Top 5 Metal Roofing Myths For Your Reading Pleasures!
It is truly fascinating how many people are clueless when it comes to the basic understanding of metal roofing. Not so long ago, I myself had in my mind the image of the old rusty roof of the barn. But now, having been involved with metal roofing for 6 years, I have developed a real appreciation for this roofing technology and would like to share some of my knowledge with you.
After reading these tips, you’ll gain a better understanding and appreciation of metal roofing technology.
Myth 1: The metal roof has a higher risk of being struck by lightning. Reality; Not having a metal roof does not increase the chances that your home will be struck by lightning. In fact, if your house is struck, the metal roof will help dissipate the charge, and because metal is a non-combustible material, your roof will not catch fire.
Myth 2: The metal roof makes a lot of noise when it rains.
Reality; You’re probably thinking of that old cheap metal roof over the barn that used to sound like a machine gun when it rained… Modern metal roofing is usually installed over plywood, solid siding, or over your existing roof. It won’t make any more noise than a normal asphalt shingle roof. Often the metal roof will be quieter than a non-metal roof and will shield noise from rain and bad weather.
Myth 3: Metal roofs cost a lot of money.
Reality; It may seem so, but it really isn’t! You may be surprised, but the metal roof actually costs less than an asphalt shingle roof if you stay on your home long enough. Not only will it increase the value of your home, but it will also help you save money on cooling costs. Metal roofs can generate up to 50% savings in energy costs during the summer months. And finally, the metal roof may well be the last roof you’ll ever have to install on your home. Ever! As long as you get a quality installation from a qualified metal roofing contractor. Learn from this hypothetical example of the cost of metal roofing vs. asphalt shingle roofing, from a homeowner’s point of view.
Myth 4: The metal roof is susceptible to rust.
Reality; Modern metal roofs are built to last for decades. Steel metal roofs have a protective layer of metal coating made with zinc or aluminum, which is bonded to the steel and then painted with a high-quality paint designed to withstand the harshest abuse of bad weather and deliver the color and the desirable appearance that homeowners desire.
Myth 5: The metal roof is susceptible to dents.
Reality; Modern metal roofs are built to withstand years of abuse from severe weather conditions like hail, extreme winds, and snow. Hail won’t dent a metal roof, and extremely high winds aren’t a threat either, as many modern metal roofing systems are rated for 120 mph winds. In fact, metal roofs work very well in the hurricane. It is not uncommon to see undamaged metal roofing next to regular bare roofs that have lost all their shingles and plywood in the hurricane.
While writing these 5 Metal Roofing Myths, another metal roofing myth occurred to me. This one in a bonus! Please enjoy!
Additional Myth: You can’t walk on a metal roof without damaging it.
Reality; While you should definitely take all the necessary precautions before venturing to walk on your roof, metal roofs are completely walkable. I would recommend wearing running shoes like Asics, because they will provide good traction for your feet when you’re on the roof. Avoid walking on your roof when it’s raining, as you could easily slip and fall. The general rule is to stay on the roof as long as its surface is wet. Contact your roofing contractor for special techniques on how to walk on the metal roof they have installed.
I hope you enjoyed reading my metal roofing tips and that you learned something new about metal roofing.
I would love to hear your comments and feedback on this article, as well as your request for another article on metal roofing. If you enjoyed reading this, feel free to rate my article at the bottom of this page.
