Metal roofs are popular It has skyrocketed in recent years due to durability, energy efficiency and environmental performance. Metal roofs can last 40-70 years and can be recycled at the end of their useful life. Due to its durability and energy efficiency, there is a great possibility of cost savings. Are they better in the environment?
A high quality roof is one of the best ways to protect your home from the elements. It serves as a barrier to rain, snow, hail, wind, branches and debris. Even a small leak can cause serious problems in your home, and inefficient roofing can cause energy performance issues throughout your home.
Why do metal roofs save energy?
Metal roofs are installed more frequently as energy saving demand increases. a Research funded by the US Department of Energy and carried out by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Metal roofs promote energy savings At home. The answer should be partially about how you install the roof.
In this study, the metal roof came with a Batten/Counter-Batten system that allows for airflow below. The study found a 45% reduction in heat flow on metal roofs. This is mainly due to ventilation on the cover. Additionally, researchers have reduced cooling costs by up to 25%.
When the roof is nailed directly to the roof deck, there is no airspace below. This results in greater heat loss from the attic in winter. Having an air gap works like insulation and prevents heat transfer from the home. Similarly, in summer, air gaps prevent the heat from warming the attic and the rest of the home.
Metal roofs may be subject to a reflective solar coating. This reflects the radiation of the sun and is useful in warm climates. In contrast, asphalt shingles are stored and retain more heat in the summer.
Beyond your own home, a metal roof will help to cool your neigborhhood, Reduce heat island effect. By reflecting solar energy, metal roofs contribute to lowering ambient temperatures. If you live in an area affected by dramatic warming, then you can use a metal roof It is particularly beneficial in dense areas where heat buildup is a concern.
Metal vs iron roof
Longevity on the roof is an important consideration. It is said that a steel roof lasts for about 20 years, but this depends on the climate. Metal roofs can easily last twice or three times longer. It is also suitable for solar panels. It is common to have to remove the solar panels when replacing the roof. Therefore, a long-lasting metal roof can help you avoid this problem. In fact, metal roofs can easily survive solar panels.
The upfront costs for asphalt roofs are significantly lower, but the time is significantly reduced. A steel roof is a bit easier to install and less skilled. However, considering long-term costs, metal roof lifecycle costs are lower.
Metal roofs also contain clean materials, making them a better option for catching rainwater. These roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their lifespan, and steel roofs contain at least 25% recycled content. On the other hand, it is known to contain shingles from asphalt Arsenic and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHS) At levels that are harmful to human health and the environment. Some recyclers divide asphalt shingles into smaller pieces for use in road construction, but they can cause contamination in a loose form.
Metal roofs have knocked down asphalt iron roofs based on energy efficiency and environmental performance, except for higher prepaid costs. They continue It’s becoming more popular Because of their many advantages.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on April 17, 2019 and updated in April 2025.
