As the most important part of any shelter or building, roofing products must be chosen carefully. Roofing materials protect the outer layer of the roof from the elements, such as rain, hail, snow, sunlight, and living things, such as algae, microbes and wildlife. Roofing materials often depend on the region where the roof is being built, the climate and the structure’s purpose. Commonly used materials for roofing applications across the globe are asphalt shingle, wood shingle, metal roofing, roofing tile, slate and many others to conform to the needs of the residents.

Smart glass technologies are making an impressive landing at airports nationwide, along with having an impact at numerous universities, homes, restaurants and even bars. Recently, View Dynamic Glass windows were tested at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. The glass manipulates the lighting and temperature within the terminal causing consumers *cough* passengers to feel more comfortable. Not only were passengers more comfortable in the Texas summer sun, they also spent more money before getting on their flights. Alcohol sales soared 80% after the installation of the new windows.

In the world of technology, 3D printing is a wildly promising frontier, and Desktop Metal is one of the greatest explorers/ innovators when it comes to metals. Earlier this month, the company announced a new software tool called “Live Parts” that simplifies generative design for 3D printing through advanced simulation and morphogenetic principles.

Brands and retailers want to engage our senses, particularly with touch. Tactile techniques invite the consumer to interact with a product, delivering an experience that can stimulate demand for that product. The growing trend for tactile solutions has crossed into the food and beverage industry in, shall we say, a fresh manner?

Extreme Weather, Labor Shortages, Sustainability and Data Integration to Impact Market Growth

The North American Commercial Roofing market is currently estimated at $4.5 billion and growing steadily (3-5% annually). In a member-exclusive webinar on January 18, 2018, BCC Research analyst John Barrett gave an update to the June 2017 report Commercial Roofing Materials: The North American Market where he overviewed the market and described the most important factors impacting growth across the continent.