Roofing Manufacturers Work on Better Roof Systems

Major manufacturers have been working on better roofing systems over the years and have determined that all of the different areas of roofing need to work together to create a quality roof. From the underlayment and shingles to starter strips and caps, when all of these are made of the same materials and work together, the homeowner will experience a better value for the expense.

Improved Roofing Materials

A good roof is a worthy investment for any homeowner since this is the one area that provides their home with the most protection. Manufacturers have taken the lead in this area by developing new and improved roof materials that can outlast the products of a few short years ago. Some of the roofing manufacturers leading these developments include:

•    GAF
•    CertainTeed
•    Iko
•    Tamco
•    Mule-Hide

Extensive research of these manufacturers has lead to the development of new roofing materials including composite roofing materials, which provide many years of service and help preserve natural resources. Green initiatives in the manufacturing of roof materials have also produced what is often referred to as “cool roofing”. This type of shingle uses reflective materials on the surface that helps reduce the amount of heat transferred into the home.

However, it isn’t just the shingles that roofing manufacturers are concerned about. Adhesive strips used on most asphalt roofing shingles are now better at maintaining a secure bond to adjacent shingles, allowing them to withstand higher velocity winds, some up to 150 miles per hour. To give the homeowner the best value for their money, roofing manufacturers also work with contractors on the proper installation of their materials to ensure correct installation.

Some manufacturers, with the help of contractors also work at recycling roofing materials to prevent them from ending up in landfills. By shredding them and turning them into useful products, they reduce the waste and have a positive environmental impact.

When developing new products, roofing manufacturers also work with other professionals in the field – such as truss manufacturers as well as metal fabricators – to ensure their products work well together. Without all of the parts working together, it won’t matter how well their shingles are made if they can’t stay on the roof as intended.

Increased Warranties

Due to the manufacturers’ initiatives, roof materials, that have been known to last up to 20 years, are now made with some promising lifetime warranties. The development of composite and synthetic roofing materials has also been a result of their work, and in most instances, better products are not that much more expensive than the older types. What the roofing manufacturers will develop in the future all depends on what the homeowners desire and demand.