What To Expect In A Lightning Storm With A Metal Roof?

Key Takeaways:

1. Contrary to popular belief, metal roofs are very good at protecting against lightning storms. This is because they are non-combustible and fireproof.
2. Metal roofs need the same amount of repair and maintenance as any other roofing material would require.
3. Some benefits of metal roofs include their longevity, energy efficiency, and insurance discounts.
4. Stone-coated metal roofing is the best of both worlds, giving homeowners the benefits of industrial metal roofing without sacrificing style.
5. To manage the risk of electrical discharge during a lightning storm on a metal roof, it’s important to ensure that all wiring is properly grounded and that surge protection devices are installed on major electrical elements in the home.

When your home has a metal roof, thunderstorms and lightning can be intimidating prospects. You may wonder what occurs on the roof during heavy storms or how durable those metal panels are when they are battered by hail and wind. Fortunately, you can rest easy knowing that metal roofs provide extraordinary protection from all types of severe weather–including lightning! In this blog post, iRoofers of America will skim over everything you need to know about the wonderful features of a metal roof that make it perfect for dealing with lightning storms. Read ahead to get answers now!

Lightning Storms & Metal Roofs: A Deadly Combo?

Though some believe metal roofs are magnets for lightning, research has shown this to be untrue. In fact, as metal roofing is non-combustible and fireproof, it is one of the best types of roofing for homes in areas where lightning strikes are common.

Non-Flammable Roofs

The best way to prevent fires from lightning strikes is by having a non-flammable roof. If your roofing materials can easily catch on fire, such as wood or asphalt shingles, are coated in petroleum, it’s easy for a lightning strike to cause ignition. Lightning produces extreme heat, often leading to roofs catching on fire or the fire jumping from the roof inside the house since it’s looking for the quickest path to reach the ground.

A lightning rod is placed on the top of a building during a thunderstorm. The rod, made of non-combustible metal, conducts electricity from the lightning bolt to the ground providing a safe path for the discharge.

Fire Resistance Rating Matters!

Metal roofs are conductive, which means they can quickly contain the voltage and risk of fire when lightning strikes. Live in an area where lightning is a common occurrence. You should look for a roof made of non-combustible materials with the highest Class A rating for fire resistance.

Also read: Roofing Inspection – How & When to Schedule One?

Ridiculous Myths Surrounding Metal Roofs

Yep, there are a lot of misconceptions and myths surrounding metal roofs. Let’s bust them once & for all:

Myth 1: Lightning Attracts to Metal Roofs

This is false. A roof made of combustible material doesn’t attract lightning any more than one made of metal. In many cases, a metal roof can reduce the risk of your home being struck by lightning because it can disperse the energy from a bolt over a larger area better than other materials. The key here is ensuring your roof has proper grounding and that the wiring isn’t damaged or improperly installed.

Myth 2: Metal Roofs Can Cause Electrical Damage

Again, not true! While it is true that metal roofs are conductive, they are also designed to contain electrical discharges, so there’s no danger of electrical damage due to a lightning strike. What is important, however, is that the roof’s wiring is properly grounded to avoid potential problems. Additionally, it’s also helpful if your roof has plenty of ventilation and natural barriers like trees or other vegetation that can help protect against lightning strikes.

Myth 3: Metal Roofs Will Need More Repairs After a Lightning Strike

Metal roofs need the same amount of repair and maintenance as any other roofing material would require. Because they are more durable than other roofing materials, they may even need fewer repairs due to everyday wear and tear.

Industrial Strength Durability of Residential Metal Roofing

Every year, metal roofing becomes more popular in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. Metal roofs are durable, long-lasting, and have a high ROI. Some other great benefits of metal roofs include the following:

• One of the biggest plus points of a metal roof is its longevity. Metal roofs last two to three times longer than asphalt shingles, making them a wise investment for your home.
• Metal roofs are not only one of the most energy-efficient materials on the market, but they can also reduce cooling costs by up to 25%.
• Metal roofs also offer two major benefits regarding insurance and return on investment. Homeowner’s insurance discounts of up to 35% are available, while the value of your home could increase by 6%.

Although metal roofing is very durable, some types, such as standing seam metal roofs, may not be suitable for certain residential properties because they lack the required aesthetics and design versatility. Stone-coated metal roofing is the best of both worlds, giving homeowners the benefits of industrial metal roofing without sacrificing style.

Metal Roof Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners

Metal roofs can be particularly vulnerable to electrical discharge when a lightning storm is in full rage. This is why managing this risk and ensuring that your roof remains safe during a storm is important.

Taking Care of Electrical Discharge

The first step is assessing the risks of electrical discharge on metal roofing panels and ensuring they are properly grounded. If the metal roof has exposed wiring or connections, these should be properly insulated against potential sparks. Additionally, it’s also important to ensure that all metal components are regularly inspected for any signs of corrosion or damage that could compromise their integrity.

Surge Protection

Another way to protect your home from lightning-related damage is installing surge protection devices on circuit breakers and other major electrical elements. If lightning strikes the home, this will help to redirect the charge away from any vulnerable areas and help to avoid any damage or harm being caused to property or people within it.

iRoofers Of America – Providing Residential & Commercial Roofing Services in Saginaw

iRoofers of America in Saginaw is your one-stop shop for construction and storm restoration. Services we offer include residential & commercial roofing and solar panel installation.

We have ten years of experience in this industry and know that no two projects are identical. We develop a plan of action for each client that is specific to their needs, considering their budget, timeline, and aesthetics. Plus, we understand that sometimes repairs can’t wait because they’re urgent. That’s why we offer financing options to our clients, so they don’t have to delay getting the repairs done.

Contact iRoofers of America for a free inspection and consultation on your solar panel installation. We’re the best in town for seamless gutter systems & roofing solutions.