A metal roofing system is arguably one of the most reliable and durable residential or commercial roofing options available today. Metal roofing is attractive and complements the aesthetics and architecture of your home or business. Metal roofing systems also offer several other benefits such as improving the energy efficiency of your structure and being fire and lightning resistant.
Even though metal roofing has grown in popularity over the years, many people are still not aware of the benefits and there are some myths that may prevent people from considering metal roofing for their properties.
Below we highlight 5 of these myths:
Myth #1: Metal Roof Is Expensive
One of the most common myths about metal roofing is that it is more expensive than other roofing types. When comparing the initial cost of installing asphalt shingles versus a metal roof, it is true that asphalt shingles are less expensive. But, once you incorporate durability and longevity into the equation, the lifetime value of a metal roof is significantly better than other materials. A metal roof has a considerably longer life expectancy than asphalt shingles which only last between 20-25 years in most cases. When incorporating the cost of potential repairs and future replacements, the investment in your metal roof today, will most definitely pay off in the long run as you will spend less money over time.
Myth #2: Metal Roofing Is Noisy
The appearance of the metal roofing makes some people believe that it will be noisy or echo when it is raining. This is simply not the case when proper installation techniques are followed. By pre-installing solid sheathing, a metal roofing system absorbs the impacts and noise caused by rain and will be as quiet if not more so than other roofing materials.
Myth #3: Metal Roofing Increases Lightning Incidences
This may have been brought about by the fact that metal is a good conductor of electricity. However, it does not attract electricity. Lightning is a natural occurrence that cannot be induced by metal roofing or any factor. As a result, metal roofing is not a causative factor of lightning. If by chance your building is hit by lightning, metal roofing is equipped to resist any negative implications of the strike.
Myth #4: Metal Roofing Is Too Heavy
That fact that metal roofing is made from metal, does not make it excessively heavy and burdensome on your building. A metal roof is much lighter than asphalt shingles, the average weight of a metal roof is 1.2 pounds per square foot, while asphalt shingles weigh between 2-4 pounds per square foot. As a result, a metal roof can be installed on an existing roof without affecting the structural integrity of the building.
Myth #5: Metal Roof Cannot Be Walked On
Many people think that a metal roof is not as solid as other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles. And that it is not safe to walk on. Again, this is just another myth, it is safe to walk on a metal roof. We suggest that you wear shoes with rubber soles and step over the wave of the roof’s profile to avoid damaging the roof or tripping. When it comes to walking on a metal roof, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A metal roofing system will keep you, your family, and your home safely covered for a very long time. The benefits of metal roofing are not yet known by all homeowners, but as the popularity of metal roofing continues to grow, myths like the ones mentioned above will continue to disappear.
