Metal is one of the most environmentally friendly and sustainable materials you can choose for your home’s roof. Below are several of the reasons why metal is a good choice for your home and the environment.

Recyclable

Metals are exceptional building materials that can claim both recycled content and recyclability by industry recognized green building definitions. A Union metal roof is constructed of a minimum of 20% recycled content, and many times this approaches 60%. Additionally, metal roofs can be 100% recycled once they’re taken out of service. Conversely, asphalt shingles comprise an estimated 6.8 million tons of landfill waste each year, nearly 3% of all municipal solid waste.

Energy Efficient

Energy Star certified metal roofs can reduce cooling costs and energy consumption by as much as 40% by reflecting a high percentage of the sun’s energy back into the atmosphere. See the “Energy Efficiency” link on this website for more information.

Reduces the Urban Heat Island Effect

In many urban areas of North America, the prevalent use of energy-absorbing building materials such as asphalt shingles, concrete, and pavements can create a microclimate wherein temperatures are higher than in surrounding rural areas. These materials absorb and store large amounts of solar energy during the day, causing ambient temperatures to remain unnaturally high, sometimes by as much as 12 F. These higher temperatures lead to a host of other problems, including increased energy consumption and a greater incidence of ozone and smog formation. Studies have shown that reducing ambient temperatures by as little as one half degree can reduce smog by 5%.

Energy Star certified metal roofs help mitigate this phenomenon by reflecting a high percentage of the sun’s energy back into the atmosphere, reducing heat buildup. So not only can you lower your own utility bills, you can do your part to ensure a healthy environment in your own community.

Installs Over Existing Roof Systems

Metal roofs have the best durability to weight ratio of any roofing material. Union’s steel roofing panels weigh 50% to 65% less per square foot than most asphalt shingles. This light weight allows for installation over existing roof systems in most cases, minimizing landfill waste by eliminating the need to strip the roof of the old material. Eliminating old roof tear-off also saves you money on installation and disposal costs. Consult your licensed roofing contractor to confirm if your roof is suitable for this type of installation.

Outstanding Durability

Because metal roofs are so durable and last such a long time, they rarely need to be replaced, reducing material consumption. On average, an asphalt shingle roof will have to be replaced three or more times over the life of a typical metal roof. See the “Weather Resistance” link for more information on metal’s outstanding durability.