9 Myths and Misconceptions That Surround Metal Roofs

When it comes to the topic of residential roofing systems, homeowners such as yourself have a wide range of options when it comes to materials. After all, you can choose between materials such as treated wood, asphalt shingle, concrete and even slate if you want your roof to last for a long time. However, while these are all quality roofing materials that can no doubt suit your home’s needs, there is another material that you’re free to consider: metal.

Once known for being used in industrial buildings or barns, metal roofs have steadily gained popularity as a residential roof in recent decades due to its affordability and durability. But despite its popularity, some homeowners are still reluctant to install it in their homes due to the few myths and misconceptions that surround the material. But what exactly are these myths and misconceptions?

In this article, Deschutes Roofing lists nine different myths and misconceptions that often surround metal roofing systems.

1. Style and Color Options for Metal Roofs are Limited – A common misconception that surrounds metal roofs is that its style and color options are limited, which in turn can result in a bland roofing system that can bring your home’s value and curb appeal down. However, this is nothing more than a misconception as metal roofs offer a wide range of design and color options. In fact, it can even mimic the look of shake, slate, and clay tile, allowing metal roofs to further improve the overall look of your home.

2. Metal Roofs Don’t Perform Well in Extreme Conditions – As hard as it is to believe, metal roofs not faring well in extreme conditions is nothing more than a myth. According to roofing experts, metal roofs are actually the most preferred and durable choice for areas that see extreme weather conditions. This is because metal roofs are said to be able to withstand hurricane-force, 140mph winds and even extreme storms. Apart from that, they’re also able to hold up heavy loads of snow and ice without needing too much maintenance, making them one of the best materials to consider for residential and commercial roofing in areas that see extreme weather.

3. Metal Roofing Systems are Loud When It Rains – It’s understandable why some homeowners think this. After all, when certain items hit a metal object, it does create a loud sound. However, to say that metal roofs are loud when it rains is nothing more than a pure myth. This is because if a metal roof is properly installed and combined with the right sheathing and insulation, it will reduce the noise transmission of the roof, preventing it from becoming noisy when it rains as a result.

4. They Can Attract Lightning – Another common myth that you might hear about metal roofing systems is that it can attract lightning to your home and cause a fire. If this is what’s keeping you from installing a metal roof in your home, you don’t have to worry as while metal does indeed conduct electricity, it doesn’t necessarily attract lightning to your home. According to experts, lightning often strikes the tallest object of the area like power poles or trees and even if lightning does hit your metal roof, the electricity will safely disperse through it without starting a fire.

5. Hail Can Damage Metal Roofing Systems – Despite the fact that most metal roofs nowadays are built to be as durable as possible, it can’t be denied that this myth is somewhat true. A well-built and properly installed metal roof can withstand the abuse of hail and strong winds and storms but it will only stay the same for normal-sized hailstones. If a softball-sized hailstone were to hit your metal roof, on the other hand, you can expect it to sustain a few dents here and there. However, while your metal roof can sustain dents during a hail storm, the advantage it has is that it can withstand such a weather event far better than other roofing materials could.

6. Metal Roofs Don’t Have Good Resale Value – The notion that metal roofing systems do not have a good resale value is nothing but a misconception. According to expert roofers, homes with metal roofs can actually recoup 85% to 95% of their investment if they ever decide to sell their home in the future. This means that with a metal roof, you can earn a sizable profit from the sale of your home if you ever decide to move out.

7. It Can Rust – It’s true that unprotected metal roofing systems can indeed rust in the long run. Thankfully, however, most metal roofs nowadays are often coated with zinc or aluminum sealant during the manufacturing process, preventing it from rust in the process. And luckily for homeowners such as yourself, even if your metal roof doesn’t have protective sealants in them, you can always ask your residential roofing contractor to apply it on the roof for you.

8. They Look Better on Barns or Industrial Buildings – As stated before, metal roofs were only used in barns and industrial buildings before it became popular as a residential roofing material. As such, there’s a misconception going around that metal roofs only look good on industrial or agricultural properties. However, thanks to the wide variety of metal roof design and color options that are available nowadays, this myth can be instantly debunked and it’s been proven time and time again that metal roofs do look good in most homes.

9. They Create Heat Traps – Again, it’s understandable if some homeowners think that metal roofs aren’t energy-efficient and can create heat traps that make your home uncomfortable instead. After all, metal does become hot when left in the sun. But once again, this is also nothing but a myth. In fact, metal roofs nowadays are built to deflect the sun’s rays and heat instead of absorbing it, allowing your home to remain cooler on hot days without having to rely too much on your cooling system.

Planning to install a metal roof on your property? Simply turn to Deschutes Roofing. When it comes to residential and commercial roofing projects, we are the number one service providers to approach and we won’t let you down! With years of experience on our belts, you can rely on us to install your new roofing system in just a day while providing you with quality experience and good customer services at the same time. Give us a call at (503) 967-9590 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate today!