The insulation also aids in noise reduction. An east- west orientation means a warmer house and needs sunscreens. The Roof . Tile roofs are in, asphalt shingles are out, even in lower-priced starter homes. Tile used to be the clay tiles from Mexico, but they broke easily, and were expensive.
Tiles are now concrete and therefore lend themselves to different shades and styles.
Pitched roofs are the most common type. Energy-efficient Features . Definitely consider putting energy-efficient features in your homes. Sunscreens help keep out ultraviolet rays and heat. Ceiling fans help circulate the air.