What’s Hot in Roofing Innovation in 2024

Some of these trends may not be new, but advancements help expand how residential roofers can use technology to keep projects running smoothly and safely and customers happy.  

Here are four tech trends from experts across the industry to help set your company apart from the rest. 

1 | Self-healing roofs. 

According to Baker Roofing, self-healing materials use solar heat to repair small cracks and other damages on their own, prolonging a roof’s lifespan while helping owners save money on maintenance. This is particularly helpful when working with customers seeking the biggest return on their investment and who want simple, cost-effective upkeep.  

Similarly, according to RoofSnap, roofs treated with new coating technologies make it difficult for water and dirt to stick. The water-repellent coating prevents water buildup that can create damaging mildew and makes it easy for dirt to be washed away in the rain—effectively making the roof self-cleaning,  the roofing technology company claims.   

2 | Advanced solar shingles and panels. 

Modern solar shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of regular asphalt and tile shingles, allowing for smoother integration into the roof without the visual disruption often associated with traditional solar panels, says OneClick Contractor, an exteriors software platform developer.  

The cell density in a solar roof has also grown, enabling solar panels to convert more sunlight to electricity, according to an article for Roofing Contractor from Bone Dry Roofing. Because of this advancement, the Midwestern contractor says, fewer panels need to be installed, and more power is generated. 

3 | Impact resistance and resilient materials. 

With more frequent extreme inclement weather the norm, the demand for resilient roofing materials is growing and will likely continue in coming years, says Baker Roofing, which offers services from Pennsylvania to Florida. Resilient roofing materials are designed to withstand severe weather conditions like high winds, hail and heavy rain, and technological advancements have allowed fabricators to add rubber-based polymers to asphalt builds to increase durability, according to 1-800-HANSONS, an exteriors contracting firm in the Midwest. This adds flexibility and allows asphalt shingles to resist impact “in the coldest of conditions.”  

4 | Technology integration for maintenance and safety. 

According to Bone Dry Roofing, drones offer precise measurements, while augmented reality technology provide better 3D renderings to visualize roofing projects. Drones also eliminate the need for inspectors to climb ladders and walk on potentially hazardous roofs, according to All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters, an Ohio contractor. Their advanced cameras and sensors provide a detailed view of the roof, capturing images from various angles and heights in less time and with fewer inherent safety risks than traditional inspections. 

Artificial intelligence is also being used for preventative maintenance, according to OneClick Contractor; for example, it can predict when a roof might need work, so homeowners can spot problems and call their contractor before the damage becomes larger and more costly to address.  

Additionally, according to Baker Roofing, smart roofs are equipped with sensors that monitor the surface condition and exterior weather patterns and can integrate with home automation systems to adjust ventilation as needed—helping to prevent humidity damage and lower energy bills.