Sustainability of Metal Roofing

As more people become aware of the impact of industrial growth and rising energy consumption, we’re seeing a real shift toward sustainability—not just in big business, but also at the individual level. Everyone’s looking for smarter ways to conserve natural resources and protect the health of our planet for generations to come.

The EPA defines environmental sustainability as “meeting today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” That responsibility applies to all of us—including the building industry.

Why Roofing Matters in Sustainability

When it comes to creating more sustainable homes and buildings, the type of roof you choose can make a big difference. And metal roofing is leading the charge.

Take asphalt shingles, for example. They’re affordable and easy to find, which is why they’ve been the go-to for years. But they’re also one of the least eco-friendly options out there. Made from crude oil and chemicals, asphalt shingles typically end up in landfills after just 12–20 years—and they take hundreds of years to break down. Some landfills even charge extra to dispose of them.

Other materials like shake or slate may seem more sustainable, but they come with hidden downsides. Shake roofing is only considered eco-friendly if it comes from a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified manufacturer. And both shake and slate are heavy, so you’ll pay more to ship them, and your home may need extra structural support to hold the weight.

Why Metal Roofing Stands Out

Metal roofing offers a smart, environmentally friendly alternative. It’s lightweight—less than half the weight of asphalt shingles—which means easier shipping and potentially lighter structural demands. In many cases, metal panels can even be installed over an existing roof, keeping old materials out of landfills.

Here’s why more and more homeowners and builders are choosing metal:

Recyclability

Metal roofing is made from a high percentage of recycled materials—and it’s 100% recyclable at the end of its life. That means nearly zero waste. By contrast, the EPA estimates that 11 million tons of asphalt shingles are disposed of in landfills each year.

Learn more about American steel recyclability here.

Longevity

According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofs last 2–3 times longer than traditional asphalt shingles—up to 60 years or more. And unlike asphalt, which often needs repairs and patching as it ages, metal roofs hold up with minimal maintenance.

For many homeowners, that means one roof for life—plus a potential boost to their resale value, depending on the market.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs are naturally reflective, meaning they bounce sunlight away and stay cooler than other materials. This helps reduce the energy needed to heat and cool your home. While other roofing options lose reflectivity over time, metal roofs retain up to 95% of their reflective properties.

And if you're considering adding solar panels, metal makes it easier. You can install panels without poking holes in the roof.

Durability

Metal roofs don’t shrink, crack, or erode. They’re Class 4 impact-rated, meaning they’re built to stand up to hail, high winds, fire, and storms. All it takes is a quick inspection once a year to keep things in good shape.