While roof styles tend to be very classic and functional, there are some really interesting house trends now that show that people are changing the way they look at roofs. You may want to consider these if you’re in the process of renovating or replacing your roof. Residents in in the Big Apple and some of the most polluted areas in the US are beginning to realize that construction that pollutes the environment is not a winning options. That's right, the "Go Green" mentality has penetrated the world of build and as we will see in this article, roofing.
Gutters used to have a very straightforward and practical purpose of channeling rainfall off the roof so it doesn’t cause rust, mold or leaks.
But as people become more environmentally aware, gutters have a new and more important role of collecting rainwater for later use. This is especially important in areas where there are water shortages especially in the hot summer months. When this happens, the rainwater becomes a “personal reserve” for cleaning or watering the plants and lawn.
Asphalt shingles are still one of the most commonly used roofing materials because of the affordable price point, easy installation and weight. Unfortunately, asphalt tiles tend to deterioriate quickly and need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years.
However, people are now willing to pay more for durability. There’s been an increase in the sales of slate tiles (a very expensive tile that can last for almost a hundred years if it’s made of high quality) as well as mid-range tiles that mimic the look of slate but can last longer than asphalt.
Solar panels – once too expensive for anyone except large businesses or the very rich -- are becoming more affordable and commercially viable. People are investing in them and having them installed on flat roofs. They do this to save on energy costs and also to help the environment. (Yes, there’s a whole new movement towards eco-friendly roofing know how!)
If you want to use solar panels, you need to talk to a contractor who will look at your roof and see if it is structurally sound. You may need to change your roofing materials so they’re strong enough to carry the weight of the panels.
There’s a rise in flat roofs because people want to convert their roof decks into urban gardens. This is part of a health trend towards natural, organic ingredients. They want to know their fruits and vegetables don’t have pesticides or chemical fertilizers, but the only way to be 100% sure is to grow your own. If you don’t have the luxury of having a large yard, a rooftop garden is the next best alternative.
Rooftop gardens will also require special roofing materials that will help prevent water from seeping into your ceiling.
These trends all show that roofs aren’t just a way to keep out the elements. Even New York residents who are light years away from a pollution free city are starting to appreciate the "Green Construction" wave. People are seeing how they can be used to harvest solar energy and water, and even provide a way to grow vegetables and fruits right on top of your home. Contact professional roof installation expert if you’re interested in doing the same to your house or office building.
NY Roofing is the premier residential & commercial roofing service in Downtown Brooklyn. We are GAF certified Master Elite Contractors. We provide full repair & install solutions for our clients. Contact as now for a free estimate.
