It is truly fascinating how many people are clueless when it comes to the basic understanding of metal roofing. After reading these this article, you will have a better understanding and appreciation of metal roofing technology.
Myth 1: a Metal roof has a higher risk of getting struck by a lightning.
No, metal roofing does not increase the chances of your house getting struck by a lightning. In fact, if your house does get struck, a metal roof will help to dissipate the charge, and because metal is a non combustible material, your roof will not catch fire.
Myth 2: a Metal roof makes a lot of noise when it rains.
You are probably thinking about that old cheap metal roof over the barn that used to sound like a machine gun burst when it is raining... Modern metal roofing is usually installed over a plywood, solid sheathing, or over your existing roof. It will make no more noise than a regular asphalt shingle roof. Oftentimes a metal roof will be quieter than a non metal roof, and will shield the noise from rain and bad weather.
Myth 3: Metal roofing costs a lot of money.
It may seem like it does, but it really does not! You may be surprised, but a metal roof will actually costs less than the asphalt shingle roof if you stay in your house long enough. Not only will it increase the value of your house, but it will also help you save money on cooling costs. Metal roofing can result in up to 50% savings in energy costs during summer months. And finally, a metal roof may well be the last roof you will ever have to install on your house. Ever! Provided you get a quality installation from a qualified metal roofing contractor.
While the initial cost for a premium metal roof is higher than most other roofing materials; You will actually save money in the long run by paying for a metal roof. A new professionally installed metal roof will potentially last a lifetime. Whereas, materials such as asphalt shingles, may require re-roofing every 10 to 20 years. A new metal roof will also increase the resale value of your home. Thus your initial roofing cost gets partially offset by the capital gain in your house.
A Metal Roof can decrease your insurance premium. In some states, like Texas, a metal roof may even lower your homeowner's insurance by as much as 35%.
There is also a Government Tax credit available to homeowners who obtain a metal roof for their house.
Myth 4: a Metal Roof is susceptible to rust.
Modern metal roofing is built to last for decades. Steel metal roofing has a metal coating protection layer made with zinc or aluminum, which is bonded to the steel and then painted with a high quality paint designed to withstand the toughest abuse from bad weather, and provide the desirable color and looks that homeowners want.
Myth 5: a Metal Roof is susceptible to dents.
Modern metal roofs are built to withstand years of abuse from severe weather such as hail, extreme winds, and snow. Hail will not dent a metal roof, and extremely high winds are not a threat either, as many modern metal roofing systems are rated for 120mph winds. In fact, metal roofs perform extremely well in the hurricane. It is not unusual to see the metal roof with no damage, next to naked regular roofs that have lost all its shingles and plywood in hurricane.
Myth 6: You cannot walk on a metal roof without damaging it.
While you should definitely take all the necessary precautions before venturing out for a walk on your roof, metal roofs are completely walkable. I would recommend using running shoes such as Asics, because they will provide good traction for your feet when on the roof. Avoid walking on your roof when its raining as you could easily slip and fall. Rule of thumb is to stay of the roof whenever its surface is wet. Contact your roofing contractor for special techniques on how to walk on the metal roof they have installed.
