Some people believe that metal roofs attract lightning strikes, making them hesitant to install the otherwise durable and energy-efficient roofing material on their homes. While metal is a common conductor of electricity, having a metal roof is a different story. Easton Roofing, one of the leading roofing contractors in Kansas City, discusses more below.
It’s a Popular Misconception
Fortunately, the well-known speculation about metal roofing is nothing but a myth. A metal roof does not make your residential property a target for deadly lightning strikes. In fact, any building material is not a determining factor of the likelihood of being hit with lightning. Instead, the exact location where a bolt of lightning discharges depends on geography and topography, as well as the movements of the storm.
The Science Behind It
Like any electrical charge, lightning finds the path of least resistance to release. A tall structure provides an easier path because it shortens the distance the lightning has to travel through the air. This means the placement and size of the building determine where it will strike, not the structural or roofing material.
Moreover, electricity passes more easily through a good conductor like steel than it does through a poor conductor like concrete. Since the poor conductor has more electrical resistance, it converts the electrical energy into heat, potentially causing fires. A conductive metal roof built with a metal structural frame offers lightning a low resistance path to the earth, allowing it to survive a lightning strike with less damage. The actual risk during a lightning strike also depends on whether the building is made of or contains combustible materials.
So, in conclusion, a metal roof with its non-combustible metal construction poses a lower risk of attracting lightning than a building constructed of combustible materials.
You can count on Easton Roofing for high-quality roof repair and roof replacement services in and around Kansas City. Our certified team is committed to delivering superior workmanship and industry-leading products to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of our customers. Call us at (913) 933-8065 or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate.
