Metal Roofing Soars in Popularity Among US Homeowners

Staff Report

Tuesday, October 3rd, 2017

You may need one now, or you may need one soon.  Either way, homeowners have more options today when replacing their roofs, including quality metal roofing.  New industry data from an independent market study shows the market share for residential metal re-roofing jumped to 14% in 2016 -- an increase of 3 points since 2015.  According to the study, homeowners are choosing metal roof for a variety of reasons:  overall attractiveness, longevity, strength and sustainability.  Consumers are also finding that metal roofs add value to their home.  The Metal Roofing Alliance has been educating consumers about the benefits of metal roofs since 1998, when market share for metal was just over 3%.  Through education and testimonials, more homeowners are realizing the benefits of metal roofing.

Standing seam metal roofs continue to be the most popular style followed closely by shingle, shake and tile metal roofs that mimic the style of traditional roofing with added strength and durability.   Metal offers a wide variety of colors and finishes to match any style of home.

"When it's time to reroof, more homeowners than ever are choosing metal," states Renee Ramey, executive director of the MRA.  "Savvy consumers have done their homework, and know that a quality metal roofing system will reduce energy costs and provide decades of protection.  In addition, quality metal roofs hold up very well during extreme weather conditions including heavy snow, high winds, heavy rain and wildfires."

Susannah Hodges, a broker for Provence Realty Group that's building a new residential development in Shreveport, Louisiana has seen this trend first hand.   "Our homeowners are looking for high-end design and low maintenance.  We celebrate the metal roof here.  Today's homeowners are well-educated on the impact building materials can have on our environment.  They're looking for building products that are eco-friendly and will save them money in the long run."

The industry market study also revealed that in some areas of the country, metal has an even larger market share.  For example, in the East South Central region (which includes Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee) 30% of homeowners now choose metal when re-roofing.   The members of the Metal Roofing Alliance expect the trend to continue to grow nationwide.