Metal roofing sector sees growth opportunities

The Portland, Oregon-based Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) cites several reasons why steel and other metals can gain market share from asphalt shingles in the United States roofing market.

In a list of questions and answers prepared this month by the MRA, the organization cites recyclability as one of several advantages of metal roofing materials.

“Beyond lasting longer, metal can be recycled at the end of its very long life rather than being dumped into the landfill,” the MRA says. “It is estimated that more than 13 million tons of asphalt shingles get dumped in landfills each year.”

The group says metal roofing often can be installed right over asphalt roofs that still are in decent shape but need to be replaced, preventing tear-off and landfill costs.

The MRA also cites resistance to severe weather as another favorable factor of metal roofing.

At a December 2024 insurance sector meeting, Michael Yaworsky, commissioner of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, questioned the future of insurability of new asphalt shingle roofs in Florida, according to a Palm Beach Post report.

“It’s probably time to look past asphalt shingles,” Yaworsky tells the Post. “Maybe it’s time to start writing them out of the plot in Florida.”

The MRA ranks metal roofing as second in roofing market share in the U.S. and Canada, but says “its popularity is popping,” in part because of devastating climate events ranging from hurricanes in Florida and the Gulf coast to wildfires in California and the Western states.

“In hurricane, tornado and thunderstorm regions, metal roofs are the gold standard for protecting a home, [with some] rated to stand up to F2 tornado wind speeds," the group says.

In wildfire prone areas, the MRA says properly installed metal roofs offer Class A protection against ignition, the highest possible rating, and in wintry weather, metal roofs “naturally shed snow and ice while helping prevent ice damming, and they have the strength to support heavy snow loads.”

What do demolition contractors and metals recycling companies encounter when metal roofs reach the end of their lives?

The MRA says metal roofing can be made of steel, aluminum, copper and zinc, with galvanized steel including a zinc layer.

“Aluminum also is a great choice especially for coastal climates, and copper and zinc are stunningly beautiful, often used for high end projects and to highlight architectural details,” the MRA says.