When we talk with homeowners about having metal roofing installed, we find that many of them are concerned about a metal roof attracting lightning. The term 'lightning magnet' is one we hear often. That's one of the more common myths, and it couldn't be further from the truth. Of course, with the frequent thunderstorms we get here in the Minneapolis area, we realize how this might be an issue. Lightning striking a home can cause a fire, and the idea that the roof you put on your home might make it more vulnerable to lightning is understandable.  But here is the reality:
  • No, having a metal roof on your home DOES NOT mean it's more likely to be struck by lightning
  • If your home does get hit by a bolt of lightning, if you have a metal roof the damage that might be caused is far less than if you have another type of roofing such as asphalt shingle or wood shake (source: Metal Construction Association)
So where do people get the idea that a metal roof will attract lightning?  Perhaps it's because lightning rods are made of metal, so people assume it's the metal that draws the lightning to the rod. In fact, it's the height, not the material, that attracts the lightning. Metal works well as a lightning rod because it provides a low-resistance path for the electrical current to travel to the ground, where it's dispersed.  Materials that don't conduct the electricity (are resistant) are much more likely to combust, because it's the friction caused by the resistance that results in fire. So if you're concerned about protecting your home from potential damage caused by a lightning strike, perhaps it's time to talk about having a metal roof installed on your home.  Why not contact us today for a free, in-home estimate? There's no obligation, and we'd love to tell you about more reasons why a metal roof could be the best thing you can do for your home.