Gone are the days when the main focus of roofing was to provide protection from the elements. We’re way past that point, and the industry’s focus has shifted towards innovation and sustainability.
If you’re looking to replace or upgrade your roofing system anytime soon, you have to stick around, as we’re about to discuss the latest roofing trends of the year.
Book your free roof inspection with Viking Contractors today!
7 Latest Roofing Trends You Must Know
1. Metal Roofs Are Growing in Popularity
Did you know that the metal roofing market was valued at $23.8 billion in 2020 and that it’s expected to reach $33.5 billion by 2030? That’s growth at a CAGR rating of 3.5%!
Clearly, metal roofs are becoming more and more popular, which is unsurprising considering how remarkably durable they are. You see, a metal roof has a lifespan of 40-70 years, while an asphalt roof lasts only 15-30 years.
In addition, metal roofing systems excel in terms of energy efficiency. Their ability to reflect sunlight helps keep your home cooler in the summer, which in turn reduces your energy consumption.
Now, it’s worth noting that people weren’t too crazy about metal roofing materials a few years back because of how noisy they can be, especially during heavy rainfall or snowfall. However, we’re happy to tell you that new innovations like standing seam metal roofing and acoustic underlayment have helped make metal roofs less noisy.
2. Green Roofing to Combat the Heat
Climate change has affected the roofing industry in many ways, but the most notable effect should be the shift towards green roofing, which is meant to purify the air and reduce the ambient temperature. This is done when you partially or completely cover a building’s roof with vegetation. Aside from reducing heat islands, green roofing also adds aesthetic appeal and increases energy savings.
3. Asphalt Shingles Remain Undisputed
Even though the demand for synthetic roofing materials is rising, surveys indicate that 80% of re-roofing projects in the United States are reliant on asphalt shingles. But why is asphalt such a popular roofing material?
Asphalt shingles are popular for many reasons. For starters, they’re a lot more affordable and widely available than other roofing materials. Plus, they’re easy to install/replace and are available in several styles and colors.
However, keep in mind that asphalt shingles aren’t as durable and energy-efficient as other types of roofing. On top of that, they’re also susceptible to moss and mildew growth.
4. The Rise of Flat/Low-Slope Roofs
Common among industrial and commercial properties, flat and low-slope roofing seems to be growing in popularity among homeowners. It’s actually forecasted to grow at a CAGR rate of 3.62% from 2022 to 2026.
There’s a lot to gain from a flat or low-slope roof design. First, it’s cheaper and more durable than a pitched roof. It also provides space to mount solar panels and HVAC units.
And if that’s not enough, a low-slope or flat roof design can help add space to your dwelling, as it makes for a perfect spot to hang out with your friends and family.
5. Cool Roof Technology (White Roofing)
We all know how suffocatingly hot, dark roofing can be in the summer. This is because dark-colored surfaces tend to absorb more heat than light-colored ones.
Enter the concept of cool roofing, also known as white roofing!
Cool/white roofing refers to the use of naturally cool materials like metal or light-colored shingles. It can also refer to the use of reflective coatings and live vegetation (green roof).
Cool roof technology helps keep the temperature inside your property reasonable and reduces energy consumption since you won’t have to work your AC too hard. In the case of green roofs, you get to enjoy the added benefit of improved air quality since plants can absorb air pollutants such as carbon dioxide as well as produce oxygen.
6. The Use of Solar Roofing Shingles
The use of rooftop solar panels isn’t exactly breaking news. They’ve been in use in the United States since the early 1970s—over 50 years. However, the problem with solar panels is that they don’t look all that attractive on top of a typical residential property.
This is where solar shingles come in.
Much like solar panels, solar shingles use photovoltaic technology to capture sunlight and turn it into electricity. And since they look just like traditional shingles, they deliver renewable energy without taking anything away from how a traditional home looks.
7. Self-Healing Thermoplastic Roofs
Another trend that’s taking the roofing industry by storm is the use of self-healing materials, particularly thermoplastics. But what’s so special about thermoplastic shingles?
Thermoplastics are a class of polymers that soften and separate when heated. As soon as thermoplastic shingles cool down, they create new bonds that help seal scratches, scuffs, and other types of damage.
In contrast, traditional asphalt shingles experience granule loss when scratched or scuffed, and they can’t re-bond. Sadly, too much granule loss can result in cracking and dampness issues. It can also lead to UV degradation.
Easier Roofing With New Technologies
Did you know that roofing contractors nowadays use specialized drones for inspection and monitoring? What about the fact that drones are utilized to deliver roofing materials to hard-to-reach places?
Drones aside, other technologies have helped make roofing installations a breeze. This includes VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality), not to mention 3D modeling.
Wrapping Up
The roofing industry is constantly changing, with new trends making an appearance every year. By staying current on these trends, you’ll be able to make informed roofing decisions that not only preserve and increase the value of your property but also reduce your energy consumption.
Need help from a reputable roofing contractor? Book your free roof inspection today!
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