Today’s Metal Roofing? It Might Not Be What You Think
March 16, 2014 | Filed under: Articles
Metal roofing has a very long history in the USA as well as across the globe. Notre Dame, The Pantheon, Monticello, even the cap of the Washington Monument – all of these had some form of metal protecting them. But, while metal was originally costly and time-consuming, meaning it was used largely on various significant structures, modern technology has made it an affordable, beautiful, and green option for residential use as well.
Modern Metal Roofing
Many of today’s metal roofs are designed to look like traditional roofing materials. You can choose shake, slate, and tile looks in metal, as well as the traditional standing seam. This means that your home can feature a beautiful and beneficial metal roof yet still fit in any residential setting.
What are the benefits of metal roofing? In addition to looks, the durability of these products attracts most homeowners. Metal panels can interlock with one another so there are no “open” edges to curl or blow up, allowing water infiltration. This helps these products achieve the highest possible wind ratings. And, of course, the metal is fire resistant as well as resistant to streaking and staining by algae, fungus, and mold.
Metal roofs also offer energy efficiency. Many of today’s coatings use reflective pigment technology to reflect away radiant heat even in dark colors. Additionally, metal roofs that have heavier forming, such as shake and tile profiles, have an integral air gap between the metal and the roof deck, stopping conductive heat transfer as well. Homeowners often report energy savings of 20% and even more with these products.
Finally, today’s metal roofs have high recycled content. This means that homeowners can close the recycling loop with a major home purchase. Aluminum roofs have recycled content of 95% or more while steel and copper are around 35%. And, of course, the minimal scrap created when the roofs are installed is 100% recyclable.
To see some examples of beautiful metal roofing today, visit Classic Metal Roofing Systems, Kassel & Irons, or Green American Home; all divisions of Isaiah Industries, Inc.
Todd Miller has spent his entire career in the metal building products manufacturing industry. He is president of Isaiah Industries, an organization recognized as one of the world’s leading metal roofing manufacturers. Todd is currently Vice President of the MRA (Metal Roofing Association) and a Past Chair of MCA (Metal Construction Association). Through his website, he strives to raise the bar on standards and practices to provide property owners with the best possible products for successful roofing projects.
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Hi Todd, great info. I also hail from the Buckeye state, but am relocating to Colorado Springs. We have purchased a home that is getting a new roof paid for by prior owners insurance (approx $17k for class 4 asphalt shingle). 47 squares but lots of hips, etc… Are there experienced contractors with your product in CO? Rough estimate on cost? Any chance of a discount for use of home pix for your marketing? Need to work out details with current owners and insurance company.. Thanks and Happy New Year! House pix at http://s650.photobucket.com/user/jwhobbs/library/14995%20Raton%20Road