Busting Common Metal Roofing Myths

Architectural Digest, the design and lifestyle publication, sees metal roofing as one of six eco-friendly roof design materials. If you are considering the material for your residential roof and are committed to recycling, one of the many benefits of using metal roofing is that it is 100% recyclable. That is, once its multi-decade guarantee expires or you feel it’s time to replace the roof.

Popular Myths About Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is also used on many commercial buildings, and if you are wondering whether it attracts lightning, the answer is no. But what other popular myths are there about metal roofs? 

The Color Options are Limited

When you think about metal roofing, you probably think of silver-gray or even rusty colors. But how does Forest Green, Canyon Red or Surf White sound? No, they are not places to visit, but three of more than twenty color options you can choose. Choosing a color for your commercial or residential metal roof is definitely not limited. Use this online color visualizer and see what the different colors will look like on a photo of your home.   

It's Not Energy Efficient

Energy efficient, cool roof coating technologies are available for use on modern metal roofs, meeting energy efficiency compliance standards of organizations such as the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC). Metal roofing releases the sun's absorbed heat faster by reflecting the rays away from the surface. The panels absorb less heat and return to a standard temperature more quickly. The house becomes cooler because there is less heat below the roof, decreasing energy consumption and lowering bills. Metal roofs are a good platform when you want to install solar panels, increasing your home's energy efficiency even more. 

They Won't Withstand Extreme Weather

Metal roofing is fire resistant, and even if it were struck by lightning, cannot ignite or burn. It is also wind resistant and capable of withstanding winds up to 140 miles per hour (mph). When you choose a roof design with no seams and concealed fasteners, the roof not only has a crisp, clean appearance but also allows snow to slide right off. 

They Are Noisy

Is a metal roof loud when it rains? A common question when people start looking at new roofing material, as it has often been their experience when standing in a metal roof barn. However, the sound of a metal roof will be no different than any other roofing material when insulation, sheathing, or a solid roof deck is present. 

They Dent Easily

Metal roofing will not dent easily in a standard hailstorm as most are hail-impact tested and have a UL2281 Class 4 rating. But, as with any roofing material, it can be damaged in a very severe storm. If you live in an area prone to hailstorms, but want a metal roof, consider using roofing with a rib roller or striation in the flat part of the panel, as it could help hide denting. 

They Are Heavy

When you think about the weight of metal roofing and wonder if it’s heavy, you might be thinking about steel instead of the metal roofing materials used today. Materials such as Galvalume, zinc, aluminum, and copper are actually some of the lightest roofing materials on the market per square foot. 

They Rust

People often wonder do metal roofs rust, as rusting is an inherent characteristic of most metals. Modern metal roofing panels are coated, engineered, and tested to prevent rust formation for decades. For example, Galvalume’s coating combines the cost-effectiveness of steel with the rust resistance of aluminum. 

Bob Harvey Roofing has been in business for over thirty years and provides exceptional service throughout Northern Utah and surrounding areas. Do you have a commercial building with a flat roof? We can install TPO membrane for you. When your commercial or residential property has a sloped roof and you want to change to metal roofing, contact Bob Harvey Roofing today.