Many homeowners think of metal, tile, or plain shingles when roofs come to mind. But roofs have been built to serve multiple purposes over the centuries. People have constructed them from a variety of materials, such as volcanic ash, grass, tiles, and metal covered over with paint designed to deflect the heat. What many do not know is that there is a fun and fascinating history behind roofs.
Growing Plants and Grass on Top of a Roof
Houses in Norway hundreds of years ago looked like they were part of the hillside because builders used to layer birch bark on top of the houses and pack them with sod. Grass and flowers were planted on top of the roofs. This design was popular because it served as a good source of insulation that kept homes warm during brutal winters.
These are called green roofs, and they are growing in popularity in large cities today. They are used to keep sewers from becoming overloaded since they absorb rainwater. The grass and plants also help to keep buildings cool through the evaporation process so that there is not as much reliance on cooling systems.
Deflecting the Heat
It is no secret that dark colors suck up the heat like a sponge. Traditional dark-colored shingles can make the attic of a home heat up to well over 100 degrees. This makes HVAC systems work a whole lot harder, which significantly increases energy costs. Now, a special light-colored paint has been designed to deflect the heat away from buildings to keep cooling costs low. This paint can lower surface temperatures up to 50 degrees.
Some More Fun and Interesting Facts
People will build homes and roofs with whatever materials they have at their disposal. Houses had thick roofs constructed from seaweed on the island of Læsø in Denmark hundreds of years ago, and these were fireproof and could last for centuries. The ancient Romans mixed ground volcanic ash and lime together to form concrete roofs, which are resistant to cracks. This same mixture was used to construct the dome on the Pantheon in Rome, and that building is still standing today.
The next time you look at all the houses in your neighborhood, you will know that their roofs are a product of clever engineering. They are designed to protect homes from the elements as well as maintain consistent indoor temperatures to keep utility costs in check. There are also a number of options that you can choose when it comes time to replace the roof of your home. A roofer will be happy to sit down with you and discuss the many choices that you have available. When you need roof replacement services in Charleston, SC, contact Restoration Roofing.
