Separating Fact from Fiction: Examining Common Misconceptions About Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has become an increasingly popular option for homes in recent years. With its durability, longevity, and energy efficiency benefits, it’s easy to see why more homeowners are choosing metal over conventional roofing materials like asphalt shingles.

However, there are still quite a few myths and misconceptions about metal roofing floating around. As a home exterior contractor specializing in metal roof installation and repair, we often hear homeowners repeat some of these common metal roofing myths.

In this article, we’ll separate fact from fiction and get to the truth behind the top myths about metal roofing. Keep reading to learn the real facts so you can make the most informed decision for your roof replacement or new construction project.

Myth #1: Metal Roofs Are Noisy in the Rain

One of the biggest misconceptions we hear from homeowners is that metal roofs make a lot of noise when it rains. This myth likely originated from the early days of metal roofing when uncoated, lightweight metal panels were commonly used on agricultural and industrial buildings.

The truth is that modern metal roofing is designed and manufactured much differently now. Today’s metal roofing panels are coated, heavier gauge, and installed with insulation and decking that all help dampen noise.

In fact, in independent sound tests, metal roofs measured close to the same decibel levels as asphalt shingles and nowhere near the noise of an uncoated metal panel.

So while you may hear light pitter-patter during a rainstorm, the noise level is comparable to shingles. The bottom line is metal roofing installed on a home is not obtrusively noisy in the rain.

Myth #2: Metal Roofs Make Your House Hotter

Another common myth we often hear is that metal roofs make your home hotter in warm weather months. This belief likely comes from the fact that metal absorbs heat more quickly than other roofing materials.

However, metal roofing’s ability to reflect solar radiation is what actually helps keep homes cooler. The high solar reflectance and thermal emittance of metal roofing allows it to rapidly release absorbed heat back into the atmosphere.

On a sunny day, a black asphalt roof can reach temperatures over 150°F. In contrast, a bare metal roof will only reach temperatures in the range of 77-90°F. With coatings that further improve solar reflectance, metal roof temperature can be even lower.

This reflectivity means metal roofing excels at energy efficiency and keeping attics and interiors cooler versus other roofing types. So despite first appearances, a metal roof actually helps reduce a home’s cooling load.

Myth #3: Metal Roofs Are Not Durable

One myth we often need to debunk is that metal roofing is flimsy or not durable enough to withstand extreme weather. In reality, metal roofing is one of the toughest and most durable roofing materials you can get.

Metal roofing is rated to withstand:

• Hail up to 2.5″ in diameter
• Wind speeds up to 140 mph
• Fire with a Class A fire rating
• Hurricanes – See case studies of metal roofs surviving major storms

Unlike other roofing types, you don’t have to worry about a metal roof blowing off in high winds or becoming damaged from large hailstones. A professionally installed metal roof is built to last through the most extreme weather conditions.

Myth #4: Metal Roofs Won’t Work on My Roof Pitch

One of the advantages of metal roofing is that it can conform and be installed on nearly any roof pitch and style. However, we often get asked whether a certain pitch is too low or too steep to install metal roofing.

The truth is that metal roofing can work on virtually any pitch – from a nearly flat commercial roof to a steeply pitched residential gable roof.

Certain minimum pitches are recommended by manufacturers to optimize water runoff. But specialized panels and techniques allow metal roofs to be installed on low or steep pitches outside of common ranges.

Talk with your metal roofing contractor about your specific roof pitch and architectural needs to see the options available. Chances are, metal can work for your unique roof.

Myth #5: Metal Roofs Are Hard to Maintain

Another myth suggests that metal roofing will lead to maintenance headaches down the road. In reality, a quality metal roof requires very little long-term maintenance compared to other roofing materials.

The durability of metal roofing means you won’t have to worry about wear and tear or replacing shingles or tiles anytime soon. And since metal won’t rot, split, crack, or fade, you avoid those common maintenance issues as well.

Occasional roof inspection, clearing debris, and re-coating panels after many years are the primary maintenance needs. Overall, the longevity and resilience of metal roofing translates to minimal upkeep.

Myth #6: Metal Roofing Causes Condensation Issues

In northern regions like Wisconsin, condensation buildup is a valid concern with any roofing material when warm interior air meets cold roofing. However, some homeowners believe metal roofing is more prone to interior condensation issues.

In truth, condensation potential depends more on the insulation and vapor barrier strategies used rather than the roofing material itself. With proper installation, condensation can be minimized with both metal and other roofing types.

The solution lies in creating a complete roof assembly and attic environment – including insulation, ventilation, vapor retarders – optimized to manage moisture regardless of exterior roofing material. Talk with your contractor about best practices for limiting condensation.

The Truth About Metal Roofing

Hopefully this mythbusting guide gave you the real facts behind common metal roofing misconceptions. When the fiction is stripped away, the truth remains that metal roofing is a smart, durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance choice for most homes.

To get the truth about how metal roofing can benefit your specific home, give Rosenow Customs a call at (833) 766-7663. Our team would be happy to answer any other questions you have and provide a free estimate for upgrading your home with a beautiful new metal roof.

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