What are the Environmental Benefits of Metal Roofs?

Metal roofs are quickly becoming the preferred option for new builds and replacement roofs among homeowners. Especially if you are looking for a high-quality, reliable roofing system that compliments the style of your home. It’s true that metal roofs do cost more to install than some other types of roofs. However, the higher initial cost is quickly offset by the savings realized by not having to replace the roof for decades.

Not only are metal roofs fantastic from a return-on-investment perspective, but roofing metal is widely regarded as the most environmentally-responsible choice. After all, the roof is the single largest structural component in your home. The materials you use for your roof can have a significant impact on your home’s carbon footprint and environmental impact.

8 Environmental Benefits of Metal Roofing

1) Roofing metal is manufactured from recycled metal

The raw material used to create metal roofing comes from a variety of consumer, government and industrial sources. Your new metal roof could be made from up to 95% recycled metal sourced from products such as discarded car parts or soda cans, or manufacturing plant waste. This means virtually no non-renewable resources are used to make roofing metal, and that’s a win for the environment.

2) Metal roofing is nearly 100% recyclable

Once your metal roof reaches the end of its functional life, it won’t wind up in the landfill like traditional asphalt shingle roofing tiles do. Your old roof will be diverted to an approved recycling facility. It will be sorted, graded and sent out to be re-manufactured into new products such as playground structures, metal beams or perhaps even more metal roofing.

3) Metal roofs last a long, long time

According to research by State Farm Insurance, the average lifespan of a high-quality, professionally installed metal roof is between 40 and 70 years. By comparison, traditional asphalt roofs are generally expected to last just 12-20 years. The cost of maintaining your roof over time is significantly higher with asphalt shingles. However, every time an asphalt roof is replaced all that debris usually ends up in a landfill.

4) Roofing metal is exceptionally energy-efficient

One of the lesser-known benefits of metal roofing is that it is exceptionally energy-efficient in comparison to other roofing materials. Metal is particularly good at reflecting solar rays, and that goes a long way towards keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. Unlike asphalt shingles that trap and retain heat, metal doesn’t hold heat in the same way, and that can lead to lower home energy consumption.

Metal roofing can be pre-coated with a cool roof coating by the manufacturer to increase the reflective properties, helping you achieve even greater energy savings. You can also opt for a light-colored roof to maximize the solar reflective benefits.

5) Metal roofing stands up to tough weather conditions

Insurance companies love metal roofs because these roofs tend to fare much better than other roofing materials. They are great during extreme weather events such as high winds, torrential rains and heavy snow loads.

Some metal roofs can hold up to wind gusts of up to 140 miles per hour, and this type of roofing is naturally impact-resistant. Because metal roofs are so durable, they don’t need to be repaired or replaced as frequently as other types of roofs. That’s good for your wallet and the environment.

6) Metal roofs are naturally flame-resistant

Evolving climate conditions mean that many areas are seeking extended periods of long, dry weather, and that leads to an increased risk of forest fires. Although no roof is completely fireproof, a metal roof won’t spark and easily combust like other materials will. This can help reduce the chances that your home or cottage will wind up being fuel for a fire that devastates habitat for wildlife.

According to the U.S. government, “the roof is the most vulnerable part of a building during a fire”, and roofs made from shakes or shingles can be “serious hazards to the buildings on which they are installed…..also to any other buildings downwind from them which are similarly roofed.” Having a metal roof on your home can literally help stop a wildfire in its tracks.

7) Solar systems can be easily installed on metal roofs

Are you considering installing solar panels to help cut your non-renewable energy use and make your property more energy-efficient? It’s important to know that solar systems can’t be installed on some types of roofs. 

Metal roofs are highly compatible with solar systems because these roofs are durable, long-lasting and relatively lightweight. This is an important consideration when determining whether the roof structure in your home can safely handle the added load of a solar collection system. This is especially true if your plans include a roof-mounted solar hot water system, as these systems add a significant amount of weight to your roof trusses.

8) Metal roof come in a huge variety of factory colors

Another one of the environmental benefits of metal roofing is the fact that roofing metal now comes in a huge variety of colors right from the factory. This means you won’t have to use paint to get the color you want for your roof. Not using paint reduces your carbon footprint and conserves resources, and that’s a win when it comes to protecting the environment.

Have questions about the benefits of metal roofing?