As the world edges closer and closer to a climate disaster, many people are waking up to the reality of global warming and climate change. This has spurred a proliferation of environmentally-conscious individuals that have adopted more sustainable lifestyles. In fact, as of 2019, the US “green economy” was worth a staggering $1.3 trillion.
Green living and sustainability touch all aspects of our daily lives, including our roofing systems. There’s a lot of debate surrounding eco-friendly roofing systems. Some people swear by metal roofs, while others think that any type of roofing can be green if installed and maintained properly.
So, which is it? Are metal roofs good for the environment, or are they another way to waste resources? This blog post will look at metal roofs and see how they compare to other types of eco-friendly roofing solutions.
What Is a Metal Roof?
A metal roof is a roofing system made from metal pieces or tiles. It is a popular choice for commercial and residential buildings across the country, thanks to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
There are three main types of metal roofs, and they are:
Steel Metal Roofing
This is the most common type of metal roofing for residential buildings. They mostly come in 24 and 26 gauge for standing seam panels. They’re a popular choice for homeowners because of their accents.
Stainless Steel Metal Roofing
This isn’t as common as steel roofs, but it gets the job done. The main advantage of stainless steel roofing is that it’s tougher than other metal roofing options.
Copper Metal Roofing
This is the most expensive type of metal roofing, but it’s also the most durable. With proper maintenance, copper roofs can last for over a hundred years.
Metal Roofs and the Environment: Are They Green Enough?
To determine whether metal roofs are eco-friendly, let’s look at some “green” aspects of this roofing solution. Metal roofs are environmentally friendly for the following reasons:
They’re Super Efficient
Metal roofs are one of the most energy-efficient roofing solutions available today. Unlike other roofs, metal roofs don’t trap heat but instead reflect solar energy. This helps keep your home cool without cranking up the air conditioning.
A recent study showed that metal roofs could decrease heat flow by 45 percent and reduce cooling costs by 25 percent. This is not only great for the environment but your pockets too. A high-quality metal roof can save you energy costs every year.
Made From Recycled Materials
A large portion of any metal roof is made from recycled materials, meaning a portion of your metal roof was once a car part or even a metal pipe. What’s more, after your metal roof has served its purpose, you can recycle it.
Some may argue that you can also recycle shingles, and they’re not wrong. However, recycling shingles is a lot harder and sometimes economically unfeasible. If you want a roofing solution that’s 100 percent recyclable, stick to metal roofing.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Your metal roof can last you a lifetime if you take good care of it. You can expect to get about 40 to 70 years from your metal roof. Some metal roofs even last for upwards of 90 years.
In contrast, asphalt roofs only last about 20 years, meaning homeowners have to replace them more often. The more manufacturers have to meet consumer demand, the more the environment suffers.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly roof that will save you money in the long run, metal roofing is your best bet.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Roofing?
Besides being eco-friendly, metal roofing has many other advantages for homeowners and business owners. Here are a few benefits of metal roofing.
Metal Roofs are More Durable Than Other Roofing Types
As mentioned above, metal roofs are one of today’s most durable roofing solutions. They can last for up to 50 years, whereas asphalt shingles have a lifespan of around 20 years. This means that you won’t have to replace your roof as often, saving you money in the long run.
Fire-Resistant
Another advantage of metal roofs is that they’re fire-resistant. This is a huge selling point for many homeowners, especially those who live in areas prone to wildfires.
Weather-Resistant
Metal roofs are also weather-resistant, which means they can withstand strong winds, hail, and other severe weather conditions. This is why metal roofs are such a popular choice for commercial buildings.
Come in a Variety of Colors and Styles to Match Your Taste
While metal roofs mainly were found on commercial buildings, they’re becoming more popular in residential homes. And one of the reasons for this is because metal roofs come in a variety of colors and styles to match any home.
You can even paint your roof green to match the environmental theme or paint it brown to match your stucco exterior. Your color options are limited, so find something that matches your taste.
Installing a Metal Roof can Increase the Value of Your Home
Another reason to consider a metal roof is that it can increase the value of your home. This is because metal roofs are such a durable and eco-friendly option. That makes them a good sell for most home buyers.
So, if you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, a metal roof could be a great investment, as long as you find a reputable metal roofing company for your installation. Improperly installed roofs have a lower ROI because they’re prone to problems in the future.
Eco-Friendly Roofing for a Better Tomorrow
Metal is an eco-friendly roofing solution and a viable one at that. There’s no reason not to switch to metal roofing with all its benefits. You will be doing your part for the environment, and you’ll also be saving money in the long run.
So, what are you waiting for? Make the switch today. Contact us today so we can get started on your roof.