As homeowners become more informed about the environmental footprint they leave behind, eco-friendly choices are growing in popularity. Environmentally friendly gadgets and appliances help to decrease waste and pollution for the greater good. Eco-friendly doesn’t just stop there. Metal roofing is proving to be an excellent alternative to traditional shingles and tiles.
Let’s learn more about why metal roofing is environmentally friendly, shall we?
High Durability
Metal roofs consistently outdo other roofing materials when it comes to durability and endurance. The average shelf life of a metal roof is up to three times longer than asphalt shingles. According to research, metal roofs have a substantially higher expected life than all of the other roofing materials. In fact, metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more and can endure weather conditions such as rain, snow, and hail.
Recycle-Friendly
Metal roofs are unmatched when it comes to recyclability, which makes them a popular option among eco-friendly individuals. Metal roofs are comprised of 40% recycled steel, while the components of metal roofs are completely recyclable. Since these roofs can easily be recycled or reused, they rarely pile up in a landfill. On the other hand, it’s estimated that 11 million tons of asphalt shingles wind up in landfills, according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s estimation.
When it comes to being recyclable, metal roofs don’t just take the cake, they take the whole bakery.
Energy Efficient
Metal roofs are energy efficient and decrease the costs of cooling by up to 40%. The reflective properties of these roofs help to reduce the warming effects that come from the sun’s rays, especially during the summer months. According to research by Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Building Technology Center, high solar reflectivity levels of metal roofing can substantially ease urban heat island effects.
Metal roofs can also be installed over your existing roof without having to remove anything, which further helps to reduce landfill waste.
Metal Roof Cost
Metal roofing is a premium product which means it will cost approximately two to three times more than its other counterparts like asphalt shingles. On the other hand, if you have a slate roof on your home, you could actually save money on the cost of metal roofing. Regardless of what type of metal roof you choose, the benefits are incomparable. Even more so, you most likely will never have to purchase another roof again. Most metal roofs have a 30 to 50-year warranty and they will increase the value of your home.
Weather Tolerance
Metal roofs can handle many years of bashing from extreme weather such as hail storms, wildfires, and high winds. The wind rating for metal roofing is 140 mph which is equivalent to a high-powered hurricane. The uplift resistance and wind resistance is actually more than the building code requirement.
Metal Roof Weight on the Structure
Many homeowners may be concerned that a metal roof could be too heavy for their structure. Contrary to some beliefs, metal roofs are 75% lighter than concrete tile, slate, and cement shakes, and 50 percent lighter than asphalt shingle roofs. Weight from a metal roof does not pose a threat to any structure.
Other Benefits of Metal Roofing
Benefits of metal roofing are as follows:
Value of the Home Increases
When homeowners add a metal roof to their homes, they can recover a high amount of the roof’s cost. On average, homeowners can see a 6 percent increase in the resale value in comparison to homes with asphalt roofs.
Low Maintenance
In comparison to other roofing counterparts like asphalt which requires regular maintenance, metal roofs require very little upkeep. Homeowners typically need to make sure the roof is free from debris and conduct a once-a-year inspection for small maintenance items such as a paint touch up or cleaning.
Metal Roofing in South Florida
Metal roofing is an excellent choice for South Florida’s hot climate and other extreme weather conditions. Metal roofs are durable and can easily reflect heat away from your roof. At ABC Roofing, our roofing team is filled with knowledgeable metal roof experts. We are proud to have a 30-year track record of top-of-the-line roofing installations. If you would like to learn more, call us at 954-344-4622 today.
