Technology in roofing is moving fast. And it’s so unique compared to other industries because roofing tech is an umbrella term for so many advancements in roofing.
New tools? Yes!
Inventive roofing materials? Yes!
Software tools? Yes!
If you want to stay in the roofing game, it's important to understand the value of each new tech feature and how it changes things for the industry.
In this blog, we’re exploring new roofing technology, including software, AI, digital tools, roofing materials, and building trends that are keeping the industry modern and fresh.
Roofing CRMs
Using a CRM - or customer relationship management software - is a great way to move away from spreadsheets and post-it notes to track jobs, collect customer information, monitor leads, and more all in one tool. But general CRMs are old school.
Today, roofing specific CRMs that are built with the unique needs of roofing companies can make a huge difference.
Using a roofing CRM can help you…
- Simplify customer relationship building by keeping customer info organized.
- Improve your sales with quicker speed-to-lead and established sales processes.
- Provide exceptional customer service with roofing-build proposals, online payments, digital estimates, and more.
- Better understand how your roofing business performs with built in reporting tools.
You can learn more about roofing CRMs here.
Satellite measurements
One of the biggest advancements in roofing technology is satellite or digital roof measurements.
These tools let roofers measure roofs and quote customers without having to actually climb on a roof. Instead, satellite images and measurement software calculate pitch, square footage, vents and chimneys, and provide an accurate estimate on roof size and material requirement.
Satellite measurements are beneficial to roofing companies because they…
- Improve safety by keeping roofers off steep or dangerous roofs
- Empower companies to provide quotes from anywhere, on the go
- Assist in speed-to-lead which is proven to help improve sales rates
- Help you stand out from the competition, and increase your perceived value
Learn more about satellite measurements here.
Solar panel shingles
Roofs with solar panels were a shock to the industry when they first launched commercially in 2005. Over time, they have become way more popular, with more manufacturers and a growingly affordable price tag.
Tiles or shingles with solar power capabilities mimic the shape and appearance of typical roofing materials and are expected to supersede the design of separate solar panels being placed on top of roofs.
Solar panel shingles may be more initially expensive compared to other solutions, but they can result in significant energy savings in the long run.
Cool shingles
No, the cool roof isn’t something dreamt up by Arthur Fonzarelli—rather, it’s a term used to describe shingles that have been designed with a reflective coating or materials that absorb less sunlight than traditional shingles. A standard roof can reach more than 150°F in the summer months. With ultra-reflective shingles, that temperature can drop by as much as 50°F. A cooler roof translates into serious energy savings and increased longevity for your air conditioning unit.
AI (artificial intelligence)
AI is a big buzz in the industry, with a lot of different tools and tech coming out that lean on AI.
AI or artificial intelligence is tech that enables computers and machines to replicate human intelligence. It allows computers to solve problems, and find solutions based on the information they have.
AI in roofing has appeared in specific tools — like Rilla that monitor and analyze in-personal sales performance — as well as more more general tools — like ChatGPT which can be used to answer more every-day questions.
AI is helping roofers work smarter and more efficiently. The key is to know the best way to use these tools, not to let them take over your job for you.
Check out our guide on using ChatGPT for roofing companies here.
Silicone roof coating
Silicone roof coating is a type of roofing technology that used to be commonly known for its use in commercial roofing. However, to extend the lifespan of their structures, a rising number of homeowners are requesting the application of silicone coating to their existing roofs.
Silicone, either in roll or spray form, is applied over an already established layer of roofing material. Silicone-based roof coatings can last up to 30 years compared to the usual 20.
Green roofing
Some may find it unusual, but maintaining a garden directly on top of a house or building has found some momentum among environmentally aware communities.
This environmentally-conscious aesthetic can be found on both residential and commercial properties. After all, who wouldn't love a product that combines beauty and functionality while benefiting the environment?
Green roofs have many benefits including:
- Natural temperature regulation, keeping buildings cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Reduce rain runoff and are better for water management.
- Decrease energy costs of buildings.
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Can look way prettier than traditional roofs — especially on large commercial buildings.
While green roofs are more expensive to install than typical low-slope roofs, they have numerous long-term benefits, including decreased energy costs, more excellent stormwater management, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Drones for roofing
Roofing companies are now using drones for roof measurements, to inspect for weather damage, and to capture images for proposals. Drones are great for roofer sto access hard-to-reach roofs, keep their inspectors safe, improve speed and accuracy of measurements, and are extremely cost-effective for speeding up quote turnaround.
You can learn more about how drones are changing things for roofers here.
Metal shingle roofing
People have long used shingles and metal roofing to cover their roofs. Metal roofing is not a new concept. However, metal shingles are a newer, more creative use of metal roofs that are growing in popularity.
Steel, aluminum, copper, and many other alloys are the primary materials used to make metal shingles and roofs. These metals are long-lasting, versatile, and highly customizable, which has aided in the broad acceptance of this type of roofing. You can easily create a range of shapes and sizes based on the design and specifications of your project.
One of the most prominent characteristics of metal roofing is its ability to shed water. It also has an extraordinarily lengthy lifespan, lasting up to 70 years if properly cared for and maintained. They're also energy efficient. In the summer, they can cut cooling expenditures by 10% to 25%. Metal is the ideal sustainable roofing alternative for optimal heat protection during the summer.
Layered roofs
Attractively layered roofs made up of various shingle colors and patterns are becoming more common these days. Silhouettes are becoming more angular and geometric, while eaves and embellishments are becoming simpler, giving them a much cleaner appearance. People see tiered roof concepts in most new architectural homes and in remodeling.
This multi-layered roof is more common than ever. It adds a unique appearance to a home, enhancing the overall style and utility of your structure without the need to construct on top of it.
Combined with more historic designs, layering roofs for a modern home is an excellent option.
Roofing tech is always changing
What’s so exciting about the changes in roofing is that our tech isn’t just about software or digital tech. Advancements in roofing material and other tech in the industry is helping to keep roofing modern.
If you're interested in learning more about roofing tech, we suggest you check out these other resources:
- Where to create QR codes for roofing — and how to use them
- 5 roof pitch calculators
- CRM for roofers: Everything you need to know
- Roofing software 101: What it is and how it will help your business
If you want to see Roofr in action, sign up for your free account or book a demo call with our team.