The construction industry is continually innovating to use sustainable and durable building materials, including for new and replacement roofs. Here are some of the trends in roofing materials.
Innovation in Roofing Materials
The construction industry is continually innovating to use sustainable and durable building materials, including for new and replacement roofs. Here are some of the trends in roofing materials.
Solar Panels
Rooftop solar panels are becoming increasingly common across the country. In addition to being a renewable energy source, solar panels can help reduce energy bills. According to one study, installing solar panels can save the average household around $1,500 per year. As the cost of installing solar panels continues to fall, more people are making the transition.
Environmentally Friendly Roofing Materials
Eco-friendly roofing options to reduce an individual's carbon footprint include:
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- Rubber roofing: Old tires have been repurposed as roofing material. A rubber roof is resistant to natural elements and has a long life span.
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- Green roofing: A green roof is a lightweight, layered roofing system that allows plants to grow on top of a waterproofed substructure with little maintenance.
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- White roofing: A white roof can help keep a house cool. White roofs (or lighter-colored roofs) reflect more light and do not retain as much heat. As a result, a home will stay cool, and the owners will save money on air conditioning.
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- Blue roofing: A blue roof is intended to capture and temporarily store rainwater. Because the control devices that collect rainwater and roof drainage can be managed and adjusted to be most effective, automated roof runoff management systems are also known as active blue roofs. Blue roof systems are sometimes combined with green roof systems to make irrigation and plant watering much more intuitive and effortless. These systems aid in preventing sewer water overflow in densely populated or under-irrigated urban areas, keep buildings naturally cooler, and provide fresh rainwater for various uses.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs and roofing panels are popular options due to their fire resistance. Metal roofing also protects against extreme winds, including gusts of up to 140 miles per hour. They won't crack, corrode, or break when subjected to high-speed winds. Plus, metal roofs are attractive. Tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel are available in various colors, finishes, and shapes. Standing seam metal roofs, a type of metal roofing product, are also available.
In addition, metal roofs are considered a more sustainable alternative to asphalt shingles. They consist of at least 25% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable. Metal roofs also reflect solar radiant heat rather than absorbing it, reducing cooling costs by up to 25% year-round, especially during the long summer days.