Team Build Construction

Modern Roofing Materials Guide

Modern roof guide
Metal roof

When it comes to roofing, there are several different materials that are often used. Ideally, you want your roof to be aesthetically pleasing whilst also being able to protect your home from various weather conditions. Of course, everyone wants their roof to fit in with their home design, but the priority is usually ensuring your roof reflects the surrounding environment. 

If you’re looking at replacing your current roof, this guide should be able to provide you with some food for thought, as we go through some of the different types of modern roofs. 

Different types of modern roofing materials

Metal

Metal has become a more popular material for roofing in recent years, which is mainly down to its durability and weather resistance. In terms of lifespan, metal roofing such as copper can last between 40 and 60 years before the colour starts to turn. Metal is also quite lightweight and has the flexibility to work with a variety of different roof shapes and sizes. 

Certain metals are available in a variety of different colours, such as zinc and steel roofs. Aesthetically, metal can give your property a more contemporary feel. Style-wise, as metal can be quite flexible, there are a number of different popular designs – monopitch, double-pitch and flat roofs are all common choices that suit different styles of properties. 

Single-ply

Single-ply is often a popular choice for modern roofing as they are relatively easy to install. Single-ply PVC are hot welded onto a flat roof deck which creates a solid waterproof covering. In addition to being waterproof, single-ply PVC is also resistant to UV radiation and is highly durable. 

Single-ply PVC gives off a sharp and modern look to your roof, and they can mimic the aesthetic of copper, steel and zinc roofs by using standing seams. 

Green roofs

This isn’t likely to be an option for everyone, but if it’s feasible, green roofs can be an innovative modern cover for your property. Green roofs work really well with properties that can blend into landscapes. However, you’ll need to have a stronger roofing structure to be able to handle the heavy weight of a green roof. They’ll also likely require a lot more maintenance and need attending to on a regular basis. 

Tiles

Tiles are arguably one of the most flexible roofing materials available, with both clay and slate tiles being viable options for modern roofing. Clay tiles are often a popular choice thanks to the array of shades, textures and profiles which work well with brick and render. Slate has a cool crisp finish that is available in a variety of colours including black, blue, green and grey. 

Both materials are natural, durable and fire-resistant. Despite this, they can sometimes be prone to cracking and breaking. Clay or slate tiles may not be suitable for all roofs however, and neither material is usually suitable for low roofs due to their relatively heavy weight. 

Modern roof profiles

Roof profile

Some particular styles of roofs have become more popular in recent times, and a modern-roof shape can add a more contemporary feel to your home whilst creating a 21st century aesthetic. Some of the most common modern roof profiles include the following: 

Monopitch: Also known as a shed roof, pent roof or a lean-to roof, these single slope-styled roofs have become more commonplace on houses and properties in recent years. Monopitch roofs can be ideal for installing solar panels, which has made the style more commonplace in recent years as more people switch to renewable energy. 

Double Pitched: A double pitched roof is the most commonly used style. Typically, a double pitch describes a roof that makes a triangle consisting of two surfaces which are connected at the top. Double pitched roofs give off the traditional feel, whilst still looking aesthetically pleasing in the modern age. 

Flat: Traditionally found on larger buildings, flat roofs have started to be a popular choice of roofing for modern homes. With a variety of different materials that can be used, flat roofs can be quite flexible, however, they’re not suitable for every building. Generally speaking, modern materials which are impermeable to water have made flat roofs a viable option for both houses and commercial buildings

Whilst there are a number of different materials and styles to choose from when it comes to roofing, you’ve got to choose something which will work well with your property. Of course, functionality should come first, but there are many options which are both high quality and aesthetically pleasing.