The Metal Roofing Alliance recently announced that the $500 tax credit available to homeowners who install an Energy StarŪ labeled metal roof in 2009 has been increased to $1500, following the government's passing of the new Stimulus Package. The tax credit is retroactive to the beginning of 2009 and will continue through December 31, 2010.

Key points regarding the tax credit for metal roofing include:

• Only metal roofs labeled Energy Star qualify
• The metal roof must be installed between 1/1/2009 and 12/31/2010
• The credit applies only to the cost of materials, not installation costs

• Resistance to fire, mildew, insects, and rot (Class A fire rating)
• Warranties up to 50 years
• Lightweight materials
• Can be installed over existing roofing, cutting down on installation costs and saving on landfill clutter
• Energy efficient design utilizes dead space between roof deck and metal, reflecting the sun's radiant heat
• Leak resistant on gently pitched roofs

Living With Your Investment
A new metal roof is a major investment. Because you will live with your new metal roof for many years, it is crucial to carefully choose your roofing contractor. Specifically, choose a metal roofing contractor with the right experience in the application of metal roofing, which is a specialty requiring a certain set of skills and tools traditional roofers generally do not have. Always choose a metal roofing contractor with at least three years of installation experience.

Metal roofing materials are generally constructed from aluminum and steel. Other materials, including copper and alloys, are sometimes used. Standing seam roofing, manufactured in sheets, is a favorite choice of architects because of its contemporary appearance and clean lines. However, some metal roofing products imitate more traditional roofing materials, such as Spanish tiles, slate, and wood shakes, and topcoats of granulated-stone complete the look beautifully. And while metal roofing may be initially pricier than asphalt-fiberglass or wood shingles, the warranties alone are enough to dramatically increase the popularity of metal roofing, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association.

Energy-Efficient. Durable. Lightweight. Beautiful. Metal roofing is today's best roofing option for homeowners who want to protect the planet and their budgets. Please contact us today to learn about metal roofing for your home.