Here at Garvin Metal Roofs, we know first-hand that there are a lot of misconceptions out there when it comes to metal roofing. From concerns about metal roofs adding too much weight to the top of your house to worries that metal roofs attract lightning, we’ve heard them all. But there is one thing all these misconceptions have in common: they aren’t true!
Because metal roofing is our passion, we think it is important that these misconceptions are put to rest once and for all. This is why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to bust some of the most common myths we hear about metal roofing:
Myth: Metal roofing attracts lightning
It is easy to understand why people have this misconception. If your roof is made out of metal, it’s logical to think it is more likely to attract lightning. Luckily this is not the case, as metal roofs are no more or less likely to attract lightning than traditional asphalt or shingle varieties.
In fact, in the unlikely event that your home is struck by lightning, a metal roof will actually help to minimize any damage caused, as metal roofs allow the electricity from the lightning strike to spread out over a larger surface area. Metal roofs are also more fire-resistant than traditional roofing materials, protecting your home further.
Myth: Metal roofing is much more expensive than traditional materials
This myth does have a kernel of truth to it in that metal roofing does often come with a higher upfront cost than traditional asphalt roofing.
However, when you take into account that metal roofing can last two to three times longer than asphalt roofing, often requiring comparatively less upkeep during this period, you start to see the full picture. When you add to this that metal roofing has a greater level of energy efficiency, meaning you may not have to run your HVAC system as hard to keep you cool in summer or warm in winter, potentially saving money on your energy bills year on year, it becomes clear that in the long run, metal roofing is often a much more cost effective choice than asphalt.
Myth: Metal roofing makes rain sound much louder
This myth probably stems from the fact that metal roofing was originally used on agricultural buildings like barns and sheds, where the metal roof would have been installed directly onto an open frame, making the noise of rainfall seem louder.
When metal roofs are installed today, it is over a solid wood roof deck, which makes the noise of rainfall no louder than on traditional roofing materials.
Myth: Metal roofing doesn’t suit residential properties
Again, this stems from metal roofing’s historic use in agricultural buildings, where the focus was heavily placed on function over form. Today, metal roofing comes in a wide range of styles, finishes and colors. This means that no matter the type of building involved, you can be sure to find a metal roof that fits it like a glove.