8 Metal Roofing Myths – Debunked!

Historically, we haven’t used metal on the roofs of our homes and businesses.  Prehistorically, we used branches and animal skins, and then at one point logs, and then thatch and tile and currently the most popular, asphalt shingles.  Metal roofing is a fairly new idea, and with it comes a lot of misinformation as to its durability, insulation properties, loudness and more.  So let’s debunk eight metal roofing myths right now.

MYTH #1: Metal roofs attract lightning

While metal conducts electricity, it doesn’t attract it.  Lightning usually strikes the tallest objects in an area such as power poles and tree tops.  Were a metal roof to be hit by lightning, the electricity would be dispersed throughout it without starting a fire as is possible with shingle roofs.

MYTH #2: Metal roofs are loud in the rain

When properly installed with sheathing below them, metal roofs will actually produce less noise in heavy rain than traditional roofs.

MYTH #3: Metal rusts

Not when it has been factory-coated with a zinc or aluminum sealant that is bonded to the metal.  Unprotected metal rusts, but metal roofing does not.

MYTH #4: Hail will damage a metal roof

A properly built metal roof will withstand extreme abuse from hail as well as from high winds and snow.  Unusually large hail (like the “softball-sized” hail we sometimes hear about) can cause some denting, but compared with most other types of roofing materials, a metal roof will weather the storm better.

MYTH #5: You can’t walk on a metal roof

Metal roofs are installed with underlying sheathing, usually on top of an existing roof.  Check with your installer first, but in most cases, you can safely walk on any metal roof without damaging it.

MYTH #6: Metal roofs create heat traps

This is a common myth that simply isn’t true.  Rather than absorbing heat, properly built metal roofs actually deflect the hot rays of the sun, keeping your home or office cooler in the summer.  It’s not uncommon for owners of metal roofs to realize a savings of up to 40 percent on cooling costs.

MYTH #7: There is no resale value with a metal roof

According to Remodeling Magazine, homes with standing-seam metal roofing recoup between 85 and 95 percent of the investment upon sale.  That comes out to gains 1 to 6 percent higher than with asphalt shingle roofs.

MYTH #8: Metal roofs look like roofs on barns and storage buildings

One look at the wide range of styles, colors, textures and designs of today’s well-made metal roofs, and this myth is instantly debunked.  Metal roofs are not just coverings, rather they’re true aesthetic additions that enhance the appearance of any home or building.

There are more metal roof myths, and Advanced Aluminum of Lakeland, Fla., is here to address all of them.  We build top-grade metal roofing for all residential and commercial needs, and we know the value of this amazing material.  Learn a lot more about metal roofing by calling (863) 648-5787, or visit us at 2941 Parkway St.