If you’re planning on either purchasing a home with a metal roof or replacing your existing roof with a metal one, you’ve probably come across some naysayers about its expense and vulnerability to lightning strikes. As most Floridians know, lightning strikes injure and kill more residents of this state than any other state in the country. Additionally, some homes and many commercial buildings are damaged by lightning each year. But, one of the most heavily circulated misconceptions about metal roofs is the idea that steel roofs make your home more susceptible to lightning strikes, damage and fire breakout.
At Sunrise Roofing Company, Jacksonville Beach and our surrounding communities most trusted roofer, we can testify to the fact that not only is this belief wrong, but also that the truth is actually quite the opposite.
QUESTION? WILL HAVING A METAL ROOF MAKE IT MORE LIKELY FOR MY HOME TO BE STRUCK BY LIGHTNING?
A metal roof in no way increases your home’s chances of being struck by lightning. In fact, because steel, and other metal products used in metal roofing are both an electrical conductor and noncombustible, it’s actually one of the safest construction materials on the market today. When lightning strikes a roof, metal offers a quick exit strategy that will minimize the lightning’s effect on your home. In summary, the materials used in the construction of your roof have no bearing on your chances of being struck by lightning. In the event that your home is struck by lightning, a metal roof really works in your favor.
WHAT IS THE ACTUAL REASONING BEHIND THIS COMMON MISCONCEPTION?
As everyone knows, metal is an excellent conductor for electricity. Because this is widely known, many people wrongly assume that a metal roof makes your home more vulnerable to lightning strikes. The actual effect of a well-constructed and installed metal roof, however, is protective. When lightning strikes a roof or structure, it moves along the least resistant path towards the ground. Because a metal or tile roof isn’t grounded, like a lightning rod or a tree, there is no reason for it to attract lightning. If, by chance, your home is struck by lightning, the metal roof actually acts as a conductor that quickly directs the lightning away from your home to the ground.
SO, IS A METAL ROOF INSTALLED BY A PROFESSIONAL ROOFER LIKE SUNRISE ROOFING RIGHT FOR ME?
When it comes to employing roofing materials, tile and steel are at the top of the list for being the most durable and longest lasting. Metal roofs far outlast any asphalt shingle product by 20–50-years. The life expectancy of an asphalt shingle roof, in most cases is around 20 years, especially if insurance companies become involved.
Also, steel roofs reflect the sun and can drastically lower your cooling costs during the summer. They also provide additional insulation to help keep your Florida home warmer in winter. They can sustain winds far better than other roofing material used because of the way they are constructed. Metal roofs are also fireproof, which is an added safety feature. Steel requires less maintenance and upkeep than other roofing material especially ceramic tile roofs. The cost of installing a metal roof over its lifetime makes it a wise investment that can pay for itself over time. For Florida underwriters, metal roofs are viewed as lasting well over 50 years if properly maintained.
And, contrary to popular belief, they will not make your home more susceptible to lightning strikes during Florida thunderstorms.
WHY CHOOSE SUNRISE ROOFING COMPANY?
If you are looking for a roofer in Jacksonville Beach and want to discuss the available options you have to choose from, give us a call. At Sunrise Roofing we have over 25 years of experience, first as a General Contractor and now as a Professional Roofing Contractor. We specialize in all types of residential and commercial roofs including asphalt shingle, metal and tile roofs, for slant and flat construction. We offer comprehensive roofing services including maintenance, repairs, replacement and provide free inspections and written estimates.
Our professional contractors are ready to help you make the right decision for your home, based on your budget and needs. Give us a call today at 904-323-1929.
