Consider using the latest roofing materials to make your house stand out and stay up-to-date. An appealing, modern roofing product will also increase your resale value. Learn more about the four innovative roofing products rising in popularity in 2021.
1. Synthetic slate shingles
Synthetic slate shingles are a modern roofing material that is being used widely as an alternative to authentic slate. Synthetic slate shingles are manufactured using rubber or plastic but mimic the appearance of authentic slate shingles. For this reason, they are considered to be eco-friendly. Moreover, synthetic slate shingles come in a wide range of designs and styles and are easy to install.
Synthetic slate shingles cost $4 to $6 per square foot. This price is much lower than the cost of authentic slate shingles. Besides being cost-effective and visually appealing, synthetic slate shingles can last for around 40 to 50 years or longer if maintained properly.
2. Synthetic wood shakes
Synthetic wood shakes are perfect for people looking to give their roofs a rustic look. Synthetic wood shakes are manufactured using cypress, redwood, pine, or western red cedar trees. Vinyl cedar shake is a widely used wood shake.
Traditional wood shakes require high maintenance and are quite costly. Therefore, a wide variety of synthetic wood shakes are being introduced to the market. This innovative roofing product offers the same appealing look as the traditional wood shake did but at a more attractive price point.
3. Solar shingles
Solar shingles are the latest technology designed to mimic the appearance of asphalt shingles while generating electricity for your home. These shingles last for 25 to 30 years and deliver maximum energy output. Solar shingles continue producing electricity even after reaching their maximum life but have a reduced capacity. They look more appealing than traditional asphalt shingles and weigh less—up to 13 lbs less per square foot.
The number of solar shingles required to power your building will depend on your average energy consumption. However, even if you install only a few solar shingles, your energy bill can still be reduced by a significant amount as a result. One solar shingle can generate between 13 to 63 watts.
Unlike solar panels, solar shingles are more cost-effective, aesthetically appealing, and easy to install or remove. However, they are less energy-efficient than solar panels and require a roof slope that has high sunlight exposure. Moreover, you can expect to pay anywhere from $21 to $25 per square foot when installing solar shingles.
4. Metal shingles
Metal is widely known for its durability, low weight, resistance to mold and mildew, and recyclability. Metal shingles are another innovation designed particularly for people looking for durable shingles. These shingles are manufactured with airspace between the roof deck and the metal. This airspace helps in reflecting a great amount of heat during the summer.
Metal shingles cost between $3.50 and $6 per square foot. Although these are quite a bit more expensive than asphalt shingles, there are fewer maintenance costs and durability concerns associated with metal shingles.
5. Cool roofs
Cool roofs are designed to reflect or absorb heat, depending on the size of wavelengths your roof receives through the sun’s electromagnetic energy.
Cool roofs help to keep your home’s interior cooler by reducing the amount of heat transfer. This is done by reflecting the UV rays and infrared wavelengths received from the sun. Consequently, your HVAC is less strained, reducing your energy bills and HVAC maintenance.
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