It’s strange how we notice when things start looking a little outdated, even with our homes. One day, I looked around the neighbourhood and realized my roof didn’t quite fit in anymore. All the other houses had newer, cleaner designs, and mine was clearly showing its age. It’s not something we think about every day, but when you see your home looking out of place, it’s hard to ignore.
That’s why we’ve put together this blog—to give you the latest trends in home design and roofing so you can stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s updating your roof or choosing the best cladding, these are the choices that not only make your home look great but are built to last for years to come.
Let’s explore the top three trending roofing options for 2024, providing a quick glossary of what makes each one stand out.
- Metal Roofing
- Fibreglass Shingles
- Torch-On & Membrane Roofing
1. Metal Roofing
Why It’s Trending: Metal roofs are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for homeowners on Vancouver Island due to their exceptional durability and low maintenance. They can last over 50 years and are incredibly resilient against the island’s wet and windy climate. Metal roofs also offer superior energy efficiency, reflecting solar heat and reducing energy costs, which aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly home solutions. This makes them a top pick for those who want sustainability and longevity in their roofing.
Benefits:
- Energy Efficiency: Reflects heat, lowering cooling costs in summer.
- Sustainability: Often made from recycled materials and fully recyclable at the end of their life.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Available in various colors and styles to suit modern and traditional homes.
Expected Cost: Prices typically range from $12 to $18 per square foot, depending on the type of metal and finish you choose, which includes both materials and installation
Roofing Material Market Share Trends in Vancouver Island (2018-2024)
As seen in the graph above, metal roofing has steadily increased in popularity from 2018 to 2024, significantly gaining market share compared to other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, fibreglass shingles, and torch-on roofing. This growth is largely due to the durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability benefits that metal roofing offers, especially in wet, windy climates like Vancouver Island.
Comparison with Other Roofing Materials:
- Asphalt Shingles: Traditionally, asphalt shingles dominated the market due to their lower cost and ease of installation. However, their shorter lifespan (20-30 years) and vulnerability to weather damage have led to a gradual decline in use. Homeowners are shifting away from asphalt as they seek more durable and eco-friendly options.
- Fibreglass Shingles: While fibreglass shingles are gaining popularity as a more durable and weather-resistant option than asphalt, they still don’t match the lifespan and efficiency of metal roofs. They are more affordable than metal but don’t offer the same long-term savings in energy efficiency or maintenance.
- Torch-On Roofing: Typically used for flat or low-slope roofs, torch-on roofing has maintained a steady presence but hasn’t experienced the growth that metal roofing has. It’s a good option for specific types of roofs, but metal roofing’s versatility for both sloped and flat structures makes it a more attractive option for many homeowners.
Why Metal Roofing Is Becoming the New Normal:
The rise of metal roofing is driven by its ability to withstand harsh weather, its long-term energy savings, and its sustainable profile. As more homeowners focus on eco-friendly solutions and low-maintenance materials, metal roofing has become a top choice, making homes not only more resilient but also more energy-efficient. This trend is expected to continue, with more homes opting for metal roofs in the next 5-10 years.
2. Fibreglass Shingles:
Fibreglass shingles are rapidly gaining popularity as a durable, affordable alternative to traditional asphalt shingles, especially in regions like Vancouver Island where weather resistance is a major concern. They offer several key benefits, such as being lightweight, weather-resistant, and lasting longer than asphalt shingles. In wet climates like Nanaimo, their ability to resist mould and rot makes them an increasingly attractive option for homeowners
Why Fibreglass Shingles Are Trending
- Durability: Fibreglass shingles are more resistant to weather damage compared to asphalt, especially in regions with frequent rain and wind like Vancouver Island. This makes them more suitable for long-term use, with a lifespan of 25-30 years, compared to the shorter life span of asphalt shingles.
- Affordability: Despite being more durable than asphalt, fibreglass shingles remain cost-effective. They provide excellent value for money, costing around $4 to $6 per square foot installed, making them a budget-friendly choice for homeowners looking for durability without breaking the bank.
- Energy Efficiency: Fibreglass shingles are also designed to reflect heat better than traditional asphalt, which can help in reducing cooling costs during warmer months. This feature makes them particularly beneficial for energy-conscious homeowners.
Comparing Fibreglass Shingles to Other Roofing Materials
While fibreglass shingles are becoming more popular, metal roofing still dominates in terms of durability and long-term investment, offering a lifespan of over 50 years with minimal maintenance. Fibreglass shingles, although more affordable, require more frequent maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than metal roofs.
Torch-on roofing, on the other hand, is mainly used for flat roofs and isn’t a direct competitor to fibreglass shingles, which are typically used on sloped roofs. Similarly, metal cladding is more for exterior protection and design aesthetics rather than replacing traditional roofing materials like shingles.
3. Torch-On & Membrane Roofing
Why It’s Trending: Torch-on and membrane roofing systems are becoming more popular, particularly for flat or low-slope roofs, because of their ability to create a waterproof, long-lasting seal. This type of roofing has become a top choice for both commercial buildings and residential flat-roof homes due to its affordability and ease of installation. The trend is especially evident in regions like Vancouver Island, where frequent rainfall makes waterproofing critical.
Benefits:
- Waterproofing: One of the main reasons torch-on roofing is gaining popularity is its superior waterproofing capabilities. In areas like Vancouver Island, where rainfall is heavy, this ensures homes remain dry, even with flat or low-slope roofs.
- Durability: These roofing systems are known for their long lifespan, typically lasting 20-30 years. The materials used (like bitumen) offer a tough, flexible barrier that can withstand the elements.
- Ease of Installation: Torch-on roofing is relatively easy to install, making it a cost-effective option for both new builds and renovations. Its ability to be applied quickly has made it attractive to contractors and homeowners alike.
- Affordability: Torch-on roofing systems are more affordable than other high-end materials like metal roofing, with installation costs ranging from $8 to $12 per square foot, depending on the size of the roof and the complexity of the job .
Comparison to Other Roofing Systems:
While metal roofing leads to longevity and overall resilience, torch-on roofing is preferred for specific roofing structures, like flat or low-slope roofs. It’s less expensive to install compared to metal roofing but does require more maintenance over the years. Fibreglass shingles, on the other hand, are designed for sloped roofs and don’t offer the same waterproofing benefits that torch-on roofing does.
As the graph shows, the demand for torch-on and membrane roofing has been steadily increasing over the years, with a projected growth rate that makes it one of the top choices for commercial and residential flat roofs in the coming years.
Torch-On & Membrane Roofing Trends in Canada: Weather Impact (2024)
4. Metal Cladding
Metal Cladding:
What It Is:
Metal cladding is a protective layer attached to the exterior of a building, offering both aesthetic appeal and structural protection. Unlike roofing, which is primarily focused on shielding the top of the building, cladding covers the vertical surfaces (walls), enhancing durability and resistance to weather.
Why It’s Trending:
Metal cladding is gaining popularity for its sleek, modern look, often used in high-end homes and commercial buildings. It’s highly durable, requires minimal maintenance, and provides excellent protection against wind, rain, and even temperature fluctuations. Its energy efficiency and long lifespan make it an attractive option for those looking to invest in sustainable and modern home designs.
Difference from Metal Roofing:
- Purpose: Metal roofing focuses on the roof’s durability and waterproofing, while metal cladding protects the building’s vertical surfaces.
- Aesthetic: Metal cladding is often chosen for its architectural style, giving homes and buildings a modern, streamlined look. Metal roofing is primarily functional, though it can also complement a building’s design.
- Installation: Cladding covers walls and is easier to customize for design purposes, while roofing must withstand more direct exposure to the elements (rain, snow, etc.).
In 2024, metal roofing, fibreglass shingles, torch-on roofing, and metal cladding are setting the standard for durability, energy efficiency, and modern design. These materials not only protect your home from the elements but also give it a sleek, updated look. If you’re considering a renovation or new build, now is the time to explore these trending options. Contact us to learn how these solutions can elevate your home’s protection and style for years to come!