Mar 12 2007
Roofs take a beating during the winter months. Extreme weather conditions, including temperature changes, can cause roofing shingles and flashing to expand and contract, creating damage. Heavy snow loads and ice dams also take a toll on a roof. Missing, cracked or damaged shingles may develop into leaks. Home repair experts recommend that homeowners have their roof inspected at least once a year to identify and address problems early, before serious damage is done.
Many homeowners are avoiding this annual spring repair ritual by installing durable and environmentally-friendly metal roofs. In fact, the number of homes with metal roofs has doubled over the past five years. Why? Today's metal roofing is available in a wide variety of styles and colors to complement any architectural style. Metal roofs resist cracking, shrinking and eroding and stand up to hail, high winds and wildfires.
These time-tested roofs also save energy and can help to save the environment. Installing a metal roof can save homeowners up to 40 percent in annual energy costs, depending on the geographical region. And, the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005 allows for a tax credit for homeowners who install qualified energy-efficient improvements to an existing home, including metal roofs that meet the Energy Star(R) program requirements.
Most metal roofing systems are made of recycled material. In fact, these investment-grade roofs contain up to 56 percent recycled material, from production to installation to reuse, far superior to traditional asphalt shingles. Often, metal roofs can be installed directly onto an existing asphalt roof, reducing landfill waste associated with tearing off the old roof.
"Metal roofs come with a long term warranty, increase the value of your home and cut energy costs," states Bill Hippard, President of the non-profit Metal Roofing Alliance. "Homeowners are looking for high-quality, low- maintenance solutions. Metal roofing is the answer."
The Metal Roofing Alliance was formed to educate consumers on these and other benefits of metal roofing. Visit http://www.metalroofing.com to learn more about metal roofing and to find a metal roofing contractor.