Published: 2/21/2022

Myth #1: Metal Roofs Aren’t Durable

The smooth finish and relatively thin profile of metal roofing is visually deceiving. It causes many to think that metal roofs are more delicate than their shingle-based counterparts, unable to stand up to the stresses of inclement weather. This is a big cause for concern among homeowners in stormy Florida, since we have to consider how well our roofs can stand up to hail, rain, and hurricanes.

Luckily, when it comes to this myth, the opposite is the truth. Metal roofing is incredibly strong, capable of resisting forceful winds and pounding ice. Choosing a corrugated version can further enhance its strength, and hide any imperfections that may result from the impact of especially large hailstones. Contrary to another popular belief, almost all of today’s metal roofing is rust-proof as well, meaning it can easily endure in Florida’s humid conditions.

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Myth #2: Metal Roofing Attracts Lightning

Metal conducts electricity. Therefore, it seems like a no-brainer that having a metal roof would put your home at a much greater risk of being struck by lightning – right?

Surprisingly, this is actually wrong. Not only is a metal roof not any more likely to be struck by lightning, it can also provide better protection in the event that it is hit. The conductivity of metal is actually a saving grace in this respect, since it will distribute the electricity evenly across the roof. On traditional rooftops, all that electricity would stay focused on a central point, significantly increasing the chance of causing damage. Furthermore, the fact that metal roofing is non-combustible offers a safeguard against possible fire ignition that commonly results from lightning strikes.

So if you’re particularly worried about lightning hitting during one of Florida’s notorious storms, a metal rooftop may be the best choice you could possibly make.

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Myth #3: Metal Roofing Increases Cooling Costs

Another elemental concern many have is that metal’s tendency to heat up can cause your home to become a magnet for the sun’s rays. This is believed to make your home prone to getting too warm during hot Florida days, putting far more demand on your air conditioning system. Shingles start to look like the more energy-efficient option when working under this assumption.

Again, with this myth, the opposite is true. Shingles unexpectedly tend to be greater absorbers of heat, while metal reflects sun beams away from your home. This property, known as “high emissivity”, is actually what makes metal feel hot when it has been exposed to heat; instead of sucking up all that warmth and storing it at its core, metal radiates it upward and outward. Deflecting the heat keeps your attic cooler than it would be with shingles, reducing your overall cooling needs. This is why it’s so common to see metal rooftops on today’s most energy efficient homes.

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Myth #4: Metal Roofing is Too Heavy for Standard Roof Structures

Sprawling metal sheets may seem like a big load to bear. A lot of homeowners worry that they’re too weighty to be properly supported by the beam structure of the attic below.

However, metal roofing turns out to be one of the most lightweight options on the market. Whereas shingles can weigh several hundred pounds per square foot, the lightest metal types (such as aluminum) can weigh as little as 50. The saved weight load becomes even more dramatic when compared to shingle installations that are layered over old ones.

On average, metal roofing is half as heavy as standard roofing, with even more disparity between it and high-end shingles or tiles. So any concerns over structural weakness should make metal the preferred choice, rather than the worst.

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Myth #5: Metal Roofing Looks Too “Industrial” for Residential Use

Thanks to its strength and cost efficiency, metal roofing is a popular choice for many commercial applications. This has built the association with metal roofing and more spartan, industrial-style builds. As a result, many homeowners assume that installing a metal roof will look out of place on all but the most modern houses.

This may have been the case years ago, but today, there are a wealth of fashionable options friendly for residential settings. It’s possible to get metal roofing in a wide variety of colors and textures, with some sheets even being formed to look like classic tiles and shingles. In the 2020s, there’s just no limit on what kind of aesthetic can be achieved with a metal rooftop.

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Find Expert Metal Roofing Contractors in Sarasota

If you’re ready to learn more about what type of roofing may be best for your home, our experts can walk you through the pros and cons of each option. Our crew is skilled at installing metal, tile, shingle, and even single-ply roofing on all building types, including residential housing.

We provide free inspections and estimates, giving you a chance to obtain an informed recommendation and quote without any risk. Contact us today to set up your convenient, contactless appointment.