Here at NEPA Roofing Pros, we know that a lot of people have a lot of questions and misconceptions when it comes to metal roofing. Because it can be especially hard at times to separate fact from hearsay, we’ve compiled a list of the most common questions we hear about metal roofing, along with comprehensive, honest answers to help you decide whether a metal roof could be the right answer for you.
Do metal roofs attract lightning?
This is a very common question people have when considering metal roofing for their homes. But you needn’t worry, as a metal roof is neither more nor less likely to be struck by lightning than a traditional roof. However, if your home were struck by lightning, you’d be better off having a metal roof, as the energy from the bolt is more evenly dispersed across the roof compared to traditional materials, reducing the risk of fire or serious damage.
Are metal roofs more expensive than traditional ones?
The answer to this question is yes and no. Generally speaking, the upfront cost for installing a metal roof will be greater than the cost of a traditional shingle roof. However, consider that a shingle roof has a life cycle of roughly 10 – 20 years, whereas a metal roof can outlast this 3 to 4 times over. Additionally, metal roofs have been shown to add sometimes up to half their cost onto your house’s value, and they are much more energy efficient, potentially saving you money on your energy bills every year. It is readily apparent that, over time, metal roofs are more cost effective than shingle ones.
Are metal roofs too heavy to go on regular houses?
When people hear that something is made of metal, they automatically think that it will be very heavy. At least in the case of metal roofing, this is wrong. On average, metal roofs tend to weigh only half as much as traditional asphalt shingle roofing. So if you are thinking of investing in a metal roof, you don’t have to spend time worrying over whether your house can take the weight.
Are metal roofs too noisy?
Many people worry that putting a metal roof on their home will increase the noise level of falling rain to an intolerable degree. This is, in reality, just another unfounded concern. It is common practice to install metal roofing over an existing roof with insulation, with solid sheathing attached to the underlayment. This means that noise from the elements is actually further reduced with a metal roof, compared to more traditional ones.
Will a metal roof fit in with the surrounding neighborhood?
This question likely stems from the fact that, for a long time, metal roofing was mainly used for agricultural and industrial buildings. Times have changed now though, and metal roofing comes in a vast array of styles and colors, so no matter what style you are looking for, you are bound to find a metal roofing solution that fits perfectly.