In Iraq, the roofing industry faces severe challenges due to extreme summer temperatures often exceeding 50°C. Traditional concrete slabs and basic metal sheets frequently fail to provide adequate insulation, leading to high energy costs for cooling. The demand for shingle granules has risen as builders seek materials that can reflect solar radiation and reduce the "urban heat island" effect in cities like Baghdad and Basra.
The prevalence of dust storms and high salinity in southern regions necessitates the use of highly inert mineral coatings. Standard roofing materials often suffer from abrasion and color fading. Consequently, the adoption of roofing granule technology, specifically those with high UV resistance, has become a priority for sustainable urban development across the country.
Currently, there is a significant shift from heavy cement-based tiles toward lightweight, durable alternatives. The market is seeing an increase in the installation of aluminium roofing tiles, which offer a superior strength-to-weight ratio and better corrosion resistance against the harsh Iraqi environment compared to traditional galvanized steel.
