The economy has endured a lot over the past year. However, the uptick in certain trends gives new hope to those who work in the roofing industry. In spite of the initial blow of COVID-19, professional roofers have sustainability efforts to thank for their field’s progression in 2021.
2021 Is the Year of Sustainability Through Roofing Structures
Enlightenment regarding global warming and climate change have led property developers and property owners alike to opt for sustainable roofing options. Although the roofing industry as well as many other families and businesses suffered from the economic shutdown, change for the better is on the horizon. Currently, the market for roofing materials is at $8.3 billion worldwide. However, it’s expected to increase through 2024 and beyond.
Eco-friendly roofs are the perfect way for people to shrink their carbon footprint. Since sustainable roofs have less toxic chemicals and carbon emissions, it leads to energy conservation and cost efficiency. Because the building’s roof uses solar energy to maintain comfortable indoor climates, property owners enjoy reduced utility bills and without turning the air conditioner to the max.
For these reasons and others, sustainable roofing options are among the highest-ranking roofing trends of 2021. These options include:
Solar Panels
Solar roofing systems are rapidly gaining popularity. The solar industry is becoming more efficient as technology advances. Therefore, this roofing option has evolved from bulky fixtures to sleek solar shingles and solar films. Additionally, solar roofing offers a futuristic and aesthetically appealing image to virtually any building. To incentivize this environmentally friendly approach, some states offer discounts and special rates on insurance to building owners who have solar panel roofing.
Metal Roofing
While metal roofing has been around for a while, it hasn’t always been for all building structures. Initially, metal roofing was only used for industrial properties and barns. Now, it’s used for residential buildings, as well. Metal offers curb appeal and versatility since it comes in many styles and colors. Plus, since it’s long-lasting and durable, it’s recommended over asphalt shingles. Thanks to its reflective capabilities, metal returns UV rays to the atmosphere, instead of absorbing them—this keeps the building cool indoors, and adds extra insulation in the winter.
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Synthetic roofing materials are on the rise, as well. They’re lightweight, durable, and withstand the harshest climates. These are made of strong and highly-effective materials, like polyurethane, which is an incredibly strong plastic. Synthetic roofing materials come in many shapes, sizes, and colors as well. Plus, they’re reliable and resilient in all kinds of weather. They can be painted over with reflective coatings that protect the structure from degradation, which also contributes to their sustainability.
