If you’re considering installing a new metal roof, you may have some doubt with all the preconceived notions out there. There are several common misconceptions and myths about metal roofing, and we’re here to debunk them all at once.
Myth #1: Metal Roofs Are Too Noisy
One of the biggest misconceptions about metal roofs is that they’ll be extremely loud in the rain. While this may have been true one hundred years ago, or for metal roofs on barns, it’s not the case today. Metal panels aren’t just slapped down onto your home’s frame. With the layers of wood decking and underlayment, plus the insulation in your home’s attic, you can sleep comfortably knowing you won’t hear the pounding of rain during thunderstorms.
Myth #2: Metal Roofs Rust
The only way your metal roof will rust today is if you choose a finish like Weathering Steel, which is meant to rust to a certain point. Otherwise, you can expect your roof to resist rusting just as well as other materials. With advances in paint systems and other technologies, your metal roof will stay intact and resist oxidation and rusting for decades to come.
Myth #3: Metal is Too Heavy for My Home
While some forms of metal, like copper, are heavy, metal roofs are actually a more lightweight option for roofing than materials like slate and clay. Aluminum and steel roofs do not require a pre-installation structural assessment, where those other materials do. They don’t add any extra pressure to your structure and, as an added bonus, working with lightweight materials makes installation easier too.
Myth #4: Metal Roofing is Outdated
If you’ve ever seen an old farm or ranch barn with rusty or old-looking metal roofs, this may be why you think they’re outdated. However, today, there are tons of color and style options for all kinds of different design tastes. If you want modern and sleek style, Standing Seam roofs are a great option. If you’re aiming for rustic or country-chic, classic Corrugated panels are the way to go. From cabins in the mountains to the city suburbs, metal roofs are far from outdated.
Myth #5: Metal Roofs Will Dent
You would be surprised at how much force it takes to dent or puncture a metal roof — especially when you incorporate strong gauges, or thickness. Choosing any type of Corrugated panel will help deflect and even hide any imperfections.
Myth #6: Metal Roofs Attract Lightning
As a non-combustible material and a conductor of electricity, metal roofs are actually less susceptible to lightning strikes than you may think. Lightning looks for the path of least resistance. Whatever’s closest to the sky is what it’s attracted to.
Myth #7: A Metal Roof Will Increase My Air Conditioning Bill
This preconceived notion comes from the idea, and myth, that metal roofs will get extremely hot. The truth is quite the opposite. Metal roofing will actually help lower your energy bills because they have energy efficient qualities. The paint systems on metal roof today actually have reflective qualities, so they won’t absorb the sun’s UV rays. Homeowners who install metal roofs can expect to save up to 25% on their annual heating and cooling costs.
