How Steel Roofing Reduces Your Carbon Footprint Compared to Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to choosing roofing materials, most homeowners focus on durability and cost—but sustainability matters too. If you're looking to lower your home’s environmental impact, your roof is a great place to start. So, how does steel roofing compare to asphalt shingles when it comes to reducing your carbon footprint?

Asphalt Shingles: Short Lifespan, Higher Waste

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S., but they come with a significant environmental cost:

• Short lifespan of 15–25 years means more frequent replacements
• Often end up in landfills—over 11 million tons of shingle waste annually
• Made from petroleum-based products, contributing to fossil fuel emissions
• Absorb heat, raising energy use for cooling in warmer months

In short, the carbon footprint of asphalt roofing is higher due to energy-intensive materials, shorter service life, and lack of recyclability.

Steel Roofing: Durable, Recyclable, and Energy-Efficient

Steel roofing offers a much more sustainable alternative:

• Lasts 40–70+ years, reducing the need for replacement and waste
• Made from up to 80% recycled content and fully recyclable at end-of-life
• Lightweight, reducing shipping emissions
• Available in cool roof finishes that reflect solar heat and lower cooling costs
• Non-toxic and free of petroleum-based material

Choosing steel means fewer resources used over time and less waste in the long run.

	Asphalt Shingles	Steel Roofing
Average Lifespan	15–25 years	40–70+ years
Recyclable	Rarely	100%
Material Source	Petroleum-based	Recycled steel
Heat Reflection	Low	High (cool roof options)
Waste Generation	High (landfill)	Low (recyclable)

The choice is clear—steel roofing has a lower environmental impact and offers long-term benefits for both your home and the planet.

Lower Your Carbon Footprint with EDCO Steel

EDCO’s steel roofing systems are engineered to deliver sustainability without compromise. From recycled materials and energy savings to extreme durability, our products are designed for homeowners who care about performance and the environment. Explore our steel roofing collections and see how you can protect your home—and the planet—at the same time.

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