Metal roofing is quickly becoming more popular as an alternative to traditional asphalt shingle roofs. Metal roofing is more durable, longer lasting, and — most importantly — a more sustainable option than traditional shingles. Here’s why: A metal roof can last for up to 50 years or more in the right climate and with routine maintenance. In comparison, the typical lifespan of a standard asphalt shingle is only 20-25 years. Metal roofs also require little to no maintenance once they’re installed, while regular upkeep is essential to extending the life of your shingled roof. The environmental benefits of metal roofing are clear when you compare it with other materials. Both steel and copper roofs offer superior fire resistance compared to shingles, which means a metal roof will likely still stand after any wildfires that might occur near your home in the future.
Environmental Benefits of Metal Roofing
When you consider all the resources that go into making shingles, metal roofing suddenly emerges as a more sustainable option. Shingles are made of synthetic materials that require energy to process, which means more greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. A typical asphalt shingle roof will lose about 35% of its heat-absorbing capacity after just 10 years of use, which means it requires more energy to stay cool in hot weather. Since metal roofing is made from 100% recyclable materials, it doesn’t have any negative environmental impacts. Metals like copper and steel are relatively abundant, meaning an increase in demand for them wouldn’t put additional strain on natural resources.
Conservation of Natural Resources
Since metal roofing is made from 100% recyclable materials, it doesn’t have any negative environmental impacts. Metals like copper and steel are relatively abundant, meaning an increase in demand for them wouldn’t put additional strain on natural resources. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, require natural gas or oil as a feedstock to create synthetic crude oil. This process alone contributes significantly to greenhouse gases and pollution.
Energy Efficiency
Asphalt shingles lose 35% of their heat-absorbing capacity after 10 years of use. This means they require more energy to stay cool in hot weather. A metal roof, on the other hand, has no decrease in insulation properties over time. A metal roof is also one of the most airtight roofing materials you can find, which makes it a great choice for reducing your home’s energy use. Metal roofing is also more reflective than asphalt shingles, which means it can keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Protection Against Climate Change
When you consider the impact of greenhouse gases on climate change, it’s clear why a metal roof is a better choice than asphalt shingles. A typical asphalt shingle roof will lose about 35% of its heat-absorbing capacity after just 10 years of use, and it is estimated that 1% of the total amount of CO2 in the atmosphere is caused by the production of asphalt shingles. A metal roof is a more efficient insulator, meaning it will last longer and require less energy for your home to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Copper roofs, in particular, have been shown to reflect up to 97% of the sun’s heat, making them an environmentally-friendly option for homeowners worried about heat island effect.
Safer Environment for Humans and Animals
Metal roofs also provide a safer environment for humans and animals. Since they don’t contain any synthetic materials, they don’t support the growth of mold, which can pose a health risk to anyone in your household who suffers from allergies or asthma. A metal roof is also more resistant to pests and other organisms that can damage your shingles. This means you’ll spend less time and money dealing with infestations, and it’s possible that a metal roof could help prevent the spread of certain diseases.
Conclusion
When you consider all the benefits of metal roofing, it’s clear why it’s a more sustainable choice than asphalt shingles. A metal roof can last for up to 50 years or more in the right climate and with routine maintenance. In comparison, the typical lifespan of a standard asphalt shingle is only 20-25 years. Metal roofs also require little to no maintenance once they’re installed, while regular upkeep is essential to extending the life of your shingled roof. A metal roof is also one of the most airtight roofing materials you can find, which means it’s great for reducing your home’s energy use. A metal roof is also more reflective than asphalt shingles, which means it can keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
