Metal roofing is all around a better option than traditional asphalt shingles. It lasts on average 70 years or more, far outreaching the life of asphalt roofs which is 12-20 years. It is durable and can withstand winds that gust up to 140 miles per hour. Metal roofs do not corrode, crack, cannot be eaten through by raccoons and squirrels, and will not ignite if there is a fire or lightning strike. While the initial investment in a metal roof is more substantial than an asphalt roof, all around, metal roofs are the superior roofing option. They are also energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Here are some of the environmental advantages of having metal roofing.
Recyclable
Metal roofs are 100% recyclable once their lifespan has been reached. Some metal roofs are made out of recycled steel and metal, and can be recycled themselves. Green Metal Roofing only uses organic steel, which means the steel used in your metal roof has not been previously recycled. By going with a metal roof, you are keeping tons of asphalt roofing materials out of the landfills.
Sustainability
As stated earlier, metal roofs have a lifespan of about 70 years. There are, however, metal roofs that were installed in the 1800s that are still functioning today, over 160 years later. Metal roofs are beyond sustainable and can last upwards of six asphalt roof life cycles. All of those asphalt roofs would have ended up in a landfill if it had not been for the metal roof installed onto a home.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency in homes promotes environmentally friendly practices. Metal roofs are part of this energy efficiency. In both winter and summer, metal roofing can help homeowners lower their energy bill. This is because metal roofing materials reflect solar radiant heat. This reflection ends up reducing cooling costs up to 25%. The Green Metal Roofing system uses double strapping, creating air-flow between the roof deck and the steel, further helping to reduce heat transfer into your home.
Not Harmful to the Environment
When you go with a metal roof instead of an asphalt roof, you are helping the environment by introducing one less asphalt roof into it. Asphalt is incredibly toxic and carcinogenic. It is vital that it be kept out of all water sources because it pollutes it. It is also not good for the environment because it is made from petroleum-based products, which has specific environmental impacts. Also, asphalt is a high volatile organic compound. When it is made, harmful gasses escape into the atmosphere. By swapping out asphalt roofs for metal roofs you are keeping toxic and carcinogenic chemicals out of the air and water, and helping protect the planet from drilling.
Should You Get a Metal Roof?
Metal roofs are costly, and they need to be installed by knowledgeable contractors who understand things like expansion and contraction. Metal roofing sheets, though, are superior to asphalt and are so much better for the environment. If you are interested in getting a metal roof installed, please contact us at Green Metal Roofing. We will walk you through the process and help you take the plunge into greener pastures.
