ISTANBUL — Next-generation roofing systems are gaining traction in Turkey’s construction sector as they significantly reduce costs, ease labor shortages, and improve building safety, according to industry representatives.
Mehmet Ali Ketanci, Chairman of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO) Construction Materials Professional Committee, said traditional clay tile roofing systems are more expensive than modern alternatives, particularly standing seam (kenet) roofing systems.
“Standing seam roofing reduces costs by around 30%,” Ketanci said. “Traditional roofing systems create problems both in terms of cost and labor. Skilled craftsmen are increasingly hard to find, and the sector is seeking faster and more practical solutions. This is driving change.”
Ketanci noted that several roofing systems are currently in use, including clay tile, bituminous, standing seam, sandwich panel, and green roof systems. Standing seam roofs are now predominantly preferred in residential buildings, while sandwich panel roofing systems are commonly used in factories and organized industrial zones.
He emphasized that regulatory changes and cost pressures are the main drivers behind the shift in roofing technologies.
“Today, regulations largely determine how roofs should be built,” Ketanci said. “The process is no longer left entirely to individuals or companies, as it was in the past.”
Highlighting the cost advantage of standing seam systems over traditional tile roofs, Ketanci reiterated that conventional roofing methods pose challenges due to higher material costs and labor intensity, reinforcing the industry’s move toward modern solutions.
Improved Safety Against Severe Weather
Addressing incidents of roof damage during periods of strong winds, Ketanci said such problems can be prevented through proper construction techniques and compliance with regulations.
“We do see roof failures during very strong winds,” he said. “At the most basic level, roofs must be built in accordance with regulations, using the correct materials and complete systems. In the past, roofs were built with timber sourced directly from construction sites. That approach has now been abandoned. New materials and proper application methods produce healthier and safer outcomes.”
Ketanci also stressed that proper insulation plays a critical role in extending a building’s lifespan. He noted that the higher cost and labor burden of traditional tile roofs are accelerating the adoption of next-generation roofing systems, with contractors increasingly favoring modern alternatives.
He added that clay tile roofs place a significantly heavier load on buildings compared to modern membrane-based systems.
“For example, if a tile roof weighs around 50 tons, membrane roofing systems weigh approximately 20 to 25 tons,” Ketanci said. “Reducing the load is beneficial for buildings, as a lighter roof significantly lowers the overall structural burden.”
Ketanci also warned that insufficient insulation in older buildings can lead to water leakage over time. In structures with wooden roof frames, inadequate insulation may cause decay, ultimately shortening the building’s service life.
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök