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Have you ever heard that metal roofs are loud during rainstorms?
Does the thought of rain pounding on metal make you hesitant to choose a metal roof?
This long standing myth has deterred many homeowners from taking the plunge and getting a metal roof installed on their home. However, as metal roof installers, we’ve found that modern installation techniques mitigate the sound of rain on a metal roof. So much so that it's comparable to the sound rain makes on a classic asphalt shingle roof.
In this article, you'll discover how proper installation and insulation can significantly reduce the noise from a metal roof during rain. We'll also cover the rare circumstances when metal roofs might be noisier than expected.
Let’s explore how the installation process of a metal roof helps minimize excessive noise from rainfall.
How Installation Methods Prevent Metal Roofs from Being Noisy During a Rainstorm
When deciding to choose a metal roof, homeowners can be weary because well – they don’t want to be woken up on a rainy evening to loud pings from their roof. And we don’t blame you if that’s you! However, the standard way a metal roof is installed today makes this much less of a concern for the average homeowner.
The most critical factor influencing how noisy a metal roof can be is how it's installed. In modern construction, metal roofing is usually attached directly to a solid roof deck—typically made of plywood or similar material. The roof decking absorbs the vibration of the sound, rather than amplifying it.
Imagine knocking on a solid wall versus a hollow one: the sound on the solid wall is much quieter, right? The same principle applies here. The solid surface beneath the roof muffles the noise, making rain impact indistinguishable from a traditional asphalt shingle roof. If a metal roof is installed improperly or, on rare occasions, installed over open battens, it is possible that a metal roof can be noisier than asphalt shingles. But it should be easy to find out how your metal roof will be installed by asking a trusted roofer.
While proper installation helps mitigate the “pinging” sound of a metal roof, insulation also plays an important role.
The Role of Attic Insulation to Reduce the Noise of a Metal Roof
Did you know that attic insulation plays a more significant role in blocking noise than the roof material itself?
In many homes, it’s the insulation above your ceiling that reduces the amount of external sound you hear. A well-insulated attic will muffle the sound of rain, regardless of whether you have a metal roof or shingles. If you notice more noise, it could be due to poor insulation rather than the roofing material.
Ensuring your attic is properly insulated not only makes your home quieter during a rainstorm but also helps prevent a myriad of potential interior damage to your home. Proper insulation is key to avoid noise, mold, and condensation in your home whether you have a metal or shingle roof.
Should You Get a Metal Roof in an Area Prone to Rainstorms?
The greater Myrtle Beach area is prone to a lot of rain, especially during hurricane season. Which may make you feel hesitant about getting a metal roof. Given that our region frequently experiences heavy rain and strong winds, we actually recommend metal roofs to homeowners who want a durable, low-maintenance roof option.
Metal roofs are known to last much longer than a traditional asphalt shingle, making them an excellent choice for homeowners in the Myrtle Beach area. Whether it’s salty air, wind, or rain, metal roofs are sure to withstand the elements when installed properly. If you’re interested in and corrugated metal or standing seam metal roof, we’re happy to help you through the entire process so you can have peace of mind from start to finish.
