The Truth About Metal Roofs
Written By: ProViaDate Published: 03/11/2025
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If you're considering a metal roof to replace your worn-out, faded asphalt shingles or for a new home build, congratulations - you're making a smart choice. A metal roofing system is worth the investment and has an expected product lifespan of 50+ years. Metal is tougher, more durable, safer, and longer-lasting than asphalt. Metal roof systems offer energy cost savings, withstand extreme weather, and boost resale value. Sounds incredible, right? Still, in some circles, metal roofs have several unsubstantiated myths surrounding them. Let's address the most prevalent questions about metal roofs.
Can You Walk on Metal Roofs?
Tin roofs that bend, buckle, or crumple are a thing of the past. Today's metal roofs are substantially stronger. You can walk on a ProVia metal roof if necessary and shouldn't be afraid to do so while cleaning the gutters, picking up storm debris, or fetching a Frisbee™. ProVia shake, slate, and barrel tile metal roofs are made with strong 26-gauge galvanized steel, and with the supporting roof deck, a metal roof can easily withstand a person walking on it without causing damage. So, you won't fall through our metal roofs, but to guarantee your physical safety, be sure to ask your contractor or the manufacturer where and how to walk on a metal roof, and never walk on it when it's wet or extremely dusty.
Are Metal Roofs Heavy?
Metal panel roofing systems are heavy-duty, not heavyweight. The average per-square-weight of an asphalt shingles roof is 240 to 270 pounds and a slat roof is 800 to 1500 pounds. By contrast, a metal roof system is much lighter, coming in at a per-square-weight of only 108 pounds. ProVia metal roofs are 67% lighter than asphalt shingles and are made with up to 30% more galvanized steel than the industry average. So, you get the added strength of steel without any added weight.
Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning?
While metal can be a conductor of lightning, it doesn't "attact" lightning. In fact, metal is one of the best materials to have if your home was struck by lightning. Metal works to disperse energy safely though the structure of your home rather than allowing it to penetrate or spontaneously ignite or shock. And metal is noncombustible, so if lightning does hit, a metal roof won't catch fire.
Are Metal Roofs Noisy When it Rains?
This myth originates from fact - the noise generated by a heavy downpour on a metal barn roof can be downright deafening. In a barn or amphitheater, the open air and lack of structural materials across the entire inside of the roof contributes to the racket. In residential structures, the roof is a complete system that includes attic space in your home, the roof deck, underlayment materials that prevent moisture, and interior insulation, all of which absorb sound - making the thunderous torrent sound more like a gentle shower. When installed properly, a ProVia metal roof system is engineered to be as quiet as any other roof material.
Are Metal Roofs Easily Dented by Hail?
Metal roofs are well-known for being much more durable than other roofing materials, especially asphalt shingles. In fact, in many areas across the country where extreme weather can occur, metal roofs are the better choice for residential homes - so much so that many insurance companies offer price breaks* for metal roof systems. ProVia metal roofs are enhanced with a GalvaTec™ resin-based finish that strengthens the surface of the panels and protects it from hail damage. Plus, it's certified with a Class 4 impact resistance rating.
*Always check with your insurance company for specifics about homeowner insurance premium reductions.
Do Metal Roofs Attract Heat?
Most ProVia metal roofing profiles include a Cool Roof compliant paint system that's designed to reflect UV rays that other roofing materials absorb. In addition to UV protection, a metal roof releases solar heat much more quickly than asphalt shingle roofs, which absorb heat with their petroleum and granular composition. ProVia metal roofs reduce the heat load of your house, providing up to 30% energy savings. Even our dark shades like Coalstone Slate and Bronzewood Shake, while not "cool roof" colors, won't contribute to raising the temperature in your home when properly installed.
Do Metal Roofs Affect Cell Phone Reception?
Metal roofs don't interfere with cell phone reception, allowing radio signals to pass through with little disruption. In this regard, metal roofs are no different than other common building materials like brick or concrete. So, no worries - you can surf the web, talk on your phone, and watch your favorite videos without disruption.
Do Metal Roofs Rust?
Back to that tin roof we mentioned earlier - rust occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and water, causing oxidation that deteriorates the metal. ProVia metal roof panels are treated with a premium architectural coating system that prevents moisture from reaching the metal. Multiple layers of primer, epoxy, zinc, and base, decorative and finish coats, plus a zinc galvanized coating on both the exterior and underside, ensure each panel is protected. In fact, ProVia metal roofs have 11 total layers of anti-corrosive coating to shield it from oxidation and prevent rust from forming.
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