Busting 5 Major Metal Roofing Myths

MCS Influencer John Kenney breaks down five metal roofing myths and how you can communicate with your customers about them.

When we decided to put a new roof on our house three years ago, we chose a metal standing seam system. I will address the myths of metal roofing from a professional aspect and as an end-user of the product.

Myth 1 – Noise

Most people attribute this myth to their experience of hearing the rain on an open carport, commercial building without a deck substrate, or even the old tin roof on their grandparent's front porch. These types of structures indeed make excessive noise when the rain hits these types of building structures.

However, it's not the same when metal roofing is installed on a home. A new residential metal roof won't be any louder than any other type of roofing material. With a solid deck, underlayment and even optional insulation installed, these layers will diminish the sounds from even the most intense rainstorms.

Myth 2 – Metal roofs will rust

Today, metal roof materials are made specifically for roofing. They are designed and developed to withstand elements and prevent rusting. With advances in paint systems and other technologies, a metal roof will stay intact and resist oxidation and rust for decades. A quality product and installation are still essential in preventing damage to the panels and avoiding any needless pitting and rusting.

Myth 3 – Lightning strikes

Many believe a metal roof increases the probability of their house getting struck by lightning. Although metal does conduct electricity, electricity is not drawn to it. Your house has no greater chance of being struck by lightning with metal than any other roof system. And since a metal roof is non-combustible, it is safer than other roof types.

Myth 4 – Hail damage

The fact is that metal roofs are more durable than most other roof systems. Of course, it is possible if the hail is large enough in extreme cases to dent or damage metal roofing, but normal size hail will not. Using textured metal in your roof designs makes even minor denting less visible.

Myth 5 – Metal roofs are too expensive

If you only look at the upfront cost, a metal roof costs more initially than many other types of roofs, especially asphalt shingles. You have to consider the actual lifetime cost of either roof system. A metal roof is designed to last 40-60 years of service and requires little to no maintenance. If you consider the lifetime costs of both different systems, metal roofing will be comparably cheaper in most cases.

The best way to communicate to your clients is to lay all the facts out. Installing a new roof is a significant purchase for the homeowner, and being honest and upfront with your points will build trust early between you and your future client. People buy off of whom they trust the most.

John Kenney is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. See his full bio here.