While metal roofs are an increasingly popular option for home owners these days, the truth is – you certainly need to do your homework before purchasing one. There’s a lot of information to sift through – and sometimes with so much out there; it can get hard to decipher what’s fact from fiction. 

Today, we’re going to delve into, well – the fiction, if you will. Here are three common myths you’ll encounter about metal roofs and why they’re wrong. Let’s jump right in!

MYTH: Metal roofs are hot and don’t insulate houses like asphalt shingles do

TRUTH: Metal roofs actually do the opposite. In fact – in the winter they’ll keep your house warmer and in the summer they’ll do a better job of keeping it cooler. Metal roofs insulate temperatures better than asphalt roofs, which means whether it’s hot or it’s cold out – you’ll save money on your energy bills. 

How this works i – during the daytime – metal roofs reflect a lot of the solar radiation that gets absorbed by an asphalt roof; resulting in a more consistent temperature. So you won’t get a really hot roof during the day and a super cold roof at night. It stays mostly towards the middle. That means consistent temperatures and a home that’s much easier to heat and cool. 

MYTH: Metal roofs attract lightning

TRUTH: Look at almost any peer reviewed literature on the subject and they’ll all tell you that this is a bunch of hooey. In fact, even if your home does manage to get hit by lightning; the metal in the rof disperses the electricity more evenly and safely throughout the structure. 

See, when lightning hits, the big concern is so much the electricity, but rather the fire that said electricity creates. The good news is, that metal roofs are combustible and they’re most definitely not flammable; so just by that virtue alone, a metal roof affords you a superior option when severe weather is a concern. 

MYTH: Metal roofs are cost-prohibitive compared to asphalt roofs

TRUTH: This one is a bit more complicated. Yes, metal roofs are more expensive up front. They have been for some time, but it’s another example of ‘you get what you pay for.’ While an asphalt roof can last for 20 years, a metal roof can last twice that time or even more. What that means is – if you use an asphalt roof; you’ll have to expect to pay for a new one 2-3 times over the course of your life. That’s opposed to just once with a metal roof. 

The other bit of  ‘emerging’ information regarding this is that with the global financial crisis, the push towards greener, more sustainable products and now even COVID-19, we’re seeing the cost of petroleum-based products go up. And asphalt shingles are petroleum-based. As such, the cost difference isn’t nearly as significant as it was a few years ago. 

Simply put – comparing apples to apples in this case, isn’t always easy. You need to look at all the costs associated: homeowner premiums, electrical costs and warranties. And when you do the math – it adds up in favor of a metal roof. 

Hopefully today’s blog will dispel some common myths around metal roofs and help your decision come into a little bit clearer focus. If you’re interested in metal roof clips and components for your home, give us a call today!