There are quite a few myths about metal roofing that have spread from homeowner to homeowner over the years. Most of these myths were started by roofing contractors who specialize in materials other than metal. Essentially, they have a financial incentive to talk you out of having a metal roof installed.
As a roofing company who works with many materials like asphalt shingles, wood and metal roofing in MN, we aren’t partial towards any particular material. There are pros and cons to each material. In the end, it’s up to you to decide which is best for your home.
What does concern us are lies, half truths and common myths regarding metal roofing. If you are looking for the truth about metal roofing, don’t believe these common metal roofing myths.
Myth 1: Metal Roofs Are Only for Commercial Buildings
Metal roofs are not just for commercial building owners. While they are more commonly seen on commercial structures, they have been quickly gaining in popularity among homeowners because of their many benefits.
Myth 2: Metal Roofs Cost More
One of the most frequently asked questions about roofing materials is how much they cost. The higher cost of metal roofing materials is not as much a myth as it is a half truth. Metal roofs do cost more upfront, but their longevity actually makes them the smartest investment in the long term. Asphalt shingles will last about 15-20 years (depending on weather conditions and how well they are maintained), metal roofing can last anywhere from 40-60 years or more. Your roof will last 2-3 times longer, but won’t cost you 2-3 times more.
If you are going to be staying in your house for a long time, metal roofing will give you the best return on your investment.
Myth 3: Metal + Lighting = Bad News
This is a myth that is just a simple misunderstanding of physics. It’s true that metal conducts electricity, but it doesn’t attract it like two opposite poles of a magnet. Lighting will be no more drawn to your metal roof than any other structure in your neighborhood.
Lighting tends to hit the tallest object in the area, which is why things like trees, power lines and water towers are struck more often than anything else. If you live in an area that experiences heavy lightning storms, there is nothing to worry about. In the event that your home is hit by lightning, it’s energy will be evenly distributed throughout the structure without damaging it or setting your roof ablaze.
Myth 4: Metal Roofs Make Your House Warmer in Summer
This is a myth that stems from a good understanding of physics, but it doesn’t tell the whole story of how it relates to your home. Metal is a very good conductor of heat, but wood is not. Your metal roof may heat up in the summer, but the wood and insulation placed underneath do a good job of insulating against that heat.
Bottom line: the heat gathered by your metal roof will not affect the temperature of your house. Some studies have even shown that structure with metal roofs remain cooler on hot days.
Myth 5: Metal Roofs Make Your House Colder in Winter
For the same reasons as stated above, this myth about metal roofing is patently untrue.
Myth 6: Rain Hitting Metal Roof Will Echo Throughout Your Home
If you’ve ever stood in a shed or a warehouse during a rainstorm, you can definitely attest to the loud sound the rain makes when it hits the metal roof. But this phenomenon does not carry over to the metal roofs that are installed on residential housing, which can actually be quieter than those made of other roofing materials.
Myth 7: Hail Can Easily Dent a Metal Roof
It takes a lot to damage a metal roof. Metal is, without a doubt, the most sturdy roofing material on the market. Your metal roof will be less susceptible to damage during hailstorms.*
*While sturdy, they aren’t impervious to damage. There are cases in which very large hail has damaged metal roofs.
Myth 8: Metal Roofs Rust Over Time
This may have been true way back when, but the materials used in metal roofs nowadays are far more advanced than they used to be. Metal roofs are made of corrosion-resistant alloys, many of which carry warranties of up to 50 years. You can ask your roofing contractor about the manufacturer’s warranty on the brand of materials they use.
Myth 9: You Can’t Walk on Metal Roofing
We aren’t exactly sure where or why this myth started, but you most certainly can walk on your metal roof (to clean gutters, etc.) without worrying about damaging it. You can speak with your contractor about the best ways to walk on and care for your roof.
Do You Have More Questions or Concerns About Metal Roofing?
We are always happy to answer any and all questions. If you are curious about pricing, contact Schmidt Roofing today for a free quote.
