19 Common Questions About Metal Roofing

Although different geographic areas exhibit different trends, shingles are the most popular type of roof covering in the U.S. In fact, according to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, a whopping 80% of homes are covered in shingles.

And it’s easy to see why shingles are so popular; they’re not only affordable and durable but also available in a kaleidoscope of colors that’ll suit virtually any home and aesthetic taste.

But shingles are not the only choice, and a growing number of Michigan homeowners are opting for metal roofs instead. But because most people are more familiar with shingles than metal roofs, questions abound. People wonder whether they’re durable, how they hold up to snow, and if they’re available in different colors. People also wonder how they compare to shingles in terms of price.

We’ll try to help you decide if a metal roof is right for you below by answering these questions and others. 

19 Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roofs

If you’re just beginning to explore the notion of metal roofs, you undoubtedly have a lot of questions. After all, there aren’t that many metal roofs around yet (but we suspect this will change significantly in the future). But even if you’ve been looking into metal roofing for a while, we’re willing to bet that you still have a few lingering questions.

Don’t worry, we’ll answer 19 of the most common questions homeowners have below!

1. What are the main benefits of metal roofs?

Metal roofs provide an array of benefits, which have helped fuel their surging popularity. For starters, metal roofs are supremely durable and capable of lasting 40 to 80 years in some cases. They also require less maintenance than asphalt shingles, keep your home cooler by reflecting the sun’s rays, and shed snow and ice well. 

Additionally, metal roofs often increase a home’s value — sometimes significantly so.

2. What is the biggest problem with metal roofs?

The primary drawback to metal roofs is their cost; metal roofs can cost quite a bit more than shingle roofs (and this includes both the material costs and the installation costs). Their durability and potential for increasing property values certainly help offset the higher upfront cost, but the fact remains, you’ll pay much more for a metal roof than a shingle roof.

Some people also complain that (some) metal roofs are loud when it rains.

3. Is it cheaper to do a metal roof or shingles?

Shingles are usually much more affordable than metal roofing panels. Whereas the materials needed for a shingle roof are generally in the $1 to $3 per square foot ballpark, metal roofing materials often start at the higher end of this range. 

In fact, some metal roof materials may cost as much as $7 per square foot or more. It’s also important to note that metal roof installation is more difficult, which increases the labor costs associated with it as well.

4. Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?

No, metal roofs do not leak more than shingles when properly installed. However, improperly installed metal roofs are more likely to leak than shingle roofs, illustrating the importance of working with a roofing company that has extensive metal roof installation experience.

5. What happens if lightning strikes a metal roof?

Generally speaking, nothing dangerous happens when lightning strikes a house with a metal roof, as long as the home is properly grounded. The electricity from the strike will spread out through the metal, follow the path of least resistance, and follow the grounding wiring down into the earth.

In fact, because metal roofs won’t catch fire the way shingle roofs may when struck by lightning, you could argue that they’re safer.     

6. Can I put a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles?

It is often possible to install a metal roof over an existing roof, but it is not recommended. Doing so may trap moisture under the metal and present ventilation difficulties. Additionally, this type of installation will void the warranties provided by many metal roof manufacturers.

7. How long will a metal roof last?

Typically, a metal roof lasts between 40 and 80 years. However, the exact type of metal roofing used, the local environmental conditions, and the quality of the installation will all influence the lifespan of any specific metal roof.

8. Does residential metal roofing lower insurance?

Because they are typically very durable, fire-resistant, and last longer than traditional shingles, metal roofs can help reduce your homeowner’s insurance premiums. But every home insurer is different, so be sure to review your policy to be sure.

9. What problems do metal roofs have?

While metal roofs do present a variety of benefits, they are also susceptible to a few common problems, including the potential for leaks and scratches. Corrosion can also be a problem, especially when different metals are used to construct the roof or the home is located in close proximity to the ocean.  

Fortunately, these problems can often be mitigated by working with a professional roofing company, who understands the proper method for installing metal roofs.

10. Do metal roofs attract lightning?

No. Metal may be a good conductor, but it does not “attract” lightning. On the contrary, lightning typically strikes the highest point in an area. If your roof is higher than most other nearby objects, it may be susceptible to lightning strikes, but that has nothing to do with what material it is made from.

In fact, because metal roofs allow the electricity to disperse quickly across the roof surface, and they’re not combustible, metal roofs are typically considered safer than asphalt shingle roofs.

11. What goes on before a new metal roof?

Metal roofs are typically installed over a layer of material called underlayment. Typically, the underlayment is made from 15- or 30-pound felt paper, but some homeowners prefer having self-adhering ice or water shields installed instead. Additionally, insulating materials are sometimes installed between the underlayment and metal panels to help with energy efficiency or to dampen the sound of rain striking the roof.

12. Why don’t more people have metal roofs?

The primary reason that more people don’t have metal roofs is likely the higher initial cost associated with the installation. However, some other reasons include aesthetic considerations or homeowner’s association restrictions, as well as the amount of noise rain can cause when it strikes a metal roof.  

13. Are metal roofs noisy when it rains?

Metal roofs certainly can be noisy when it rains, but it depends on the type of metal roof installed and whether or not insulating materials are present between the roof and living space. If the metal is attached directly to the roof frame (as was a common practice in the past), rain will create quite a bit of noise. However, you probably won’t notice a huge difference in volume if you have a modern metal roof installed on top of high-quality underlayment. Additional insulation layers (including the insulation in your attic) will further reduce the noise.

Talk to your roofing professional about your concerns about rain volume. Most high-quality metal roof installers can recommend strategies for keeping the volume to a minimum.  

14. Are metal roofs vulnerable to hail damage?

Broadly speaking, yes — metal roofs are quite hail resistant. That doesn’t mean they won’t be damaged if softball-sized hailstones start plummeting down on your roof, but they’ll typically stand up well to normal hail. In fact, because they don’t split or crack like shingles when struck by hail, metal roofs are considered the better choice for hail-prone regions.

15. Are metal roofs high maintenance?

Metal roofs are generally considered a low-maintenance option compared to other roofing materials. In fact, this is a significant part of their appeal. Regular inspections are necessary, and you should clean off any debris that may collect water regularly, but no other routine maintenance is required.

16. Will a metal or galvanized steel roof rust?

Some metal roofs can rust, but others are relatively unlikely to.

Plain steel roofs, for example, will usually rust over time, as they’re exposed to moisture and oxygen. On the other hand, roofs that have been galvanized with zinc will not rust as long as the zinc layer remains intact. However, this zinc layer will wear away over the course of decades. Another kind of steel sometimes used in roofing, called galvalume steel, is treated with zinc and aluminum to provide longer-lasting protection.

Other materials, such as copper and aluminum, are inherently rust-resistant, but they’re more expensive than steel roofs and don’t always provide the kind of appearance that residential homeowners want.

17. Can metal roofing be painted?

Metal roofs can be painted to change their appearance or provide additional protection from the elements. Painting the roof a light color may even help to reflect more sunlight, thereby reducing your energy bills in the summer.

It is, however, very important to prepare a metal roof properly before painting it. For starters, you’ll want to wait at least six months following installation to allow the metal to “weather.” Then, when you’re ready to start painting, you’ll want to clean the roof thoroughly, remove any rust that is present, and apply a primer before adding the paint you’d like.

18. Are metal roofs energy efficient?

Metal is one of the most energy-efficient roofing materials around. However, the extent of the savings will vary based on a variety of factors, such as the local climate, amount of insulation used, and the metal roof color.

It is important to note that metal roofs tend to provide more energy bill savings for homeowners living in warm climates, as the material is remarkably good at reflecting the sun’s energy. Nevertheless, when installed in conjunction with high-quality underlayment and insulation material, metal roofs can also be energy efficient in cool climates.

19. What is a standing seam metal roof?

The term “standing seam metal roof” refers to a type of metal roof that features vertical “legs,” which are placed over the seams where two metal panels meet. They help cover the screws and other hardware, thereby allowing homeowners to avoid having exposed fasteners.

Let Schoenherr Roofing Install Your Metal Roofing System

Although they may not be ideal for all situations, metal roofs work very well for many homes in the Michigan area. Whether you’re ready to take the metal roof plunge or you still have questions, reach out to the professionals at Schoenherr Roofing. One of our metal roofing experts will be happy to answer any questions you may have, set up a home visit, and provide you with a free estimate.