Are you in the market for a new roof?
New trends in roofing this year have seen a real surge in eco-friendly and green roofing materials and building practices. There’s also emphasis on durability, and long-lasting roofing options, as well as a move towards stylish and modern roofs that have character.
If you’re looking for some ideas for your new roof, or just interested in keeping up-to-date on the latest trends in building –why not have a look at some of these growing trends?
Solar-Ready Roofs
The purpose of solar-ready roofs is to make the installation of solar panels much easier and more affordable should the homeowner decide to install solar panels later on. Solar panels are quickly growing in popularity as more homeowners are choosing them to help reduce their need to rely on the electric grid, and helping them to cut energy costs and reduce carbon emissions. It’s interesting to note, that since January 1, 2014, The California Energy Commission has required that all new residential and commercial buildings in the state of California have solar-ready roofs.
Solar Roof Shingles
Another trend that’s picking up speed is solar roof shingles. Solar roof shingles are a popular option for modern homes. While traditional solar panels are bulky, solar roof shingles look like roof shingles. They provide power for the home, without distracting from its beauty. A great option for those who are interested in solar, but hesitant to implement something that may distract from the exterior of their home.
Asphalt Shingles
The Ohio-based market analyst Freedonia Group says that the demand for asphalt shingles is expected to grow in 2015 and beyond. Composite shingles and asphalt shingles with cooling granules that make them more energy efficient are also gaining popularity across the country. Laminated asphalt shingles are an especially popular shingle option and are expected to total 85 percent of shingle demand in 2015. Laminated shingles are more durable, and are able to last for twice as long as traditional asphalt shingles. They also look great, and are available in a wide range of style and color options.
Light-Colored Roofs
Roofs have lightened up! Light-colored roofs are gaining popularity, because lighter colors help the roof to absorb less heat from the sun. Light blues, grays, browns, and even silver and whites are all great colors that reflect the sun, and absorb less heat. In addition to lighter colored roofing materials, reflective roof coatings can also help reduce heat buildup and make the interior of the house more comfortable while reducing energy costs.
Attractive Metal Roofing
According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, forty-seven percent of all households are ready to consider metal roofing. Metal roofing appears to be growing in popularity, and for good reason. Metal roofs can last two or three times longer than asphalt roofs. They also can withstand weather, are energy efficient, and are extremely low maintenance. They’re also environmentally friendly, often made from recycled materials and manufacturing them leaves a minimal carbon footprint. They’re also able to cut energy costs by up to 20 percent. Metal roofing has also come a long way over the years, and is available in a range of colors, and attractive roofing options, including metal roofing that is designed to resemble the look of shingles.
Environmentally Friendly Roofs
Environmentally friendly roofs are in demand. Everything from roofs made from recycled materials to energy efficient roofing materials are growing in popularity. Demand is also supported by new legislation that passes, which mandates the use of environmentally friendly materials and practices.