The Trend for Metal Roof Shingles Is Growing Steadily

Posted: Jun 05, 2013
Author: Race City Roofing

The global concept of ‘going green’ should begin in the home. The growing trend towards metal roofing relates directly to the increasing environmental awareness of homeowners. Metal roof shingles are 100% recyclable, whereas conventional products such as asphalt contribute to the 13 billion pounds of waste that goes into American landfills every year.

Asphalt is a main ingredient in traditional shingles. Its purpose is to provide a roof with waterproofing integrity. It is derived from petroleum and therefore contains oils that give shingles pliability and ductility.

However, during the lifespan of asphalt roof shingles, these oils start rising to the surface and rainwater washes them away. In an effort to restore balance, new oils come to the surface and the washing-away process continues. In addition, the intense heat of the roof hardens or oxidizes the asphalt.

Metal roof shingles, when installed with z-flashing and proper drip edge, are designed to contract and expand with the elements. The roof will look as good as it did on the day it was installed. It’s not just the dependability that homeowners like about long-life metal roofs-- it’s also the low maintenance.

Many homeowners don’t know until after the fact that a metal roof can actually cost less than asphalt. Because asphalt roof shingles need to be replaced 2 to 4 times more often than metal roof shingles, you need to take into account the initial outlay of an asphalt roof, as well as labor costs for future repairs or replacement, when making a comparison to a metal roof installation.