Metal roofs are one of the most sought-after roofing materials in the U.S. Their popularity has surged in recent years and they are now giving tough competition to the popular asphalt shingles.
However, apart from exceptional durability and aesthetics, metal roofs often spark curiosity and even concern from some homeowners.
If you’ve been questioning whether a metal roof is right for your home because of something you’ve heard, let’s clear the air. In this article, we’ll tackle the most common misconceptions related to metal roofs.
We will start with the most common one: Do metal roofs attract lightning?
Myth 1: Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning?
Let’s address this upfront because it’s the question we hear the most. The short answer? No, metal roofs do not attract lightning.
This metal roofing myth likely stems from the fact that metal is a good conductor of electricity. But here’s the thing: being a good conductor doesn’t mean it attracts electricity. Lightning doesn’t seek out metal roofs—it targets the tallest objects in an area, such as trees, poles, or towers, regardless of what they’re made of.
In fact, if lightning does strike your home, a metal roof can actually protect you better than other materials. Why? Because metal disperses the electrical charge safely throughout the structure, reducing the risk of a fire. Another added benefit is that metal roofs are Class A fire-resistant, which is the highest rating available.
Traditional roofing materials, like wood or shingles, either are not fire-rated or have a lower fire rating, which makes them more vulnerable under these circumstances.
So, if lightning is what’s stopping you from considering a metal roof, you can rest easy.
Myth 2: Metal Roofs Are Noisy in Rain or Hail

When we meet homeowners for consultation, one of the reasons why they hesitate before installing a new metal roof is because it is noisy. This is also not quite true.
Many people imagine a loud drumming sound every time it rains, but modern metal roofs are far quieter than you’d think. Gone are the days of bare metal sheets clanging noisily in a storm. Today’s metal roofs are installed with layers of underlayment, insulation, and proper fastening systems that absorb sound.
Think of it this way: the noise level of rain hitting a metal roof isn’t any different from that of rain on an asphalt shingle roof. The extra layers in the roofing system dampen sound vibrations, so you’re not likely to notice much difference indoors.
In fact, homeowners with metal roofs might be pleasantly surprised by how quiet their homes are during storms.
Myth 3: Metal Roofs Are Prone to Rust

This myth likely comes from images of old barns or industrial buildings with rusty, weathered metal roofs. But modern metal roofing materials are far from what you might picture. Out of all the metals used to make roofing panels, only traditional steel roofs are vulnerable to rusting. However, the good news is that these steel roofs are hardly used in metal roofing today.
Manufacturers now offer coated steel roofing products such as galvanized steel and galvalume steel. All other popular metals used, like aluminum, copper, and zinc, are also rust-resistant.
Here is more detail about each of these rust-resistant metal roofing materials:
Galvanized Steel
- Carbon steel coated with a protective layer of zinc through a hot-dip process.
- Offers good corrosion resistance for inland areas and is one of the most economical metal roofing options.
Galvalume Steel
- Steel coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy (55% aluminum, 45% zinc), providing better corrosion resistance than galvanized steel.
Aluminum
- Naturally corrosion-resistant metal that forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to air.
- Ideal for coastal environments and requires no additional protective coating.
Copper
- Premium roofing material that develops a distinctive green patina over time, providing natural protection.
Zinc
- Forms a protective patina like copper but in a blue-gray color, offering excellent corrosion resistance.
- Self-healing properties fix scratches and small dents over time.
Plus, all these metal roofs are designed to last for decades—often 50 years or more—with minimal maintenance. So, if you’re imagining your beautiful new roof turning into a rusted eyesore, you have nothing to worry about.
Also Read: Best Metal Roof Types For Residential Homes
Myth 4: Metal Roofs Are Too Expensive
Yes, metal roofs do have a higher upfront cost than traditional asphalt shingles, but focusing solely on the price tag misses the bigger picture. Metal roofs offer long-term value that makes them a cost-effective choice over time.
Here’s why:
- Durability: Metal roofs can last two to three times longer than shingle roofs.
- Low Maintenance: They require very little upkeep compared to other materials.
- Energy Efficiency: Their reflective properties help lower cooling costs, especially in warmer climates.
- Increased Home Value: Metal roofs can boost your home’s resale value and curb appeal.
While the initial investment might seem steep, the savings you’ll see in energy bills, repair costs, and roof replacements over the years make metal roofs worth it.
Myth 5: Metal Roofs Make Your Home Hotter
It’s easy to assume that a metal roof would turn your home into a giant oven in the summer. But here’s the reality: metal roofs actually keep your home cooler.
Metal roofs are designed with reflective coatings that bounce sunlight away from your home, reducing heat absorption. These coatings, often referred to as “cool roof” technology, can lower cooling costs by up to 25%.
On the other hand, traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles tend to absorb and trap heat, raising your home’s interior temperature. So, not only are metal roofs not making your home hotter—they’re actively working to keep it cooler.
Myth 6: Metal Roofs Are Unsafe During a Fire
Here’s a surprising fact: metal roofs are one of the safest options in a fire. Unlike wood shingles or other combustible materials, metal doesn’t ignite.
If a fire were to start, whether from an external source like a wildfire or an internal one, a metal roof could slow its spread and even prevent it from worsening. As mentioned before, many metal roofing systems are rated Class A for fire resistance, which is the highest rating possible.
This myth is a stark contrast to reality: a metal roof could actually give you extra peace of mind in fire-prone areas.
Why Choose a Metal Roof Despite the Myths?
When it comes to durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetics, metal roofs are hard to beat. They’re a smart investment for homeowners looking for a roof that stands the test of time—and they look great while doing it.
Sure, there are myths out there, but as we’ve seen, most of these metal roofing myths are not true. Whether you’re worried about lightning, noise, rust, or price, the reality is often the opposite of what you might expect.
If you’re considering a new roof and want something that combines modern style with unmatched functionality, a metal roof could be exactly what you need.
Also Read: Metal Roof Pros and Cons To Know Before Replacement
Considering A Metal Roof? We Can Help
If you want to install a new metal roof or repair your existing roof, our team at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing can help. We have decades of experience in metal roofing and have helped hundreds of homeowners in Oklahoma. Trust our certified experts for the best roofing job. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more.