St. Louis Wants to Know: How Does Metal Roofing Hold up in the Rain?

Metal is a great, waterproof material – think of your car and how rarely it leaks. That’s why metal makes such good roofing. Not only is it durable, but it offers maximum sealant against the elements. That said, metal roofing is not perfect under all circumstances – especially if it is poorly installed.

Advantages of a Metal Roof

First and foremost, metal is extremely durable, as the material will not crack or split, and will stay sealed for its lifetime. Metal is also, by far, the most waterproof material available for a roof, and can maximize rain shedding.

Because of its construction, metal panel roofing provides maximum coverage per shingle. The exposed surface area and nature of the material combine to seal against rain and prevent leaks. This waterproof surface also decreases the risk of mildew and water damage compared to traditional roofing materials. Metal roofs are also unlikely to leak, if homeowners have professionals install them.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of metal is its long lifespan. Warranties generally last a minimum of 30 years on a metal roof – and you probably won’t need it. It’s reasonable to expect that your metal roof will last as long as your house, with only minor repairs needed.

Disadvantages of a Metal Roof

Metal roofing requires careful installation. Leaks are susceptible, for example, most commonly as a result of poorly installed screws. When a screw is overdriven, it displaces the rubber washer and lets rain seep in. On the other hand, under-driving a screw does not seal the roof completely. Misaligned screws provide poor sealing altogether.

One of the most common negative beliefs is that metal roofing is noisy when it rains. It’s easy to see the logic here; rain is loud batting against a car or lone metal sheet. Keep in mind, however, that metal roofing is not simply metal sheets without any protection between you and the rain. Your home’s frame helps dull the noise and keep things quiet. When compared to asphalt roofing, in fact, metal ranks only slightly louder – at 52 decibels (the standard measurement of sound) compared to 46.

Finding the Right Contractor

The biggest concern, then, should be proper installation of your metal roof. Picking the right installation contractor or roofing company that serves the St. Louis area is key to getting the most out of your roof. Installed properly, a roof is completely waterproof, so it’s important to pick a firm you know and trust to do the best job possible.