As metal roofing experts, we’re often asked if metal roofs make noise. In this article, we’ll answer all your questions.
While it’s often the cheapest and most versatile material to choose when installing a new roof on your property, some residents are hesitant to go with this solution because of the potential noise issues.
So Do Metal Roofs Make Noise?
Research suggests that metal roofing is actually 50 decibels louder than an asphalt or tiled roof, which is something you need to consider when choosing the right roofing material for your property – be it commercial, industrial or residential.
Why do Metal Roofs Creak and Make Noise?
Because metal roofing is lighter than other materials, it is prone to creaking and other general noise.
Generally speaking, you will hear creaking from your metal roofing and other minor noises when it rains or as the air pressure surrounding the material expands and contracts with changing weather conditions.
Is Creaking in Metal Roofing a Big Deal?
While the creaking of metal roofing can be an issue for some people, it doesn’t have to be. As long as you are aware that metal roofs will, by nature, be louder than other types of roofing and you’re prepared to manage such things, it is considered one of the best materials for roofing around.
It’s actually one of the major reasons we at Manchester Roofing specialise in metal roofing solutions for your home, work or industry.
When is a Noisy Metal Roof an Issue?
If your metal roofing creaks only during temperature or weather changes (such as a big storm, for example), you shouldn’t have anything to worry about in terms of the stability and maintenance of your roof.
However, if you start to hear creaking noises more frequently – or they change in tone – it might be worth arranging for a consultation from one of our expert roofing specialists.
What Causes a Creaking Metal Roof?
When creaking in your metal roof is abnormal, it’s usually down to:
- Poor installation
- Excessive thermal movement
- Frictional forces
If you believe your creaking may be caused by these things, it’s best to talk to a professional roofing specialist. Our team members will diagnose the issue and provide you with workable solutions to rectify the issue.
How to Soundproof Your Roof
Some of the most common and effective ways to soundproof your roof and avoid excessive noise are:
Insulation
Insulation creates a sound barrier between your metal roof and your ceiling, which deafens the noise and allows for a quieter and more comfortable environment.
Install Roof Underlay
When we install your metal roof, we can also install metal roof underlay. This will reduce the amount of noise you hear from within your home or office.
How to Manage a Creaking Metal Roof
Initially, the best way to manage a creaking roof is to consult a Manchester Roofing team member. Typically, any time you have an issue with your roof, you should talk to a professional roofing company before it becomes a big issue, which could result in structural issues.
To find out more about why your metal roof makes noise and the solutions available, contact Manchester Roofing today.
FAQs
Because metal roofing is lighter than other materials, it is prone to creaking and other general noise. Generally speaking, you will hear creaking from your metal roofing and other minor noises when it rains or as the air pressure surrounding the material expands and contracts with changing weather conditions.
How do you stop a metal roof from making noise? ›
Seven Ways Roofers Soundproof a Metal Roof
- Insulate The Ceiling. ...
- Soundproof The Walls. ...
- Correctly Installing The Panels With Fasteners. ...
- Use Roof Underlayment. ...
- Make Sure The Metal Roof Has The Right Profile. ...
- Sound Deadening Paint. ...
- Having The Right Experience.
Metal roofs may be more noisy during a heavy rain or hailstorm than other products depending on the type of decking used during installation (spaced or solid). Adding more attic insulation can sometimes solve this problem, but that may increase costs. Expansion, contraction and fasteners.
How much louder is a metal roof? ›
While the noise difference between metal and shingle roofs is a mere six decibels, there are other differences that are more pronounced. Here are five of them. Quality metal roofing will last 40 or 50 or more years. Asphalt shingles average 10 or 20.
Is metal roofing noisy when it rains? ›
The short answer is: It depends. Metal roofs without much else, such as an open frame roof on a barn or warehouse, would be WAY louder than an asphalt shingle system. But, with a modern metal roofing system, properly installed, rain noise would be much more comparable to what we see in an asphalt shingle roof.
What is the quietest roofing material? ›
While most roofing materials allow sound to travel through, Onduline® material absorbs part of it, reducing the amount of noise. The unique composition of Onduline roofing sheets bring superior acoustic protection thanks to their composition and particularly the network of cellulosic fibres.
Why do I hear banging on my roof at night? ›
A creaking sound may be caused by the expansion and contraction of the roof material due to temperature changes. A banging or popping sound can be the result of nails loosening or wood shrinking. A tapping sound could be caused by a loose shingle or tile.
How to quiet a metal shed roof? ›
How to Reduce Noises on a Metal Roof – 4 Ways to Make it Quieter
- 1 – Choose the Right Metal Roof Materials. Did you know there are several different types of metal roofing? ...
- 2 – Use a Quality Underlayment. ...
- 3 – Install More Insulation. ...
- 4 – Fasten it Down.
Another way to reduce supply airborne sound in a rooftop HVAC installation is to add silencers. Silencers attenuate by absorption, so silencers typically remove more sound from high frequencies than low frequencies.
When should you not use a metal roof? ›
Shingled roofing is significantly cheaper, although not nearly as durable. Metal roofs aren't good for coastal homes because salt can cause rust. Not everyone likes the sound of rain on metal, and they can be noisy during harsh storms.
Do Metal Roofs Leak More Than Shingles? If installed incorrectly, metal roofs have the potential to leak more than shingles. However, if you find an experienced contractor who can install it correctly, metal roofs shed snow and ice to prevent moisture buildup.
Does a metal roof devalue a house? ›
If you install a metal roof, you'll pay $38,600 and may get a $23,507 boost to home value. Therefore, you will have paid $15,093 that you may not get back in home value. If you pay $22,603 for an asphalt shingle roof, you may get a $15,392 boost to home value.
Do metal roofs affect wireless Internet? ›
Determining the cause of your poor internet connection can be difficult. However, there is an extremely low chance that it is because of your roofing material. While it may seem like a potentially obvious cause, it rarely is. Your metal roofing ultimately doesn't drastically affect your wireless connection.
How long do metal roofs last? ›
Metal roofs can last for fifty years or more, outpacing a shingle roof's lifespan by decades. This impressive durability means that for many homeowners, a metal roof will be the last roof they purchase.
Is it normal to hear noises in roof? ›
Noises in the attic are worrying and can be an indication that rodents or other wildlife may be living in your roof. Attics (lofts) are ideal environments for squirrels and rodents, who damage stored items by gnawing and possibly cause fire hazards by chewing electric cabling.
How do I stop noise coming through my roof? ›
Insulating the attic is one of the best ways to reduce roof noise. This spot is convenient because it's just next to your roof. You can use thermal and sound-dampening devices to make your attic more secure and less noisy.
How do I know if my metal roof is leaking? ›
Signs That May Indicate a Leak in a Metal Roof
- Rust on the Surface of the Roof.
- Improper Roof Movement.
- Issues with Fasteners.
- Holes or Crimping in the Roof.
- Improper Materials or Installation.
- Body of the Roof.
- Transition Points.
- Roof Penetrations.
Throughout the entire roof replacement project, you'll hear scraping, banging, saws, generators buzzing, and the crew walking on your roof all day. The noise will be loudest inside your home during the installation part of your roof replacement, especially if you're getting hail nailing.
