Short answer: yes, metals are a great choice for an environmentally friendly roof.
In recent years, the environmental impact of each roof choice has been a major factor, in the decisions of both big businesses and domestic property owners alike.
We are all trying to make more sustainable decisions, particularly in large-scale projects like property renovations.
And, one of the biggest benefits of choosing metal roofing is that it is a sustainable, eco-friendly option, with a very low carbon footprint.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our full environmental guide to metal roofing. Keep reading to find out what makes metal roofing so environmentally friendly, and the 3 most sustainable metals to choose for your new roof.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN FACTORS THAT MAKE METAL ROOFING ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY?
Durability
Firstly, metal is an extremely strong and durable material, with a remarkably high level of weather, corrosion, wind and scratch resistance.
When you compare its performance against traditional options (like tiles and shingles), metal roofing has been proven to last much longer. In fact, most metal roofs will remain in the same condition for up to 50 years.
This makes it a great environmental option, as it reduces the need for replacements (which, if required, would effectively double a material’s carbon footprint).
Energy efficiency
The energy efficiency of metal roofing is another key contributor to the sustainability of metal roofing.
Metal has reflective properties, which means that on cold days, hot air from the sun will be reflected back into the surrounding air, and kept outside of the property. This will keep the property cool, and maximise the effect of your air conditioning.
In fact, metal roofs can reduce the cost of a property’s air conditioning by a whopping 20%.
Minimal carbon footprint
In addition to the low carbon footprint required for its repair and production, metal roofing also has a very low carbon footprint in its production.
In fact, did you know that metal roofs (particularly stainless steel roofs) can easily be made by using recycled metals?
What’s more, at the point where the roof needs replacing, the metals used in its construction can be recycled once again.
The fact that metal is readily recyclable means that the carbon emissions caused by the mining and processing of new materials are minimised. Plus, metal roofing produces a minimal amount of waste, even 50 years after its installation.
If you compare this to other materials, the contrast is quite shocking. In fact, according to the EPA, asphalt shingles represent around 11 million tonnes of annual landfill waste.
WHAT ARE THE 3 MOST ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY METALS FOR ROOFING?
If you’re keen to make your new roof as eco-friendly as possible, we would recommend choosing one of these three metals.
The most environmentally friendly metals for roofing are:
Steel roofing
Steel roofing often contains recycled steel, because steel can be recycled an unlimited number of times, without reducing any of its properties. This means that recycled steel is just as effective for roofing as non-recycled steel. What’s more, after the conclusion of its lifespan, all of the materials that are used in steel roofing are 100% recyclable.
Zinc roofing
Zinc roofing is a fantastic choice for eco-conscious property owners. It is readily recyclable and, like steel, can be recycled without compromising any of its qualities. Furthermore, zinc roofing is renowned for its superb strength, resistance and durability, meaning it will require minimal repair or replacement.
Aluminium roofing
Aluminium roofs have a superb strength to weight ratio, meaning they are both light weight and extremely strong. As a raw material, aluminium is abundant and can be readily mined and processed, thereby minimising the carbon emissions in its production. Plus, as with zinc and steel, aluminium is completely recyclable.
At JTC Roofing, we are one of the UK’s leading metal roofing specialists. Our team has an extensive knowledge of all types of metal roofing, and knows precisely how to make this home, or commercial renovation option as eco-conscious as possible.