Discovering the Evolution of Commercial Roofing
Diving into the commercial roofing history uncovers a series of major advancements in technology and design that have steadily increased the life expectancy, efficiency, and sustainability of these indispensable architectural elements. Here at Renew Home Exteriors, we pride ourselves on being well-versed in the development of roofing technology. We believe that an understanding of its evolution better equips us to provide our clients with informed, high-quality services.
Early Beginnings of Commercial Roofing
The earliest roofs were mostly composed of locally available materials. Traditional communities used leaves, straw, and mud to construct roofs for their dwellings. As civilizations progressed, so did roofing technology. The Athenians used marble tiles, the Romans employed renowned terra cotta tiles, and in Asia, bamboo and clay tiles became prevalent.
Meanwhile, the introduction of iron and steel during the industrial revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries radically transformed commercial roofing. Commercial establishments began flocking to these materials for their buildings, given their durability and resistance to fire.
The 20th Century and Bituminous Roofs
The 20th century saw another pivotal shift in commercial roofing history as advances in technology made way for more financially viable and efficient roofing materials. Bituminous roof systems, consisting of layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, became widespread during this era. The popularity of bituminous roofs can be attributed to their waterproofing properties, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness.
Advancements during this time didn’t stop at bituminous roofs. Roofing manufacturers began producing a range of synthetic rubber materials and thermoplastic membranes. These roofing materials were praised for their exceptional durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance costs.
The Impact of the Green Movement
Fast forward to the late 20th and early 21st century and the commercial roofing industry, like many others, found itself significantly influenced by the ongoing green movement. The increasing awareness of environmental conservation saw the onset of sustainable roofing systems like green roofs and solar panel roofs.
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are covered with vegetation and a growing medium, that are installed over a waterproofing membrane. These roofs offer several environmental benefits including reducing, heat, improving air quality, and creating wildlife habitats.
Solar panel roofs harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for the building. They not only reduce reliance on the grid but also significantly cut down utility costs making them an attractive choice for modern commercial establishments.
The Future of Commercial Roofing
Today, the commercial roofing industry is on the brink of another technological leap. As we look to the future, roofing materials are becoming smarter and more refined than ever before. Innovations in material sciences are making way for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly roofing options– ones that not only serve to protect the building from the elements, but also actively contribute to the building’s energy needs.
One such innovation is the photovoltaic solar panel integrated with the roofing materials. This allows commercial buildings to produce their own electricity, reducing energy costs and lowering the carbon footprint. Similarly, new cool roof technologies are being developed that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, further improving energy efficiency.
A Look Back to Shape the Future
As we at Renew Home Exteriors reflect on the commercial roofing history, we can’t help but marvel at the changes the industry has witnessed, from mud and straw to complex photovoltaic systems. These advancements have allowed us to offer durable, efficient, and sustainable roofing solutions to our commercial clients. It’s increasingly clear that a well-informed appreciation of historical advancements can be instrumental in navigating changes and setting new standards in commercial roofing.
Industry expertise coupled with a forward-thinking approach is what sets us apart at Renew Home Exteriors. We are ready to harness the knowledge of past advancements and the promise of future innovations to deliver optimal roofing solutions for our clients. This dedication is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing utmost value in all our roofing solutions, keeping us at the forefront of the industry.
