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New Roofing Technology Used in the Industry

06/01/2022

The roofing industry has long been one of the most manual and labor-intensive sectors in construction management. From installing shingles and tiles to ensuring that drainage is properly routed, a lot of time and effort goes into making sure a roof is installed correctly. 

In recent years, however, there has been a shift towards using new roofing technologies in roofing, which promises to make the process easier, faster, and more accurate.

Digital Tech in Construction and Housing

Digitalization is overwhelmingly taking most industries by storm, but it’s no secret that the construction industry has been the slowest and most hesitant in accepting and adopting new technology. 
For an industry that is so reliant on new technology for efficiency and progress, this may seem counterintuitive. However, new technology often means new expenses and new training requirements – both of which can be daunting for small construction companies. Additionally, the construction industry is highly regulated, meaning that new technology must go through a long and rigorous approval process before it can be used on construction sites.

But there are signs that the construction industry is starting to catch up with other industries when it comes to digitalization. One such sign is the increasing use of drones on construction sites. Drones are being used for tasks such as:

  • Surveying land
  • Inspecting buildings
  • Even delivering materials to hard-to-reach places

The use of drones can save time and money, and it is a sign that the construction industry is becoming more open to new technology.

Therefore, we can safely say that things are changing and that the construction industry is increasingly benefiting from new digital tools. From drones and 3D printing to new materials and apps, the new technology in roofing is changing the game. 

Construction and Roofing – New Technology Benefits 

We can say that new roofing technology has allowed for a number of benefits that are worth taking into account. For one, this new technology allows contractors to work more quickly and efficiently. This means that the project can be completed in a shorter amount of time, which is ideal for both the contractor and the customer. 

Additionally, new roofing technology makes it possible to get a higher quality finished product. This is due to the precision with which the new tools allow for work to be carried out. Finally, new roofing technology also helps to reduce waste and improve safety on job sites. This is because new tools and techniques allow for more accurate measurements to be taken, which reduces the amount of material that is wasted. 

Overall, therefore, when it comes to the construction industry, digital tech and new technology have been proven to increase:

  • Efficiency 
  • Accuracy 
  • Standards of quality 
  • Workplace safety
  • Success rates 
  • Customer satisfaction

And in addition to that, it also decreases the possibility of errors and accidents. Everything is done in a shorter amount of time, and all of it, in turn, results in a lower overall cost of the project.

Advances in Roofing Technology

Digital tech and digitalization, in general, have proven helpful in nearly every aspect of construction – from the idea’s inception and the process of designing to the construction itself and the maintenance of the building. It covers all grounds and facilitates everything from team communication and the arrangements of the project to the actual physical work of construction.

The bar has been raised very high, and demands for new technology are greater, so it is no wonder there are so many cutting-edge products on the market at the moment or in the process of development and manufacture. 

Drones, robots, 3D printing, smart technology, and different software are all making a difference in construction.

New Smart Technology And Software

Mobile devices, tablets, apps, and project management software have become an integral part of construction. They have contributed greatly to the improvement of workplace efficiency and safety. They help with and keep track of various aspects of the project – from the workers to the materials used.

The new software on the market assists in every step of the construction process, from design and pre-construction to post-construction. There are many new applications for both big and small projects for all kinds of budgets.

So, let’s take a look at some of the most significant new residential roofing technology.

Advanced Roof Technologies: What’s New & Must Have

  • Building Information Modelling

BIM, for example, represents a key change. It is short for Building Information Modelling, software that replaces all unnecessary paper, such as blueprints, drawings, and all other paperwork. 

BIM is a process that helps construction professionals to more accurately plan and execute projects. It involves creating a digital model of a building or part of a building, such as a roof, which can be used to track every element of the construction process. This allows for greater accuracy in planning and scheduling, as well as reducing the margin for error on site. 

BIM also makes it easier to coordinate between different trades and disciplines, as everyone can refer to the same model. In recent years, BIM has become increasingly popular in the construction industry as more firms recognize the benefits that it can offer. 

With it, everything is digitalized and stored in one place, accessible to everyone at any time. All the information and all the participants of the project are connected better, which makes collaboration, communication, and coordination much easier.

  • Smart Vests and Helmets

It can also be connected to other smart technology such as smart vests and helmets. According to Fortified Roofing, a roofing company in NJ, they can be used to track the well-being of a worker – their temperature, heart rate, and overall physical condition, or for different kinds of measurements at a job site using built-in sensors. 

The software can then collect and analyze data from the vests and helmets about the workers’ health, as well as keep track of the project’s developmental stages and results, and estimate and prevent hazardous situations. They help keep the entire process organized, safe and successful.

  • Sensor Technologies

When it comes to sensor technologies, there are also many ways of surveying and monitoring the site as efficiently as possible, as well as keeping track of workers, equipment, and construction phases. 

This can all be done through drones, GPS tracking, video surveillance, and even mobile devices. What it includes is everything from securing the perimeter when it is unsupervised, at night, for example, to surveying the site and gathering information on workers, different resources, and equipment. The more detailed information gathered and analyzed, the better the overall quality of the end result.

Among this new sensor tech, drones stand out as one of the most exciting new technologies in roofing. Drones can be used for a variety of tasks, from surveying the site before work begins to assessing progress during and after installation. They can also be used to take measurements, which allows for greater accuracy when it comes to ordering materials. In addition, drones can be equipped with thermal cameras, which can help to identify areas of heat loss and potential leaks.

  • 3D Printers and Scanners

With 3D printers and scanners, it is possible to build actual or virtual models. Models can be built in different stages of construction, for comparison purposes, for analysis, to check for oversights, reduce the possibility of mistakes and future corrections. This is very significant and important since it can reduce the time and cost of construction.

In roofing specifically, 3D printing technology is being used to create custom-fit shingles and tiles, which means that there is no wasted material. In addition, 3D printing can be used to create prototypes of roofs, which can then be tested for durability and performance before being installed on a real home.

  • RFID tags 

RFID (radio frequency identification) tags are also being used more and more in roofing. These tags are placed on materials during manufacturing, and they contain information about the product, such as size, color, and type. This information can then be read by a scanner on the job site, which helps to ensure that the correct materials are being used.

Digitalization and New Technologies in Other Aspects of the Roofing Business

Digitalization is also having an impact on the way that construction companies are marketing themselves. More and more construction companies are using social media and other digital channels to reach new customers and market their services. This is a trend that is likely to continue as the construction industry becomes more comfortable with digital technology.

Additionally, many construction companies are now using data analytics to better understand their customers and tailor their services to meet their needs.

Modern Roofing Materials in 2023

When it comes to developments and trends in the roof industry, storm damage and energy efficiency are at the forefront. Many modern residences have solar shingle technology because of the importance of using renewable energy sources. On the flip side, incorporating composite materials can raise the roofing cost as they require specialized roofing techniques.

Green Roof  

Green roofs are sustainable and innovative roofing solutions that are aesthetically superior to more conventional options because the vegetation can flourish with a green roof. Green roofs need a root barrier, growing medium, waterproof membrane, and drainage system to function properly. 

Metal Roof  

Metal roofs, available in a wide range of colors and styles, are increasingly being used by the roofing industry. They are long-lasting and provide security to the structure of the home. Metal roofs will keep the interior of a home at a constant temperature by deflecting the sun’s heat. A metal roof offers an excellent alternative for those looking to save money on their home’s heating and cooling bills.

Tile Roof  

Due to its affordability and aesthetic appeal, the use of tile roofs is experiencing a significant increase in popularity. Concrete tiles have emerged as popular products in the roofing industry due to their durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal, making them a reliable option for homeowners seeking both style and resilience. Tile roofs have a lifespan that is up to 25 years longer than asphalt shingles, which only endure for 15 years.

Slate Roof  

Because they are regarded to be the most durable, slate roofs are a popular choice among roofing contractors and homeowners alike. In addition, slate is the most expensive choice when it comes to roofing products; nevertheless, these roofs are designed to survive for many years, which means that you could end up saving money in the long run by using slate.

What’s New in Residential Roofing Materials 

Composite roofing materials and siding have introduced a range of sustainable options, such as solar reflective shingles and eco-friendly composite sidings, revolutionizing the construction industry’s approach to energy efficiency and environmental impact.

The digital component of technological progress is not always necessary. Along with the administration of work and the promotion of one’s own roofing talents to a large number of people, new developments in roofing materials are constantly appearing on the market.

Asphalt Shingles

For instance, a roofer can increase the performance of a new roofing system by using high-performance asphalt shingles. Not only are asphalt shingles affordable, but they offer a wide variety of benefits. For example, asphalt shingles can withstand high winds and can be easily installed, among many other things.

Metal Roofs

New technologies in metal roofing have introduced advanced features such as solar panel integration, cool roof coatings, and innovative insulation systems, revolutionizing the industry by enhancing energy efficiency, sustainability, and overall performance.

More New Roofing Technologies in Metal Roofs 

New technologies in metal roofing include advancements in weather-resistant coatings, improved fastening systems, and the incorporation of smart sensors, all aimed at enhancing durability, energy efficiency, and ease of use for both homeowners and construction professionals. These innovations have transformed the metal roofing industry, providing a wider range of options that combine aesthetic appeal, longevity, and sustainable features to meet the evolving needs of modern construction.

Rubber Roofs

Recent advancements in rubber roofing technology for residential roofs have introduced innovative features such as self-adhesive membranes, synthetic rubber compounds with enhanced durability, and improved insulation properties. These advancements provide homeowners with reliable, long-lasting, and energy-efficient solutions for their home’s roofing needs.

What Does the Future of Roofing and Construction Look Like?

Overall, the use of new technologies in roofing is leading to greater efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. While there is still a lot of manual labor involved in this sector, the use of these new technologies is making the process easier and more streamlined. In the future, we can expect to see even more amazing innovations in this field.

While many in the construction industry have traditionally been wary of and resistant to new technologies, improvements and better results are not lacking. Interest is growing, and awareness of the many benefits of technology is increasing.

Digitalization is revolutionizing the construction industry, and those companies that embrace it will be the ones that succeed in the new economy. New roofing technology is one example of how digital tech is changing the construction landscape – for the better. 

Thanks to new advancements in roofing materials and installation techniques, roofs are now more durable and longer-lasting than ever before. And thanks to digital tools such as drones and 3D printing, roofs can be installed faster and more efficiently than ever before. 
Therefore, for roofing and construction companies, investing in new roofing technology is a no-brainer. Not only will it save them money in the long run, but it will also give them a competitive edge in the marketplace.