Between an upswing in construction and adverse weather events around the country, roofers should have plenty of prospects for work.
According to the National Association of Homebuilders, the number of housing starts for single-family homes is expected to rise by 10 percent in 2017 and 12 percent in 2018. So, where does this leave roofing contractors? All those new homes will need new roofs. In addition, because of the increase of climate extremes around the country from intense cold fronts to snow, rain, intense heat and flooding, it means more work than ever for the already busy roofing contractor.
It’s important for a roofing contractor or an individual getting into the roofing business to maintain their license by completing continuing education courses. Finding an online contractor school makes it simple to complete those requirements without facing a disruption in licensing.
Gutters Can Do More Than Just Drain Water Away from the Building
Record droughts and concerns about water supplies are not only a problem in some states but can adversely impact home prices in some areas. Although it isn’t legal in nine states, incorporating gutters that can be used with a rainwater harvesting system to store rainwater for later use or for watering during dry periods can help a homeowner save money. Since placement or replacement of gutters is a natural part of a roofer’s job, adding expertise in the area of rainwater harvesting may become an added part of a roofing job in the future.
Standard Asphalt Shingles Versus Tile Roofs
Asphalt shingles have always been popular and will likely remain so. Easy installation, affordability, and the light weight are a strong incentive to the new homeowner or individual looking for a replacement roof. However, climate can affect the lifespan of asphalt shingles, so more and more homeowners are opting for the increased lifespan of roofing tiles, despite the increase in cost compared to asphalt. Of course, weight is a big consideration since some roofs cannot handle the weight of a tiled roof. In areas where temperature fluctuations are more common, tile roofs on new homes may become even more common as builders construct homes with more steeply pitched roofs to accommodate them.
Newer homes may learn more toward steeply pitched roofs to accommodate tile.
Learning About Solar Roofing
Inventor and entrepreneur Elon Musk is convinced that solar power is the wave of the future and that solar roofs will not only save energy but will be comprise the actual roof of new homes instead of being an add-on to existing roof systems. His announcement that solar roofing will be competitively priced with other types of roofing systems may make those who are building new homes think twice about using an older form of roofing.
Living Roofs
Green roofs are more common in Europe but more people are asking about them in the United States because of their environmental friendliness and because they can reduce summer heating bills. As an example, city hall in Chicago has a living roof. Since this type of roofing system involves layment of an impermeable membrane, a drainage system and allowance for plant roots, becoming specialized in this technology may help a roofing contractor add to his/her expertise.
Finding a Contractor School to Suit Your Educational Needs
Energy efficiency and sustainability will be in the forefront in future years in all aspects of home construction including roofing. Taking the required courses through PDH Contractor Academy can help roofing contractors by letting them take their courses in an easy-to-use format whenever and wherever the contractor has a few spare minutes. In addition, all our courses are preapproved by the state licensing board and offer cost savings, particularly when the courses are bundled. Ready to begin your journey? Browse courses by state to see if we cover your state.