Already popular in the commercial sector, metal roofing is growing in popularity in the residential field thanks to its durability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. But despite all the benefits, most homeowners considering the pros and cons of a metal roofing upgrade ask us if their roof will be noisy during rain or hail storms. And this is certainly a valid concern given the long lifespan of metal roofs (40 to 70 years). That’s why we’re going to help you understand the noise level of metal roofs.
1. A Noisy Reputation
The common misconception of metal roofs being loud in the rain or a hailstorm can be traced back to metal roofs installed generations ago. Primarily used in barns and porch roofs, the metal roofing was installed over open framing with nothing between the panels and the building below. A metal roof installed like this can be pretty noisy when the rain pours down because there’s no buffer in between to deaden the sound.
Today, metal roofs installed on homes are no noisier than any other type of roofing material. In fact, the noise difference between shingles and a properly installed metal roof is a mere 6 decibels. The decibel level of rain on an asphalt shingle is 46, while rain on metal roofing is 52.
2. It Comes Down to Installation
The best way to ensure your metal roof isn’t noisy is to hire a qualified and experienced contractor with in-depth knowledge about proper metal roof installation.
For instance, loosely fitted metal panels will likely shift and move at contact and catch wind underneath them. This will create vibrations and an even louder noise as the panels rub against other parts of the roof. When installed correctly, a metal roof may even be quieter than a conventional shingle roof. Most people cannot distinguish between sounds 5 to 8 decibels apart.
3. Proper Amount of Insulation and Substrate
The denser the barrier between your metal roof covering and your living space, the less noise you’ll be hearing. In addition to having a high-quality roof deck, installing the correct amount of insulation in your attic or the top-level ceiling plays a critical role in a quieter roof. Proper insulation will keep the interior of your home quieter and result in significant energy savings.If you need a new roof, get in touch with the reputable and local metal roofing experts at S&S Roofing. We can answer more of your questions and provide you with a high-quality metal roof installation in Arlington, WA.
