A roof is not just a building element designed to protect the interior from adverse weather conditions. Modern architecture is redefining the role of the roof, making it an important aesthetic, functional and ecological element. In this article we will take a look at modern solutions in the context of roofs, their impact on the overall shape of the building and how they can affect the comfort of residents.
PLANAR graphite
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Evolution of the meaning of roof over the years
For centuries, a roof was a simple covering to protect against rain, snow, wind or sun. Initially, natural building materials such as straw or wood were used. With the development of technology, new solutions emerged, such as sheet metal roofs, ceramic or concrete tiles. In the 20th century, architects began to experiment with the form and function of the roof, which opened the door to modern architectural concepts that are still popular today.
Today, the roof is not only a structural element of a building, providing protection from the weather, but also its business card. Modern architecture in its context poses many challenges to designers and investors in terms of appearance, functionality or energy efficiency. Currently, we can point to several key trends, such as photovoltaic roofs, green roofs or those of unusual form.
Roofing and energy efficiency
Modern roofs play a key role in the energy efficiency aspect of buildings. Solutions that integrate renewable energy technologies are becoming increasingly popular. Increasing environmental awareness and the need for renewable energy sources are leading to an increase in the popularity of photovoltaic roofs. Current solutions no longer offer only the installation of universal solar panels on the finished roof, through which you can produce your own electricity.
The possibilities in this area have gone a step further, offering dedicated systems fully integrated into the roofing of your choice. An example is the VARIO photovoltaic system developed specifically for roofs whose slope will be made of CREATON tiles - for example, ceramic - SIMPLA, KODA or cement - KAPSTADT. Such a solution significantly reduces electricity bills and influences greater energy independence, as well as makes it possible to maintain the distinctive aesthetics of the entire roof. The resulting solar roof is not only extremely efficient and durable, but also aesthetically designed, allowing it to blend harmoniously into the architecture of the building.
In addition, modern products for the roof, such as TITANIA ceramic or KIOTO cement tiles, distinguished by excellent thermal or acoustic insulation, affect the reduction of heat loss, which translates into lower energy bills. The key role of modern pre-covering layer solutions in ensuring increased durability of the roof structure cannot be overlooked either. Here an example is the innovative BLACK roof and façade membranes, excellent in their class in terms of performance. Their excellent vapor-permeable properties translate into excellent functionality, reducing energy consumption for heating the building.
PLANAR graphite + pv system VARIO
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Ecology in roof design
In recent years, the environmental awareness of both designers and investors has also been increasing. Sustainable roofing is becoming a priority. More and more investors are choosing green roofs as a covering for modern homes. These system solutions, such as those offered by swisspor, not only have a positive impact on the aesthetics of the building, but also help improve air quality and reduce the urban heat island effect.
Vegetation on the roof acts as a natural insulator, which helps reduce the temperature inside the building in the summer, and reduces heat loss in the winter. Such solutions have a positive effect on biodiversity, creating favorable conditions for birds and other organisms to exist.
In addition, they can be an excellent place for relaxation, where residents can enjoy nature in an urban setting. Modern roofs often become living spaces, and we now have virtually unlimited possibilities for adapting the "roof surface" to our individual needs. A wide range of system solutions - for example, in the offer of the swisspor brand - means that we can arrange terraces, gardens and even commercial spaces on them, among other things. Roofs have now become places where residents can socialize and spend time outdoors, which is especially important in densely built-up cities.
NUANCE copper engobed.
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Roofs with unusual forms
Modern architecture is also increasingly making use of unusual roof forms, which are an expression of creativity and individualism. From corrugated roofs to pyramid-like structures, architects are using innovative shapes to give buildings character and set them apart from traditional solutions. This approach makes the roof an integral part of the entire building composition. Thanks to the availability of different functional tiles, such as the mansard tile for SIMPLA or KODA clay, architects can blur the line between roof and facade in their designs. Creating minimalist buildings that are homogeneous in terms of external cladding.
The choice of material is extremely important in the realization of an architectural vision, as its key importance in the perception of the entire building cannot be overestimated. Its form, color and construction details affect the first impression of the house. Modern trends harmoniously combine simplicity, elegance and functionality. Architects are increasingly using a variety of materials and colors to emphasize the character of the building, often creating surprising combinations. For example, they choose the classic TITANIA flat Dutch tile in modern glazed black or the minimalist KAPSTADT flat tile in red.
Leading tile manufacturers are also looking for original shapes for their models to offer new, unprecedented quality. In this regard, the revolutionary, one-of-a-kind KIOTO semi-flat cement tile stands out on the market as an original alternative to flat tiles, such as the already mentioned KAPSTADT or SIMPLA.
A modern roof is, first of all, an intelligently designed space that combines functionality, aesthetics and ecology. Giving new, additional roles to contemporary roofs, using sophisticated, innovative materials are trends that define modern architecture. The role of the roof in our daily lives has become much greater, which makes it worthwhile to take a conscious approach to its design, construction or selection of appropriate roof products. After all, a roof should not only be functional or beautiful, but also meet our needs and dreams.
NUANCE anthracite engobed
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