From Rust to Resilience: The Sustainable Power of Metal Roofs
The construction industry in the United States accounts for almost one-third of emitted greenhouse gases, raw materials used, total energy consumed, and waste created. Many architects and contractors have acknowledged this profound impact of building and pledged to more environmentally friendly practices. Within these programs, material selection is given more importance to reduce the environmental impact of construction.
Sustainable roofs are one of the building materials that construction companies now embrace. A popular choice is metal roofing, which is lightweight, durable, and fire-resistant. Let's look at the advantages of metal roof panels in achieving more green buildings.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs reflect high amounts of solar radiation, reducing heating and cooling costs better than traditional asphalt roofs. With proper insulation, metal roofing serves as an effective thermal barrier. It can also be pre-painted or coated with various treatments that boost the reflective properties to help the building achieve even more significant energy savings.
Compatibility With Solar Panels
Solar panel performance is rated and often warranted for 25 years, creating a significant issue with asphalt roofs. These systems will last longer than asphalt roofing as they require replacement as frequently as every 12 years.
When a roof needs replacing, the entire solar power system also does, leading to a costly and time-consuming process. Additionally, asphalt roofs and solar panels are heavy, so you might need extra construction to support their combined weight.
However, metal roofs are one of the lightest roofing materials, so they can easily support the weight of solar power systems, mounting racks, and hardware. Most solar roofing systems also use metal roofs as the base. Thin-film and crystalline solar technologies are suitable for pairing with metal roof panels.
Flame Resistance
Even when exposed to extreme temperatures, most metals effectively keep their strength because of their high-temperature oxidation resistance. A metal roof has a Class A fire rating, the highest grade a roofing material can receive. Roofing materials that don't attain this level, like asphalt shingles or wood shakes, need fire-retardant coating added to achieve fire resistance.
Although no roof is entirely fireproof, a metal one won't lose resistance or spark and easily combust like other materials. This feature can help lessen the chances that a building will become fuel for an environmentally devastating fire.
Durability and Maintenance
Metal roof panels can withstand environmental challenges, such as extreme weather and UV exposure, making them suitable for various climates. Metals like aluminum, copper, and steel are common and provide a long lifespan. Unlike tiles or other materials, these metals are malleable. They can be pressed and shaped without sustaining any breaks or cracks.
During its lifetime, metal roofing requires virtually no maintenance. For example, aluminum and copper are naturally rust-resistant because they are nonferrous metals. They are also naturally resistant to mildew and mold, making your investment last for many decades.
Recyclability
Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roof panels are fully recyclable, preventing more landfill waste. When the roof needs replacing, the metals used in its construction can be recycled again.
The manufacturing process of metal roofing also involves fewer carbon-intensive processes than the fabrication of other roofing materials. Additionally, metal roof panels produce minimal waste, even 50 years after installation.
Plenty of places take scrap metals, and most will even pay for it. Old metal roof panels are repurposed to create other products like appliances and furniture.
The Takeaway
A metal roof's energy efficiency and long-lasting durability make it a wise investment for homeowners. Finding reasons not to embrace metal roofs for green building initiatives is a challenge. The cost savings from decreased energy consumption alone make a compelling argument. If that isn't enough to convince you, consider other long-lasting materials that are fully recyclable.
Remember that most standard roofing materials utilize fossil-fuel-based asphalt, which emits carbon dioxide into the environment. With metal roofs, you can help reduce environmental impacts, enjoy long-term savings, and enhance the safety and beauty of your home.
Make the Change to Sustainable Roofs
Are you ready to upgrade to an eco-friendly roofing solution? Take the first step toward contributing to a greener planet by reaching out to a reliable roofer today. Their experienced team will help you explore your metal roof options and enhance the sustainability of your home.
