Though metal roofing offers many pluses, there are a few drawbacks or concerns worthy of mention. For the most part, metal roofing manufacturers have improved their products to address or solve many of these concerns:

Cost. The biggest drawback is initial cost. Metal roofing is equivalent in cost to other premium materials: from about $150 to $600 per square (100 square feet). The trick is that you get it back if you stay in the house for a long time. Of course, if you plan to move in a couple of years, you probably won’t get the cost returned. Metal roof installation can, however, allow you to save on engineering the supporting structure and on maintenance.

Noise. For some, the sound of rain tapping on the roof is romantic and homey; for others, it’s like living inside a drum. In a rainstorm or hailstorm, living beneath thin sheets of metal is bound to be noisier than living beneath thick slate or tile. Noise can be controlled both by using materials that have structural barriers to minimize the drumming effect and by applying them over sound-deadening insulation and solid plywood sheathing.

Denting. Just as your car will dent if a golf ball hits it, a metal roof may dent if large hailstones fall on it. Aluminum and copper, much softer than steel, are more prone to denting. Some types are guaranteed not to dent, however. Though you shouldn’t have to walk on a roof that doesn’t leak, there may be occasions when a plumber needs to snake out a vent pipe or a chimney sweep needs access to the flue. You can walk on some metal roofs but not all; it depends on how the particular product is made and the type of construction supporting it. Also, metal is slippery when wet.

Marring. Some painted metal roof finishes can peel, chip, fade, scratch, or chalk, although nearly all are guaranteed for many years. Walking on some types, particularly those with a granulated-stone surface, may cause wear. Installers must be careful not to scratch or dent roofing during installation; panels must be treated with care. Unlike conventional roofing, some metal shingle systems are installed from the top down, eliminating the need to walk on them. Once installed, it may be necessary to hose-off roofing now and then to keep it looking good.

Expansion & contraction. Because metal expands and contracts as it warms and cools, most new products have fastening systems that account for movement; otherwise, fasteners that secure roofing tend to be loose.

Modification. Metal roofing materials installed in large panels are more difficult to replace if damaged than individual shingles. Also, if you remodel or add on to your home 10 or 20 years from now, it may be difficult to match the material.

Lightning. Many people assume that, because metal “conducts” electricity, it also “attracts” it. This really isn’t the case, and there are many documented instances of lightning striking trees or other high objects located near metal roofs rather than the roofs themselves. Just the same, if desired, metal roofs can be easily grounded by a lightning protection company.