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In NYC and trying to figure out less toxic (low or no voc) alternative to asphalt shingles.
Noticed many different brands of metal roofing, some with coatings etc.
Just getting very confused. Metal sounds safe but "coatings" etc... seem worrisome.
Looking for as voc free an installation as possible (includes all materials, any underlayment etc ) would consider aluminum as well as any other metal that fit a low voc profile
Was hoping for some specific suggestions that I could test for tolerance in order to guide installer.
thanks
10/13/2018
The coatings on the vast majority of metal roofs are going to be extremely stable and in most cases, suitable for rainwater collection and potability once treated for any microbials.
If you have a particular style of metal roof you are looking toward, you can talk to that specific manufacturer to see what their chemistry is like.
Based on a proximity to salt water, aluminum may actually be the correctly specified product in this case.
An informed customer is the Best Customer!
10/13/2018
Adding on to what Eric said ... I am curious ... are you seeking this just from an environmental standpoint or for someone with chemical sensitivity?
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
10/13/2018
@Todd Miller
Hi Todd
Yep, Chemical Sensitivities are the issue. In fact we have found many "green" products are not "human safe" if you have that condition.
If you have any particular info on shingles/ roofing components that are often safer for people with chemical allergies would appreciate your input.
10/14/2018
do you know of any metal shingles that have the look of asphalt shingles? we are not redoing the entire overhang just the new portion - doesn't have to blend but would like to try
10/14/2018
Loretta, over the years I have worked with a few folks with chemical sensitivity ... a couple of very severe cases amongst them. We have generally found painted metal is a good fit due to very minimal outgassing and also due to not supporting mold and mildew. I can send a small sample piece of painted metal if that would be a helpful test.
Sometimes we have to think a bit more about the roofing underlayment, even though it is "buried" in the roof system. I have seen good luck with some of the newer synthetic products compared to oil-based product but every person will be difference I suppose.
There are products out there that look like shingles, both painted products and stone-coated products. For the chemical sensitivity, my experience is that painted will be better. Look into products like ATAS International, Classic Metal Roofing Systems, Edco, Green American Home, Ideal, Interlock, and Kassel & Irons.
Please let me know how I might help further. My email address is [email protected]
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
10/14/2018