From Guest Blogger Ian Pearson: Make Your Roof Stand Out Among Your Neighbors, and Make It Eco-Friendly
Installing a new roof is one of those investments which only happens once or twice during a lifetime. A properly installed roof functions not only as a protection against the elements, but is also considered as a way to raise your home’s curb appeal. There are many different factors contributing to your home’s curb appeal, such as the yard, doors, windows, siding and the overall exterior. But none of them is as easily noticed and as significant as the roof. That said, here are 5 ways to make your new roof stand out and be the talking point of the whole community.
Materials
Choosing the right roofing material is important, as every home has a specific architectural style. Due to its availability and low purchasing and installing costs, most homeowners go for asphalt shingles. They can withstand extreme weather and require little maintenance. Wood shakes are an excellent pick for those who are into a more natural look and with proper maintenance, they can actually last longer than asphalt shingles. The most popular choice are, of course, the tiles. They are energy-efficient and very durable and come in a variety of colors and textures. Metal is ideal for reflecting heat and can handle itself well in extreme weather. Although it’s the most expensive option of all, it generally lasts longer than any roofing material.
Color
When it comes to choosing the color of your roof, the most important thing is to have it match the rest of the house and the overall architectural style. Having that in mind, lighter colors create the illusion of size, making your house appear bigger. Alternatively, you can use lighter shades to accentuate a particular feature of the house. Darker colors make the house appear smaller than it actually is, so be careful with them. Whichever color you end up choosing, have in mind that color looks more intense during the day, so make sure to check how they look under direct sunlight.
White roofs
White, or cool roofs have been gaining popularity as of late, especially in warmer climates. They are made using light materials which have a good solar reflectance. This means that they reflect both visible, as well as infrared light. With high reflectance, these roofs keep the house and the building surrounding it a lot cooler than a darker shade roof would. They come in a number of different forms, including asphalt shingles, single-ply membranes, metal roofing and as special paint which can be applied to most surfaces. Although they are not as aesthetically pleasing as other types of roofs, it’s fairly affordable and energy efficient solution for the majority of households.
Garden roof
A bit more extravagant when compared to standard roofing options, garden or green roofing is a great way to send a strong environmental message. You can either completely cover the roof with greenery or create small patches of grass and plants. Ideal solution for sustainable living advocates, a properly maintained green roof can last for generations. When installed correctly, they are completely leak-free but do require constant watering. They are generally used in damp, moist environments with moderate rain. Those living in hotter environments need to be careful, as green roofing can easily be dried out by the sun, so try to maintain and water it regularly.
Smog Eating Roof Tiles
We have roofing solutions which keep us cool, harness electricity, produce oxygen and now we have tiles which reduce pollution. The technology used in producing them is the same one that major cities are incorporating into their roads. The tiles are treated with a substance called titanium dioxide, which, when exposed to ultraviolet rays actively removes nitrogen oxide emissions directly from the air. These gasses are known to aggravate asthmatic conditions, which makes these tiles a dream come true for those suffering from frequent asthma attacks. Eating smog aside, this tiles can withstand serious weather conditions and prevent moss and mold from growing.
Solar panels
Most people complain about the appearance of solar panels, particularly their size and inability to be properly incorporated into any home design solutions. However, the big and bulky solar panels are the thing of the past. Today, we have solar roof shingles, which can easily be integrated into your existing roofing option. They come in a number of different profiles, shapes, and sizes which could be adapted to most roof designs. However, there are some solar panels which can’t be as easily adapted, which is something you should consider before investing your entire budget.
Although considered to be a hefty investment, solar panels harness the sun’s energy which can later be used to power the entire household. Some solar panels may be easy to install simply following the instructions, but some are a completely different story. This is why roof restoration Sydney experts recommend that you consult a professional service before you go all out and spend a lot of money on something you have no idea of how to install.
There are numerous roofing options available for purchase. Some are more traditional, while others require having a more open mind and larger pockets. Whichever you choose, it’s important to invest into a roofing solution which complements the house’s architectural style, color, and material. If you’re unsure on which solution works best for you, then contacting a professional roofing company is your best option. They have a lot of practical experience and most consultations are generally free of charge.
