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Post created by: https://newtechmachinery.com/learning-center/saving-the-earth-with-metal-roofing-part-3-tax-rebates-and-leed-credits/ As the demand for sustainable building materials increases, the metal construction industry is perfectly situated to provide eco-friendly cool roofs and siding that may qualify consumers for tax rebates and LEED credits. While metal roofs cost roughly two to three times more than roofs with asphalt shingles, tax rebates and LEED credits can help offset the higher price. At New Tech Machinery (NTM), we believe metal contractors and manufacturers contribute to environmental conservation. Metal roofing and siding reduce landfill waste and carbon footprint, creating inherently more energy-efficient and eco-friendly structures. NTM’s portable rollforming machines also do their part to lower emissions, producing less material waste and reducing transportation costs as the panels are run on-site. In Part 3 of the three-part series Saving the Earth With Metal Roofing, you will learn: What makes metal eco-friendly LEED standards LEED points What are “Heat Islands” ? Cool roofs Solar reflectance, thermal emittance, and Solar Reflective Index (SRI) Tax credits and rebates The environmental benefits and cost savings of portable rollformers Why is Metal Eco-Friendly? Metal roofs are comprised of at least 25% recycled material and can be recycled 100% an infinite number of times, as explored in Part Two of the Saving the Earth With Metal Roofing series. They keep indoor temperatures cooler, last longer, and require little maintenance. As discussed in Part One on fire resistance, they’re also preferred in fire-prone areas. On the other hand, according to the National Association of Homebuilders Research Center , 10 million tons of asphalt shingles are dumped in landfills every year. Asphalt’s carbon footprint is excessive, not only in the manufacturing of this petroleum product but even in use; hot days bring out the carbon emissions from asphalt due to solar radiation. While they are working on recycling asphalt shingles, the goal is set at only 1% by 2030. Therefore, the shingles will continue to pile up in landfills at nearly the same rate for the foreseeable future. For more on this, see Part 2 in this series .  LEED Standards The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the governing body behind Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications, outlines the framework for LEED standards. Their goal is to encourage energy-efficient buildings that offer environmental, health, and societal benefits. LEED v5 is the latest draft; however, it is still in progress as stakeholders provide feedback. In the interim, refer to LEED v4.1. for checking eligibility of LEED points for metal roofing and siding. Contribution to LEED Points Check out the LEED rating points for metal roofing here . These LEED points can also apply to metal siding, like heat island reduction, based on the same criteria. LEED recognizes when a building or community uses materials to maximize energy efficiency and sustainability. LEED structures may qualify for rebates and other incentives and can increase property value. What’s a “Heat Island”? We’ve all seen images of emergency workers opening fire hydrants in inner cities so that children can cool off under the spray of water on hot summer days. The heat radiating from the streets, along with the trapped air and a lack of vegetation and green spaces, all contribute to the increase in temperature. These hot spots have become known as heat islands. According to the Green Building Alliance (GBA) , heat islands occur in densely populated urban areas. Compared to surrounding areas, temperatures can rise to 5.4 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and up to 22 degrees Fahrenheit in the evenings. Indoors, the temperature also increases, as 90% of roofs in the U.S. are heat-absorbing, and most home heat enters through the roof. Image courtesy of Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) Cool Roofs Cool roofs like standing seam metal address this phenomenon due to their reflectivity, providing a cooler indoor environment. This contrasts with heat-absorbing roofing materials like asphalt shingles, which do little to reflect solar radiation and drive up energy consumption. GBA reports that cool metal roofs reflect as much as 70% of solar energy away from the building, whereas materials like asphalt shingles reflect only 5% to 30% of the sun’s energy, depending on the color of the shingles. Lowering HVAC energy usage will lessen the carbon footprint by reducing the burning of fossil fuels to generate power. This means less greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality. GBA reports that 40% less energy is used with a cool roof. Solar reflectance, thermal emittance, and Solar Reflective Index (SRI) Solar Reflectance (SR) Solar reflectance relates to how much solar energy is reflected off the roof’s surface, measured on a decimal scale between 0 and 1, where 0 is the truest black, and 1 is the truest white. For LEED v4, solar reflectance for a low-sloped roof (≤ 2:12) is greater than or equal to an initial value of 0.65. After three years, its solar reflectance is measured as greater than or equal to 0.50. For a steep-sloped roof (>2:12), the initial solar reflectance should be greater than or equal to 0.25 and, after three years, greater than or equal to 0.15. Heat islands occur in densely populated urban areas. Thermal Emittance (TE) A material’s thermal emittance will determine how much heat it will radiate. Any surface exposed to radiant energy will increase in temperature until it reaches a point where it gives off as much heat as it receives, known as thermal equilibrium. A high emittance surface will reach thermal equilibrium at a lower temperature. A low emittance surface will not radiate the heat as quickly. So, the higher a roof’s thermal emittance, the less heat is retained within the roof, and the less heat is absorbed into the building. Like solar reflectance, thermal emittance is measured on a scale from 0% to 1%. Solar Reflective Index (SRI) The SRI combines SR and TE to indicate a roof’s overall ability to return solar energy to the atmosphere. When placed under the same conditions, roofing surfaces with a higher SRI will remain cooler than surfaces with a lower SRI. In other words, a metal roof should measure a high SRI, while a conventional roof will rate at a low SRI. SRI is calculated using the SR and TE, measured in values between 0 and 100. The SRO combines SR and TE into one number used to rate the material’s LEED performance. LEED requires roofing materials to have an SRI of 29 or more for steep-slope roofs and more than 78 on low-slope roofs. Manufacturers should be able to provide documentation. If not, you can have SRI testing performed in a lab. Image courtesy of Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) LEED Credit Benefits Tax incentives—Many states offer programs to encourage energy efficiency through LEED. Increasing energy efficiency is good for the environment and saves your customers money on energy bills. Since metal roofs keep buildings cooler in the summer, less demand on the HVAC system means more savings. Increases property value—A metal roof can increase a home’s value by up to 6%. For example, on a $500,000 home, that’s a $30,000 increase in value over a house with an asphalt shingle roof. A significant return on investment for your customers. Tax Credits and Rebates According to the National Association of Homebuilders , contractors who can show they can build homes that can withstand the impact of environmental hazards like strong winds and wildfires have a competitive advantage, as living in an area with these hazards can increase insurance rates significantly and leave the property owner at risk of loss. Builders and contractors can use this risk as a selling point for the benefits of metal when it comes to storms, fires, and natural disasters. This is especially true in the West where drought and severe heat have led to an increase in wildfires. As a result, home and business owners have become more conscious of the materials used to construct their buildings. In some high-hazard areas, insurance companies will refuse to cover homes and structures made of flammable materials such as wood siding and shingle roofs. Further, installing environmentally friendly materials like metal roofs and siding can result in other tax credits and benefits. As part of the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden-Harris administration allocated nearly $9 billion to states and tribes for homeowners who make their homes more energy efficient. Grants to states and local governments that apply to efforts that meet the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) can benefit builders and consumers. Also, home energy rebates and tax credits may be available if the home is improving its efficiency. HOMES Rebate Program: Provides over $4 billion to states for homeowners who renovate their homes to be more energy efficient. Eligible homeowners can receive $4,000 to $8,000 in rebates. Metal Roof Federal Tax Credit: This tax credit offers homeowners with metal roofs installed a 10% credit on the cost of the metal roof up to $500. Requirements: The metal roof must be installed on the homeowner’s primary residence. The metal roof must meet certain energy efficiency standards that meet or exceed requirements for reflectance and emissivity. The roof must be installed within the tax year for which the homeowner is claiming credit. The homeowner must have all proper documentation for the roof, including the manufacturer’s certification statement or testing results. The tax credit comes with certain limitations, so homeowners should consult with a tax professional to determine their eligibility and how much they can claim. To receive the credit, complete IRS form 5695. You will need your documentation. Then, you can add this to your tax return for credit. For additional information, click here . Keep in mind that the credit only applies to certain types of metal roofs that meet the energy requirements. Shingle, tile, ceramic, and many other types of roofs are not eligible for the credit. Portable Rollformers: Superior Eco Performance As industry leaders and seasoned experts in portable rollforming machines, New Tech Machinery is committed to staying informed and pioneering advancements. Promoting fire-resistant, environmentally friendly metal roofs and siding that can earn LEED credits and qualify for tax rebates drives us to think ahead, innovate, and continually evolve our products with you and your customers’ best interests at heart. Portable rollformers, like those made by NTM, provide the perfect fabrication option, as the panels are run onsite with little waste or energy expenditure. You can subtract transportation costs, panel loading and unloading, factory prices, fabrication costs, and more from your operating expenses. Additionally, tax credits are available for newly purchased rollforming machines through the Section 179 tax deduction . NTM offers a variety of profiles, including standing seam, exposed fastener, flush wall, and board-and-batten siding. Contact one of our account managers for more information on NTM portable rollformers or accessories.

Post created by: https://newtechmachinery.com/learning-center/saving-the-earth-with-metal-roofing-part-2-environmental-benefits/ Metal roofing is becoming well known for its environmental benefits that include recyclability, energy efficiency, and long life. As explored in Part One of the Saving the Earth With Metal Roofing series, it’s also known for its fire resistance. While asphalt shingles have been the go-to for consumers due to their low price, the environmental benefits of metal are starting to catch on as it becomes a popular choice among home and business owners. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions and last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance. This longer life minimizes waste and conserves resources, which is essential in sustainable building practices. At New Tech Machinery (NTM), we believe metal contractors and manufacturers do more than supply or install metal panels. Metal roofing and siding help to foster a healthy planet by reducing the use of disposable products ending up in landfills, oceans, and ecologically fragile areas. The environmental impact of standing seam should be a selling point for buyers deciding between materials as we move toward eco-friendly alternatives. In this second installment of the three-part Saving the Earth With Metal series we’ll look at: Asphalt shingles Metal Panels Energy efficiency and cost savings Lifespan of metal roofs Metal siding Asphalt Shingles Asphalt, first produced in the U.S. in 1893, is a byproduct of crude oil. Refining crude oil is a dirty process involving a sobering list of toxins released into the atmosphere. Anyone who’s been around a refinery has witnessed black smoke and scorching flames pouring out of smokestacks as excess gases and impurities burn off. Asphalt shingles are also composed of fiberglass. Petroleum refinement releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, and fiberglass production releases various toxins as well. Further, while asphalt roofs are inlaid on one side with mineral pebbles, they don’t contain the reflectivity of metal to keep the structure cooler. Researchers at Yale University found that asphalt, including roofs, emits hazardous pollutants on warm, sunny days, affecting air quality. In fact, not only warmth but solar radiation increases asphalt emissions at a steady rate. Comparatively, the American Iron and Steel Institute reports that producing steel today requires less than half the energy as 40 years ago, resulting in a 50% decrease in greenhouse emissions. Asphalt doesn’t naturally provide fire resistance, although it can be treated and tested to Class A. However, it’s vulnerable to strong winds and wind gusts, requires more maintenance than metal, and doesn’t last nearly as long. While metal costs more, it can save the consumer money in the long run due to tax rebates, reduced energy bills, less maintenance, and longer life. Asphalt is a petroleum product. Metal Roof Panels The manufacturing of metal roof panels is significantly more eco-friendly than asphalt. Plus, metal is 100% recyclable, whereas recycling shingles hasn’t really gotten off the ground yet. The 2030 goal is to have about 1% of shingles currently going to landfills each year rerouted to recycling centers. This means that out of the 12 million tons of discarded asphalt shingles, only 120,000 tons will be recycled. Factor in that it takes about 300 years for asphalt shingles to decompose and you get an idea of how they’re piling up in landfills at an unsustainable rate. Conversely, according to the Metal Construction Association (MCA), 60-80 million tons of steel are recycled annually in the U.S. Some steel products are 100% recycled. MCA cites a 2008 survey stating that aluminum used for flat-rolled construction products, like roof and wall panels, is comprised of 85% recycled material. Further, the process of producing aluminum from recycled materials takes up only 5% of the energy compared to producing it from new material. Copper is, on average, comprised of about 45% recycled material, while over 30% of zinc comes from recycled products. Metal panels are fabricated from at least 25% recycled material and remain 100% recyclable, even decades later. Metal can be recycled repeatedly, so its use never ends. Moreover, metal is cleaner and produces less waste, especially with a portable rollformer that runs panels on-site. While shingles must be cut, leaving the shavings to pile up, metal is fabricated according to custom measurements, reducing the waste produced. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings of Metal Roofing Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it, which can reduce cooling costs by 10% to 25%. This not only promises significant energy savings but also decreases the strain on HVAC systems, increasing a building’s overall energy efficiency. Over time, these savings contribute not only to a lower carbon footprint but also to impressive cost savings. Metal roofs’ energy efficiency makes them a perfect match for sustainable and net-zero-energy homes and buildings. Net-zero energy (NZE) homes produce as much or more energy as they consume annually, and a metal roof would be one component. NZE homes and buildings would also include energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy sources, continuous insulation, Energy Star doors and windows, and more. While not popular with everyone, NZE homes will appeal to a demographic that’s willing to invest in building green. The sticker price may scare some off, but federal and state tax incentives may be available. Check the University of North Carolina’s Database of Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency® to check the benefits in your state. Lifespan of Metal Roofs Not only is metal 100% recyclable but metal roofs last an average 50 to 70 years, whereas shingle roofs average 15 to 30 years, depending on the climate and type of shingles used. Many homeowners opt for cheaper shingle roofs to save money but end up paying more over time as the roofs need more frequent maintenance and replacement. Premium shingles can last as long as 30 years, but they are two or three times as costly as their less expensive counterparts. Wood shingles need annual maintenance and are at least as expensive as premium asphalt. Wood shingles can be treated for fire resistance but are nonetheless naturally susceptible to fire, which could cause problems with zoning ordinances and insurance coverage. Depending on the area, some insurers may refuse coverage for structures with wood shingle roofs. Also, wood tends to dry out and crack, and shingles may warp and need replacing. With standing seam metal roofs, the thicker the gauge, the stronger the roof. The 22 to 24 gauge is sturdy enough for cold climates with a lot of snow. While steel is stronger than aluminum, it costs more and isn’t necessary in most areas. Metal Siding Metal siding carries the same environmental benefits as roofing—it’s 100% recyclable and, with an R-value of .61, offers resistance against hot and cold air. Moreover, metal siding has made huge leaps in styles and designs. With weathered farmhouse patterns, various wood grains, and specialty colors and designs, metal siding offers nearly unlimited options. Like metal roofs, siding is low-maintenance, long-lasting, and durable. From barndominiums to rural structures to contemporary homes and apartment buildings, the demand for metal siding is surging. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but also compliments the appearance of any structure, whether it’s all metal or mixed materials. Metal roofs reflect heat, last longer, and require less maintenance. What My Customers Should Know Here are some talking points about the environmental benefits of metal: Metal is the world’s most recycled material. The ability to completely reuse it helps to limit the reliance on raw resources and reduces landfill waste. Life cycle assessments of metal roofs consistently show metal as a leading sustainable material for roofs and siding. Metal reflects solar radiant heat, keeping structures cooler on hot days and reducing energy costs by 10% to 25%. Metal lasts 50 to 70 years on average–decades longer than standard shingle roofs. Metal is naturally fire-resistant and requires very little maintenance. Metal is cleaner to produce, and doesn’t leave the carbon footprint of asphalt which, as a petroleum product, has very limited recycling capacity. While asphalt shingle roofs are undoubtedly cheaper, we hope that your customers begin to value metal for its many environmental benefits and how it will serve them in the long run with less maintenance costs, increased reflective properties, energy efficiency, and longer life. Portable rollformers, like those made by NTM , provide the perfect fabrication option as the panels are run onsite with little waste or energy expenditure. NTM offers a variety of profiles , including standing seam and exposed faster roofs and flush wall and board-and-batten siding. Contact one of our account managers for more information on NTM portable rollformers or accessories.

Post created by: https://newtechmachinery.com/learning-center/saving-the-earth-with-metal-roofing-part-1-fire-resistance/ Last year, raging fires destroyed much of Lahaina, a historic resort town located on the island of Maui. An image that quickly went viral showed the burnt remnants of homes once populating the scenic tropical coastline. Each had been reduced to ashes and debris except one—a nearly 100-year-old dwelling that just the year before was fitted with a standing seam metal roof . The Lahaina couple who owns the surviving home credits two reasons their house didn’t suffer the same fate as those surrounding it: Good luck and a metal roof. Lahaina before the fires At New Tech Machinery (NTM), we believe metal contractors and manufacturers do more than supply metal roofs and siding. They are laying a foundation for an era when metal is needed to protect structures in at-risk areas by providing durable, fire-resistant panels. This should be a selling point for home and business owners choosing between metal and other materials. Most metal contractors are aware of the possibility of heat combustion in fire-prone areas when it comes to asphalt shingle roofs. The Miracle House The Lahaina couple purchased their house in 2021 and finished restoring it the following year, tearing five layers of asphalt off the roof and replacing them with standing seam metal. During the fire, they watched as embers scattered across the sky, landing on and igniting asphalt roofs and engulfing homes in flames. In their case, however, metal acted as a deterrent, protecting their home from the onslaught of the firestorm. Since the tragic fire that claimed not only property but many lives, the red-roof home has been dubbed the “Miracle House” by several media outlets who’ve reported on it. Amazingly, wood comprises the rest of the structure and the owners had done nothing to fireproof it. The metal roof was enough to keep the miracle house intact. In the West, fire hazards have increased due to hotter temperatures and drought conditions. The Netflix documentary Fire in Paradise graphically depicts flames devouring a small California town in 2018, leaving nothing but ashes and casualties in its wake. Any structure comprised of flammable materials didn’t stand a chance. As these affected areas rebuild, metal should be a top priority for every builder and homeowner. Unlike asphalt and wood, metal is naturally fire-resistant. As 2023 was the warmest year since global records began in 1850 , we can expect more fires, especially in the Western U.S., where California, Colorado, Montana, and other states have experienced rashes of wildfires that have devasted homes and communities. According to Metal Roofing Alliance , every state in the West has experienced an increase in the number of severe wildfires per year for over a decade. As the lucky couple from Lahaina can tell you, metal is clearly the best option for homeowners looking to build in fire-risk areas. Likewise, homeowners who share environmental concerns can consider the waste produced by asphalt compared with the eco-friendliness of metal. Lahaina fires Metal Roofing: Class A Fire Rating While no type of roof is completely fireproof, metal roofing carries a Class A fire rating, the highest designation by industry standards, which is why it’s recommended by FEMA in fire-prone areas. Metal deflects heat and prevents the spread of flames. Aluminum and zinc alloy roofs are more fire-resistant than galvanized steel or copper, but all carry Class A ratings. Asphalt shingles can also receive a Class A fire rating. They must be tested to ASTM E108 or UL 790 standards and have a combustion temperature of over 650 degrees Fahrenheit. While metal is more naturally prone to fire resistance, consumers should confirm that their asphalt roofing has been tested to receive a Class A fire rating. Class B is resistant to at least 575 degrees Fahrenheit, while Class C offers little fire resistance with an ignition temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit or greater. In fire-prone areas, however, a Class A fire rating is a must. Limits of Fire Resistance Metal roofing does not need testing as it’s automatically categorized as Class A. However, because metal transfers heat, the framing or deck that is part of the roofing system must also be non-combustible. According to MBCI , If the metal roofing is installed over a combustible deck, the metal needs to be tested using ASTM E108 or UL 790. This rule does not apply to 16 oz/ sq. ft. or thicker copper, which can still be considered Class A without testing even when installed over combustible decks. While Class A designation isn’t always included in building codes, it may be required in some areas, like parts of California designated as wildfire zones. Also, standing seam roofs, because they lock together at the seams, are more protective than exposed fastener metal roofs. The Lahaina home had a standing seam metal roof. Along with metal roofing, other factors that can help prevent the spread of fire include fire-resistant doors, shutters, and siding. Also, landscaping around the perimeter of the home (referred to as zone one) should include rocks and non-flammable materials. Shrubs and smaller plants should be spread out in zone two. Zone three can contain large foliage, such as trees and larger plants. These provide some barrier between the structure and fire. Since flames jump, however, the landscaping can’t protect burning materials from landing on roofs. Metal roofing is becoming more popular, especially in dry, windy climates where fire hazards exist. In the mountains of Colorado, we’re seeing more luxury homes and condos fitted with metal roofs and siding. As the rebuilding of communities takes place, it should be a wide-open market for those in metal construction and a consideration for anyone building a home or renovating the one they have. Lahaina home after the fire The Bottom Line: Rebuilding With Metal It’s estimated that the rebuilding of homes in Lahaina will take years. There are a limited number of architects on the island, building codes are currently under review and will likely see changes, and permits take time to issue, especially given the high number of submissions. The government is working to lead the way while a group of developers has come up with a plan where homeowners can choose from one of five pre-approved house plan options. Pre-approval could save homeowners planning to rebuild thousands of dollars in design and permit costs. The plan is similar to that of the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety’s (LADBS) pre-approved list of homes . Most include metal roofing and siding. While Class A asphalt is an accepted option, it still requires testing. The benefits of metal roofs, such as their de facto Class A rating, long life, durability, and minimal required maintenance, should sway builders and homeowners to choose metal over asphalt. Metal Roofs and Portable Rollforming Portable rollformers provide savings to contractors and manufacturers by fabricating panels on-site. This cuts down on wait time, transportation costs, third-party manufacturing costs, and the risks of panel damage. Plus, you have less lost time. If a panel gets damaged or turns out to be the wrong size, you simply run another. No ordering and waiting for a new panel to arrive. Fabricating panels on-site means that you can provide the highest quality metal roofs that will help protect homes from fire damage, last for over 50 years, and require little maintenance. There are now more color and style varieties in metal than ever before. Metal construction is a growing industry offering contractors plenty of opportunities to make money. Metal roofs should be the go-to solution for anyone building in a fire-prone region. At NTM, we take pride in the quality of our portable rollforming machines and what our customers accomplish using them. We’re partners with contractors and manufacturers helping equip homes and businesses with durable, eco-friendly and fire-resistant metal roofs, siding, and seamless gutters. For more information about our machines or to speak to one of our knowledgeable account managers, contact us .

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