GRID NY

Expert Q&As

May 3
Q&A: Bill Hippard, President Metal Roofing Alliance Posted By Anne Pyburn Craig
Bill Hippard, President Metal Roofing Alliance

In 1998, some of the people involved in metal roofing decided to cooperate and educate people about the benefits of their product. They did a really good job, to understate the case- they managed to get that product written into the recently passed stimulus bill without- to the best of MGB's knowledge- even one Congressman objecting in order to get some on-camera time. President Bill Hippard explains why below.

What are the environmental advantages of a metal roof?

Metal roofs are made from recycled scrap metal, making them a very eco-friendly choice for homes. The minimum recycled content of a metal roof is 28%, but can be much higher, depending on the manufacturer. So, your old car or washing machine could be made into a durable metal roof. At the end of a metal roof’s long life span it will be 100% recyclable.

As an added bonus for re-roofing projects, metal roofing can often be applied over the original roof, saving removal and disposal costs and reducing the 22 billion pounds of landfill waste created by discarded asphalt shingles every year.

By manufacturing new products using recycled materials, the members of the MRA are closing the loop on recycling programs, and conserving natural resources.

Is installing a metal roof extremely expensive?

In fact, metal roofing has a very low life cycle cost – that’s why we call it investment grade roofing.

The typical asphalt shingle roof has to be replaced approximately every 15 to 20 years, making it a short-term solution with a long-term environmental impact.
Metal roofs often outlast the home they’re on, require no maintenance and are 100% recyclable at the end of their useful life

As a result of the new stimulus package, homeowners who make energy efficient updates to their home, including the installation of a painted or coated Energy Star® labeled metal roof, may be eligible for a tax credit worth 30% of the material costs, up to $1,500 per home. To qualify, the metal roof must be installed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.

In addition to earning a tax credit, Energy Star-labeled metal roofs keep homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, resulting in lower utility costs. Some insurance companies even offer discounts for homes with a metal roof.

Since metal roofs are an investment grade product, home appraisal guides now recognize the added value of a home by adding almost $1.50 per square foot to the appraised value.

Why aren't metal roofs even more commonly installed? Is there misinformation out there that might cause people to overlook the possibilities?

There are some outdated perceptions of metal roofs as rusty or loud during the rain. In fact, modern metal roofs feature sophisticated coatings and paint systems to ensure a beautiful, durable finish. And, a properly installed metal roof is no louder than any other product.

Because they can look like any other roof product, many people don’t recognize modern metal roofs.

Can a metal roof be a beautiful roof?

Yes, there are a variety of styles to meet many different applications. Today's residential metal roofing can be made to look exactly like common roofing material - such as asphalt shingle, cedar shake, clay tile or slate roofing - only stronger and more durable. Some people prefer the look of standing seam metal roofs, which are available in a rainbow of colors.

For an overview of the different types of roofing, visit www.metalroofing.com

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Previous post: Q&A: Tony Kettle, Designer RMJM Architects www.mi-loft.comNext post: Q&A: James J. Dixon, P.E. Vice President, Energy Services ConEdison Solutions

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