Myths About Metal Roofing: Busted!

When comparing metal roofing to asphalt shingles, there are a few important factors you want to take into consideration.

Metal roofing is much more than a novelty that you see on affordable cabin building shows in Alaska.

There are factors to consider with metal roofing. These are life expectancy, metal roofing costs, maintenance, and overall aesthetic

Read further to learn more about what metal roofing is. We're here to debunk common misconceptions! We'll also go through everything you need to know and consider before installing a metal roof.

1. Metal Roofs Are Just As Quiet As An Asphalt Roof

A common misconception is that metal roofs are louder than traditional asphalt roofing when it comes to rain or hail falling on them.

In reality, metal roofing is no louder than any other type of roofing. When metal roofs are installed, typically, it's over a solid substrate that dampens the sound.

Furthermore, the attic and insulation, if installed correctly, should provide a sound barrier.

Metal roofs are often perceived to be noisy. But homeowners rarely notice an increase in noise levels in their living spaces after installation.

2. Metal Roofs Do Not Attract Lighting

Another common misconception is that metal roofs are more susceptible to lightning strikes. This is far from true!

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) has conducted a study on lightning strikes and metal roofing. Their findings show that metal roofing does not increase the risk of a lightning strike.

In fact, metal roofing may actually be safer than other types of roofing materials, such as shingles or wood shakes, in the event of a lightning strike.

This is because metal is a good conductor of electricity. When lightning strikes a metal roof, the electricity flows through the roof and into the ground. This helps to disperse the energy of the lightning strike, which can help to prevent fires and other damage.

In addition, it is non-combustible. This means that it will not catch fire if it is struck by lightning.

This is in contrast to other types of roofing materials, such as shingles or wood shakes, which can easily catch fire if they are struck by lightning.

But why is this hard to wrap your brain around when in science class, you learned metals attract electricity?

As per Metal Construction Association, a metal roof is an electrical conductor as well as a noncombustible material.

In other words, the reason why metal roofs don't attract lightning is quite simple. Lightning seeks a path to the ground, and metal roofing does not provide that path for lightning. This is why structures such as trees and telephone poles tend to attract lightning.

Metal roofs are isolated structures. This means they have no direct path to the ground that is inherent in their design.

So, according to the laws of science, there is no reason for lightning to strike metal roofing any more than asphalt roofing.

3. Metal Roofing is Environmentally Friendly

In the U.S. alone, traditional roofing products contribute to an estimated 20 billion pounds of waste in American landfills a year.

On the contrary, metal roofing contributes zero waste to landfills.

Here are the facts about why metal roofing is environmentally friendly:

• Most metal roofing is made from up to 99% recycled aluminium. The majority is post-consumer consumption, such as aluminium from recycled cans.
• The low weight of aluminium and classic metal roofing minimizes transportation costs.
• The light weight also allows metal roof installation over existing roofs. No need to put time and energy into taking a roof apart.
• It is 100% recyclable if a metal roof replacement is needed.
• It can be integrated with most photovoltaic (PV) solar power systems.

You can find much more information and facts here, the list goes on.

4. Metal Roofing is More Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient

Not only is classic metal roofing environmentally friendly, but it is also more cost- and energy-efficient.

Metal Roofing Has a Longer Lifespan Than Asphalt Shingles

On average, asphalt shingles have a lifespan of about 30 years in the right circumstances with no extreme weather conditions.

While according to State Farm Insurance Statistics, metal roofs can last up to 40–70 years. This means homeowners wouldn't need to install more than one metal roof over the time period they live in their homes.

On the other hand, asphalt shingle roofs are expected to need replacement at least three to four times over a 50-year period.

The cost of installing a metal roof can be more expensive (sometimes even double). But overall, it can save money in the long haul.

Metal Roofing Reduces Cooling Costs

Its unique reflective properties help keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofs can reduce cooling costs by as much as 25 percent.

Such a good return on investment, right?

Furthermore, some are coated with a special reflective coating to minimize heat gain. This can keep occupants comfortable inside their homes without having to crank up the air conditioner.

5. Metal Roofing is More Durable Than Asphalt Shingles

As stated earlier in the article, you know that classic metal roofing has a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles. But why is that?

It is a popular choice for happy homeowners and businesses because it is virtually fireproof. With the recent increase in wildfires, metal roofing has become a more popular choice.

Additionally, it is impervious to rot and mildew. It has rust resistance. Unlike asphalt shingles, water is unable to penetrate metal.

Insects and termites also can't eat away metal roofing.

Conclusion

There are pros and cons to each type of roofing. Usually, the type of roof is contingent on environmental factors specific to the location of your home. Keep these factors in mind the next time you need a roofing replacement.

If you are in need of reliable roofing services in Calgary, look no further than Fortress Roofing! We specialize in delivering top-notch roofing solutions and exceptional customer service.

Visit our website to explore our range of services and schedule a consultation. Trust us to safeguard your home with our expertise and high-quality materials.

Contact us today for a free quote and take the first step toward a secure and beautiful roof. We're here to provide you with the roofing solutions you deserve.