Making Money with Metal

By contrast, steel is North America’s number one recycled material. An old car, dishwasher or refrigerator can be recycled to re-roof a home, making metal a sustainable choice. All steel roofs contain a minimum of 25 percent recycled content, and many have a much higher percentage. Metal roofs can often be installed over an existing roof, omitting the need for tear-off and disposal of the old roof, typically asphalt shingles. And, at the end of its useful life, metal roofing is 100 percent recyclable.

Homeowners are also seeking energy-saving building materials for renovations and new homes. They are choosing products that not only secure and improve structures but also provide long-term cost-cutting on energy bills while promoting environmental and economic sustainability in the greater community. Many residential metal roofs now utilize reflective pigment technology, which results in overall home energy efficiency and lower utility costs.

Homeowner Perceptions

Like many homeowners, Barb and Tom Bruns of Wisconsin were dreading having to replace their roof. However, by working with an MRA contractor, Metal Roofing Systems, Madison, Wis., the Bruns found the process quick and painless and are raving about the results.

“We love our new metal roof. It turned out more beautiful than we had ever imagined!” exclaims Barb Bruns. “I must say it’s one of the best home improvements we have made to our 21-year-old home. Our house now has a real wow factor that's even visible from down the street.”

Comments like those made by the Bruns make Metal Roofing Systems' owner, Jack Gugger, proud of his team and the product line he sells. (His company has been an MRA contractor member since 2006.) After working as a general home improvement contractor for many years, Gugger changed his business model to take advantage of the growth opportunities in the metal roofing industry.

“The kitchen and bath business was very complex and time-intensive as it involved multiple choices for each project,” Gugger says. “The competitive landscape is also very cluttered in the home improvement market. Now that my company focuses on metal roofs, my overhead is lower, and I offer a unique product that is frankly simpler to sell. All homes need a roof, while not everybody needs an addition or an updated kitchen.”

Like Gugger, roofing contractors across North America are seeing the evidence of metal’s popularity. The demand for metal roofing has never been greater, and savvy contractors are adding crews to keep up with the increased interest in metal.