Shaking up roofing standards

By Marco Industries.

State scrutiny of asphalt shingles could open new doors for the roofing industry.

If you make your living on rooftops, the winds of change may be blowing straight at you. With asphalt shingles under scrutiny for their underperformance in hurricanes and tropical storms, state officials across the country are eyeing tougher standards and possibly steering homeowners toward pricier, more durable materials. Marco Industries highlights how these shifts could disrupt traditional practices. For roofers, that means more than just switching supplies. It’s about rethinking your business model before policy shifts and having Mother Nature do it for you.

Asphalt shingles cover over 70% of Gulf Coast homes due to their affordability and ease of installation. However, their performance during hurricanes and tropical storms has raised concerns. While many asphalt shingles are rated to withstand winds up to 110 mph, their durability decreases over time and older shingles often fail under the strain of severe weather. These failures contribute to frequent roof replacements and exacerbate the insurance challenges homeowners face.

In response to these issues, officials are advocating for more durable roofing materials. If you work in regions prone to severe weather, now’s the time to get familiar with stronger alternatives.

Metal roofs are known for exceptional durability and can withstand higher wind speeds and last longer than asphalt shingles. While installation costs are roughly 65% higher than asphalt shingles, their longevity and resistance to extreme weather often make them a worthwhile investment for homeowners in storm-prone areas.

Ceramic or concrete tile roofs offer impressive wind and fire resistance and can last over 50 years. However, they are heavier than other options, sometimes requiring structural reinforcement. Tile roofing typically costs about 50% more than asphalt shingles upfront.

While adopting more resilient roofing materials sounds great, the higher upfront costs are certain to cause resistance among property owners. There are initiatives aimed at reducing the financial barriers while promoting long-term savings through lower insurance premiums and maintenance expenses. But what about you, the roofer? How will this impact your business?

As the roofing market evolves, you’ll need to adapt. Transitioning to materials like metal and tile requires specialized training, so consider investing in certifications that can give your business a competitive edge. While this can provide new opportunities, it can also present a drawback in that the longer-lasting materials may lead to fewer replacement projects. Diversifying your services to include inspections, maintenance and storm-proofing upgrades could help offset this.

It’s a pivotal moment for roofers and for roofing pros in states who understand the impact it could have on them (once a domino falls …). Our advice: stay informed about potential regulatory changes and market trends so you can not only weather this transition but thrive. By educating your clients about the benefits of durable roofing options and proactively offering these materials, you can position your business as a leader in a changing landscape.

Original article and photo source: Marco Industries