Hurricane season is here and thoughts about storm damage are a hot topic in the North East. Since lightning strikes are unpredictable and can cause significant damage, it’s usually one of the most talked about elements of these events.
If you live in an area that’s prone to lightning strikes, then you’re probably familiar with the threat that it poses.
Many fear that if they have a metal roof on their home it will attract lightning to strike it. But that is actually not the case at all. In this post, we’ll look more closely at why metal roofs are popular and how lighting impacts them.
What’s the Purpose of a Metal Roof
Metal roofs are an excellent choice for homeowners and business owners. One of the biggest reasons why metal roofs are a great option is durability. Metal roofs are more durable than asphalt shingles because they’re made from steel and aluminum, which means they’re less likely to warp or crack over time. In addition, metal roofing is more resistant to fire than asphalt shingles.
Thanks to conductivity a metal roof is the safest material when it comes to lightning strikes. This provides the lightning strike an actual path to safely get to the ground instead.
Is Lightning a Concern?
Lightning strikes are a concern because they can damage your roof, home, and car. But there is no proof that having a metal roof increases your chances of lightning hitting it. In fact, a recent study by The Metal Construction Association (MCA) titled, “Lightning Strikes and Metal Roofs” found that the material used to construct a roof is actually not a significant factor in determining where lightning will strike.
“Research shows that the material used in roof construction does not influence the risk of a lightning strike,” said Karl Hielscher, MCA’s executive director. “In fact, the presence of a metal roof really shouldn’t statistically increase or decrease the chances of a lightning strike. There are many other factors that influence the actual chance of a lightning strike.”
“As a non-combustible material, a metal roof may even be a more desirable construction option,” Hielscher said.
Why Should You Care About Lightning
Protecting yourself against these threats takes preparation before the weather arrives so that when bad weather hits unexpectedly(like during hurricane season). If you’re worried about lightning striking your metal roof, don’t be. Metal roofs are a great choice for homes in areas with high lightning risk. They’re durable and long-lasting, so they can stand up to the elements year after year without needing a complete roof replacement.
