Most homeowners do not realize how far roofing materials have come throughout the years. Instead, you may be more knowledgeable about interior design—about the trending colors of the kitchen or how to decorate the bathroom. Roofing trends shift just as frequently as fashion these days, and there is always something new and exciting being introduced. If you are tired of the time-honored asphalt shingle or want to make your home more futuristic, then you should consider some of the roofing trends for 2020 and beyond.
Synthetic Roofing
One of the most demanded roofing materials of 2020 is synthetics. Regardless of the region, synthetic roofing’s demand has skyrocketed. Why? Because this material is perfect for those who want the unique look of wood without compromising on durability.
Most synthetic roofing is made of plastic and rubber polymers that are blended together. This increases resistance to water and weather and increased lifespan, too. Synthetic shingles, slates, and shakes last around 50 years. This trending roofing option also comes with a Class 4 impact resistance rating—the toughest level out there.
Cool Roof Systems
In places that already get a lot of sun, those darker colored shingles are probably a terrible idea. Furthermore, all that UV exposure can degrade your current roof rapidly. Because of this occurrence, manufacturers have started putting out cool roof systems—materials that can reflect sunlight.
There are two main forms of cool roofing: reflective paint and light tiles. Both work similarly: by reflecting sunlight away from the roof to prevent heat absorption. The main advantage is the reduced cooling costs, but a roof with an extended lifespan is a nice bonus, too.
Green Roofing
Another type of roofing that has gained momentum recently is something called “green roofing.” Recently, in Denver, Colorado, an ordinance went into effect that called for every building to have at least 25,000 square feet of green roofing and/or solar roofing.
But what is green roofing? This roofing system is the most distinguishable out of all the others, because it is alive. The roofing is constructed of multiple layers containing special soil, protective mesh, waterproofed membrane, and, on top, vegetation. Green roofs can make your roof a literal garden, all the while preventing pollution and lowering your electric bill.
Silicone Roof Coating
Back in 2019, silicone roof coatings started to break into the limelight. Although this material has been around for a long time, it was not as popular as other options. Then, when it was found that silicone roof coatings can increase the lifespan of roofing and even restore the durability of older roofing, it suddenly became a sought after option for those seeking a cheaper means of re-roofing their homes.
Silicone roof coatings can also prevent water pooling and keep roofing cooler, since it lightens the color of the materials.
2020 and beyond will surely introduce more coatings like this to help home and business owners with extending the life of their residential and commercial rooftops. Silicone roof coating will also become a more attractive option for those who live in areas affected by hotter summers.
Solar Tiles and Shingles
Many homeowners and business owners have expressed an interest in solar power, and 2020 has delivered. These days, many homeowners are considering switching to solar power but are concerned about the bulky appearance and expense involved. Yet, with the introduction of things like solar-powered Tesla tiles and other photovoltaic tiles and shingles, solar roofing is becoming an increasingly viable option for residential roofing.
The cost of such materials has also gone down recently, so we expect this trend to continue. If you are getting solar shingles installed, be sure to hire only the best local roofer with experience in such trending materials.
Lighter Colors
Remember when black shingles were all the rage? Not anymore. Yes, black and gray shingles still look amazing, but with the rising global temperature, hotter summers, and pricier utility bills, homeowners are looking for every available route possible to keeping their homes cooler.
That is why 2020 is the year of colors like blues, taupe, greens, off-white, and beige. Lighter colored roofing is great for reflecting intense UV rays, but they also create a soft, more inviting exterior.
Flat Roofing
For many years, flat roofs were considered something reserved for businesses or hotter climates. Recently, though, homeowners who favor minimalism have been requesting flat roofs for their new homes. A flat roof is less expensive than those with steep slopes and can also provide flexibility of design.
For example, you could apply green roofing or solar panels to the top of the flat roof to create a mini oasis. The one downside is that flat roof systems have less drainage available, so you need to invest in a waterproof membrane to keep it safe. Perhaps the future will provide us with an answer for that!
Metal Roofs
For many years now, alternative materials for roofing have seen increased popularity. Metal roofing has not been far behind, and it is even more cost-effective in 2020. Many homeowners are discovering the aesthetic appeal of metal, as well as its functionality.
While the installation of metal roofing can be a tremendous investment, metal roofing is many times more resilient and reflective than asphalt shingles. It also does a better job at insulating a house, so you can use less energy and cut utility costs.
Follow The Trends & Modernize Your Roof
Roofing has been around as long as humans have been constructing homes, and while it has not been something that has changed much in purpose, the materials, the style, and the colors have. Whether you are in the market for a new roof and want to get inspired by the 2020 roofing trends or need something replaced or repaired, you are going to need the best local roofer to do the job.
Though trends come and go, discussing your options with reputable roofing companies can help you decide which trend is best for your home. Learn more about the latest roofing technologies and materials by getting in touch. Give us a call or fill out the contact form to find out which 2020 roofing trend is our favorite!
