Weathering the storm

By Anna Lockhart.  

Metal roofing materials are designed to be reliable and durable through Mother Nature’s most extreme weather events. Metal experts break down ways metal roofs can be the industry’s answer.   

In a recent Coffee Conversations®, host Karen Edwards sat down with metal industry experts to discuss the ways in which increasingly extreme weather events are impacting the metal roofing market. As climate change and harsh weather conditions become a frequent concern, it is critical that roofing systems and materials are up to the challenge of withstanding such disasters. Renee Ramey, executive director of the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), and Stefan L. Boyer, co-owner of Metal Roofing Headquarters, share insights into how the superior performance and sustainability of metal materials can be a key driver for a safer, more secure future.  

Home and building owners across the United States have seen an alarming increase in wildfires, hurricanes and severe storms in recent years, and these extreme weather events are looking like the new normal. Industry experts are zeroing in on finding reliable solutions, roofing materials that can withstand and outlast such weather events. The resounding answer? Metal.  

“With metal, you get the durability factor, and you’ve also got an environmentally friendly aspect, too. They go hand in hand,” said Stefan. “In a severe weather event like a hurricane or hailstorm, how is the [roof] going to perform, and how well is it going to weather over time? Metal roofing is by far the best option when looking at both of those considerations.” 

In consideration of the impact of climate change and how sustainable practices can help prevent worsening the environment, roofs using shingles and other non-recyclable materials are not the responsible option. On the other hand, metal roofs are recyclable and energy efficient, making them an ideal solution for owners looking for an eco-conscious and economic solution. 

Educating homeowners of such benefits has become a major initiative for the MRA, sharing valuable resources and guides to selecting the best roofing materials based on regional factors and weather events. Renee shared, “As severe weather events have become more impactful and frequent in recent years, we’ve focused on educating on a regional basis, highlighting what should be considered when you’re selecting a roof based on where you live.” 

“Regional weather concerns, paired with the challenges we’ve seen occurring with insurance companies, it’s really hard to argue against choosing a metal roof because of the durability it provides,” Renee emphasized. As insurance rates skyrocket and companies become increasingly difficult to work with in providing adequate or fair policies, advocating for metal roofing options as the most reasonable solution is paramount.  

Listen to the conversation or Watch the webinar to learn more about what the experts have to say about metal roofing and the fight against extreme weather conditions.