When planning for a new roof, metal might not be the first material that comes to mind. However, metal roofs are quickly gaining popularity for all of the eco-friendly benefits they add to your home, along with their extreme longevity in both beauty and durability. Below, we’ve listed the top five ways your home will benefit from a metal roof, and why you need to consider the shiny stuff during your next home renovation.

1) Longevity

Metal roofs have by far the longest lifespan out of any other material. Asphalt and wood shingles require costly upkeep and only last for about 15-20 years — not to mention that they’re also prone to rot and leaks. Metal roofs, on the other hand, require little to no maintenance throughout their lifespan, which is typically 70 years or more. So, while the upfront cost may be more than other materials, you’ll be saving a lot more money over time. In fact, many historic buildings in the United States still have their original metal roofs, which is a true testament to their staying power!

2) Energy-Efficiency

With the right combination of material and paint color, metal roofing can have up to 95% solar reflexivity (compared to about 5% for asphalt singles), which means it won’t absorb as much heat from the sun. This means your home will stay cooler in the summer, which will help keep that energy bill nice and low. In addition, many metal roofs also come with a UV coating to help slow aging of the material and keep it even more protected from wear and tear.

3) Eco-Friendly Benefits

Many metal roofs on the market are made with recycled materials, as much as 95% in some cases. Plus, the metal can be recycled again after its life as a roof is up. Compare that with asphalt and wood shingles, which end up in landfills and cannot be recycled. The manufacturing of metal roofing also produces fewer emissions and takes less energy than with other materials, making its carbon footprint quite small. Plus, the fact that scraps can be recycled means there is little to no waste in the manufacturing process. When it comes to eco-friendly roofing, metal is as green as it gets!

4) Damage and Wear-Resistance

Another key advantage of metal roofing is that it is extremely resistant to the elements. Unlike wood and asphalt shingles, a metal roof won’t wear or corrode and need to be replaced for several decades. Metal roofs can also withstand extremely high winds without damage, and because they’re very lightweight, they can help protect the structural integrity of your home during adverse weather. Metal roofs also are resistant to fire, and won’t spark or ignite due to lightning strikes. And, because of the tight seals caused by the roof’s interlocking design, you won’t have to worry about any critters getting through.

5) Impervious to Moisture

Metal shingles and roofing panels are interlocked in such a way that the roof becomes virtually impervious to moisture. This helps prevent mold, rot, and other water damage to your home and helps ensure that no leaks spring up when it rains. In addition, this material is a perfect option for homes in areas that experience heavy snowfall, as dark metal roofs melt snow faster, and the slippery nature of the material prevents it from piling up and weighing on the house.

Now that you’ve learned some of the benefits of metal roofing, think about the environment surrounding your home and how a metal roof can help prevent issues that other materials may cause. While the upfront investment may be costlier than wood and asphalt shingles, the overall longevity, low maintenance, and eco-friendly benefits a metal roof provides not only saves you money in the long run, they also protect the health of your home for decades to come.