Earth Day Tips for Homeowners: Reduce, Recycle, Re-Roof?

BELFAIR, Wash., April 20, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sure, everyone knows about CFL bulbs and curbside recycling.  What many homeowners don't know is that the roof over their head can make a big difference to the environment.

Many consumers are shocked to learn that traditional asphalt shingles are a petroleum product, with a big environmental impact.  Not only are asphalt shingles adding to dependency on fossil fuels, they need to be replaced every 15-20 years, and there is no good way to dispose of them – landfills are full of asphalt shingles.

Eco-friendly products, including metal roofs, are rapidly replacing petroleum-based asphalt shingles.   A recent McGraw-Hill Construction and Analytics® survey showed metal roofing now comprises 11% of the residential re-roofing market, more than doubling in just ten years.  

An old car, dishwasher or refrigerator can be recycled to re-roof a home.  All steel roofs contain a minimum of 25% recycled content, and many have a much higher percentage. At the end of its useful life, metal roofing is 100 percent recyclable. In addition, many metal roofs now feature Energy Star ratings that qualify for tax credits.

"According to the EPA, approximately 11 million tons of asphalt shingle waste is generated and disposed of in the United States each year," states Bill Hippard, President of the not-for-profit Metal Roofing Alliance.  "California alone generates 1.5 million tons of shingle waste each year."

Most people never think about their roof until there is a problem with it.  Planning ahead is the key to making wise, eco-friendly home choices.

Clinton Ford of Fayetteville, North Carolina installed an EDCO metal roof in 2009.  "I love the fact that I don't have to worry about this roof ever again.  I chose a metal roof because of the durability and energy efficiency," said Ford. "The roof looks great, and it has significantly reduced my energy bills. This is the best investment I've ever made."

Eco-friendly metal roofs are available in a wide range of colors and styles, and feature long term warranties.   Photovoltaic Systems and Solar Panels can easily be integrated into metal roof systems, making them an even better choice.  Metal roofs can also allow consumers to harvest rainwater for reuse.

The Metal Roofing Alliance was formed to answer homeowners and contractors' questions about residential metal roofing, including their energy benefits and environmental impact.  For more information, visit www.metalroofing.com.

SOURCE Metal Roofing Alliance

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