7 Fun & Interesting Facts About Roofing
Constructing a roof may not seem like much fun, but there are some cool facts about different materials and different types of roofs. The roofing industry has changed and evolved over many years, contributing to many interesting roof facts, some of which are listed below. Read below for more information about the roofing industry and the fun facts that come with roofing materials.
1- Flat Roofs Aren’t Totally Flat
A popular roof type in recent years is flat roofing, but there is more to it than meets the eye. One of the most interesting roof facts is that flat roofs are not completely flat because that would be extremely damaging to a home when weather conditions roll in. Flat roofs actually have a slope, although it is slight at around 1.4 inches. The slight slope helps rain and snow to drain off the roof properly, without having a steep-pitched roof that is dangerous to climb on for homeowners or roofing contractors.
2- Asphalt Shingles Are The Most Popular Roofing Option
The most popular roofing material in the United States is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles were only invented about one hundred years ago, but they are a dominant and modern material for homeowners in most climates. Over 70% of homes have their roofs covered by shingles because of the benefits they provide. Shingles are versatile, durable, inexpensive, and aesthetically pleasing.
Choosing a roofing material based on popularity may not be the best choice for every home, but shingles are popular for a reason. Choosing asphalt shingles to protect your home will help your roof last for many years to come.
3- The Largest Roof Is Over 14 Acres
One of the largest roofs in the United States is the roof of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The stadium boasts the world’s largest single-piece roof structure and they are more than just a stadium. The stadium hosts sporting events, concerts, and more under the almost 14-acre roof.
Another cool fact about this roof is that it opens and closes like a camera lens. This makes it easy for the stadium to host events during all weather conditions. The roof becomes completely hidden and the pieces lay over top of one another when it is closed. Roofs on this monumental scale are awe-inspiring to be around.
4- A Damaged Roof Will Impact Your Home Resale Value
A durable roof is important to keep your home safe and secure, so when you are selling a home, a durable roof is required to keep the market value of a home. If your roofing materials are lifting, the roofing structure is rotting, or the roof needs other repairs, this can significantly lower what your home will sell for. The value of a home is based on modern features and the quality of the home. Before selling your home, make any repairs to ensure that the new homeowners are safe and make a wise investment.
5- The Babylonians And Romans Started The Green Roof Trend
Living roofs or green roofs are gaining popularity for residential roofs, but this trend isn’t new. The ancient civilizations of the Babylonians and Romans were known to grow gardens on their rooftops. They grew crops, trees, and flowers which not only helped to beautify their spaces but improved the air quality. More plants and trees help improve the oxygen in the community, so including a green roof for your home provides a multitude of benefits.
6- Roofs Can Last Longer Than You Will Live In Your Home
A correctly installed roof will last for over 20 years, which typically is longer than residents spend in a home. A roof replacement will be common on an older home, but if you build a new home and live there for 5-10 years, you will never need to replace the roof.
How long a roof lasts will depend on the roofing materials, the home’s location, and proper maintenance. Make your roof last with proper cleaning and maintenance to lengthen the roof’s lifespan.
7- Shingles Are Recyclable
Shingles can be recycled after you remove them from your roof! This is environmentally responsible and helps reduce waste. Shingles are collected from construction sites, and leftover from roofing companies, or homeowners can turn them into a collection center. They are then sorted, cleaned, and processed depending on what the shingles are made of. The shingles are then ground down into smaller pieces and are created into new shingles.
Roofing From Glacier Roofing & Exteriors
Our roofing and exteriors experts do all we can to improve homes and businesses with durable roofing materials. Our team knows how to install and maintain different roofing materials so that your roof will last for decades. Glacier Roofing & Exteriors uses the most modern technology and roofing techniques to provide you with the best roof on the market. We hope you enjoyed learning about the roofing industry and fun facts about roofing materials! Reach out to our team to help you with your next roofing project.