As resources become scarcer, the need for alternative energy sources has become a necessity. One of the most popular options is solar. Progressive homeowners concerned about the environment – and perhaps escalating energy costs – are installing solar roof shingles.

What are Solar Roof Shingles?

Solar roof shingles are a thin film of photovoltaic cells constructed to look like regular roof shingles. They are dark-blue, dark-purple and/or black in color. For pitched roofs, solar panels come as individual tiles or small shingles. For flat roofs, solar roof shingles are constructed as large, continuous sheets.

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The thing that impacts the appearance of your house the most is its exterior siding. In addition to selecting a siding for its aesthetic qualities, more homeowners are looking for environmentally friendly options as well. Following are four eco-friendly, exterior siding options.

• Cedar Shingle Siding: This nature-friendly exterior siding is made from natural cedar. It is known for having the look of real wood and is commonly referred to as “shakes.” It can be stained, which many do in earthy colors like warm browns and cooling grays. These meld beautifully with natural surroundings. Staining cedar shingle siding, as opposed to painting it, has two benefits, ie; (i) it minimizes peeling; and is (ii) more environmentally friendly than using some paints.

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