The roof and the roofing material of your home is no small matter. In today’s homes, a roof is a very multi-functional part of a home. It weather-proofs a house, provides insulation, is expected to be durable, should be environmentally friendly and sustainable and look gorgeous. The need for innovative roofing solutions has never been greater and here are a few great types that optimize both aesthetics and functionality.
Green Cottage Core Roofs
The cottage core aesthetic has been taking off for a while now and the green roof is whimsical and fairytale like. The green roof is basically when a roof is covered with rich green foliage and vegetation on purpose and some of the vegetables are regularly harvested for the kitchen. The green roof might only have foliage and flowers but it is wonderful for supporting the environment and nearby wildlife. The air quality is another factor which drives people to invest in creating a green roof since they can inhale more oxygen on a daily basis and a healthier environment is created for children, the elderly and pets.
Solar Panels
Solar paneling is a popular choice for roofing the world over especially due to more recent climate changes which are resulting in more sunlight clocked in a day. Climate changes due to the overuse of thermal fossil fuels in the past decades are catching up with the human race and resulting in longer, warmer days that cause ice to melt and flooding and unprecedented storms to occur.
Solar panels can allow for off-grid living or partial dependence on the grid. It has also been revolutionary for people living in upcycled trailers or tiny homes as it means they can stay on the move and truly live off-grid freeing themselves from exorbitant energy bills. Solar panels may not be conventionally aesthetic but for a modern home they give a spaceship like vibe, futuristic and high-value.
Rethinking Metal
A few decades ago metal shingles were very boring and most people preferred other more traditional roofing materials but now metal comes in many forms and is a popular choice due to its resilience to the elements and optimal durability. For areas where weather might be severe, metal shingles can perform well without needing extensive maintenance. Metal also comes with finishes that are designed to mimic natural materials like wood. Metal is brilliant for sloping roofs especially in areas where rain and snow is a recurrent factor and the way the metal tiles or sheets are treated they can be quite resistant to mold or rust and leakage in the house becomes less likely.
Recycled and Reclaimed Materials
The environment is forefront on everyone’s mind so building roofs from recycled or reclaimed materials is a great idea. It allows hardy, good quality materials like metal and wood to get repurposed usually at a fraction of the cost. Reclaimed materials tend to be older so the roof can end up looking more unique than the standard modern roofing materials that are available nowadays.
Glass
Glass may seem like a strange contender for a full roof but that is completely possible with the tinted, shatter proof varieties that are available now. Glass can be added intermittently to the roof in the form of stylish skylights or the entire roof can be glass. Glass is a splendid choice for homes situated in areas where there are no significant weather extremes. A glass roof allows sunlight to stream through your living spaces making them look more beautiful along with allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. A Houston commercial roofing contractor can advise you on the type of glass roof that you can install that will fit in with your house design immaculately.
The Thatched Route
Thatched roofs may seem like a rather medieval concept but they look amazing on homes that are built like homesteads or farmhouses. A thatched roof lends itself to a more ancient, natural, rustic feel that is very comforting. Water reed thatch can easily last about 30 years if it is maintained (climate factors notwithstanding), and wheat and straw can last a couple of decades. It is not the most durable roofing material but quite incomparable in terms of aesthetic. The natural insulation provided by the thatch is also hard to beat!
The Look Of Copper
Copper is an innovational roofing material that looks beyond compare and has excellent durability and weather resistance. Copper also ages naturally and looks even more stunning when some years have passed due to a hue of patina that it develops. Copper is a very expensive option for roofing and is usually chosen for more premium custom luxury homes.
Conclusion
The modern home is all about protecting the environment while still maximizing beauty and functionality. Innovative roofing solutions can make your home look beautiful while offering a host of other benefits to be enjoyed in the years to come.
