Are Metal Roofs Noisy Compared to Other Types of Roofing? The Verdict is Clear, Say the Experts

Time to put this myth in the “busted” category: Leading experts say metal roofs that have been installed properly are just as quiet as any other type of roofing material.

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Noisy metal roofs is a common myth among homeowners. Experts like Matt Risinger of Build Productions say the truth is metal is just as quiet as any other type of roof.

Rooftop noise can be a major concern for homeowners who live in regions that get a lot of rain, thunder and hailstorms. Yet the fact is that a well-constructed metal roof isn’t any louder when compared to an asphalt and other types of roofs.

Here’s why: For roofs, sound transmission depends not only on the roofing material, but the roof decking, insulation and installation techniques. Quality metal roofing installed over a solid substrate such as plywood or even an old asphalt roof, with proper insulation and fasteners, will greatly reduce sound. Today’s modern metal roofs also are often manufactured with formed or texturize patterns which can break up the impact of drops hitting the roof, helping reduce sound.

A noisy metal roof can actually be a red flag the roof wasn’t installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, or that the insulation is insufficient. The issue could be the roof has too-few fasteners, fasteners that are loose or incorrectly placed. Roof underlayment also can make a big difference. Foam insulating panels or mats installed between the sheathing and roofing material not only can reduce sound but provide benefits such as increased efficiency and protection.

Roof shape is also a factor, no matter what material is used. A roof with a higher profile and more attic space tends to be quieter than a flat roof when it by raindrops or hail.

But what about those homeowners who actually want the soothing pitter patter sound on their roof when it rains? Experts say they are better off adding skylights if they want to enhance the sound effect (which is also simple to do when installing a metal roof).

Metal roofs offer other benefits for homeowners who live in rainy or hail prone regions. Thanks to tight seam construction, protective coatings and the natural water-shedding ability of metal, properly installed metal roofs help prevent leaks and problems that can allow moisture to seep into a home’s interior. And for the vast majority of homeowners, that’s truly music to the ears.