The asphalt roofing shingles that are so ubiquitous here in the United States are actually quite rare in most other countries. In fact, asphalt shingles are banned as a fire hazard in some parts of Europe. But now a popular type of eco-friendly roofing is spreading from the United States to the world.
Across the globe, metal roofing has become a new trend in residential roofing.
When compared to traditional asphalt or wooden shingles, metal roofing can save up to 25% off a homeowner’s annual energy bill, which is one of the reasons so many people in the U.S. and around the world are having these roofs installed atop their homes.
“The roof is the biggest design element on a home, and metal roofs offer a huge palette of color choices and styles, allowing consumers to choose a truly unique look for their home,” said Renee Ramey, the Executive Director of the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA). “Even in areas where roofing styles are mandated, homeowners can choose a long-lasting metal roof that has the same visual appearance as less eco-friendly choices, such as asphalt shingles, but with the added benefits that only metal roofing can provide-durability, low maintenance and even energy savings in certain climates.”
Broad Way World reports that the four top reasons homeowners select metal roofing, on an international scale, are longevity, strength, attractiveness, and investment value.
Domestically, the newest issue of Metal Construction News, published in February 2017, featured an in-depth look into the growth of the U.S. metal roofing industry.
The article, written by Paul Deffenbaugh, Editorial Director, featured an advice column for readers, practical roofing solutions, and tips on how to handle consumer interactions in a positive way.
“The function of the customer concierge, is to coordinate between the customer and the installer. Not just to review contracts, but to have a meeting of the minds,” said Frank Farmer, founder of American Metal Roofs.
Currently, the metal roofing market for residential homes has tripled over the last 18 years. In 1998, metal roofs held only a 3% share of the residential market, compared to 11% for 2016, and that trend looks like it will continue through 2017 and beyond.
