Why Noise Levels Typically Aren’t a Problem for Metal Roofs

There are a few common questions clients tend to have when considering a metal roof installation on any structure, and some of these tend to surround the realm of noise. There’s a key misconception sometimes at play here, though: That metal roofs are naturally much noisier than other roofing types, particularly during weather events like rain or hail.

At Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we’re your one-stop shop for all things metal roofing around Michigan, including metal roofing panels, metal roofing shingles and more. Here are some basics on decibel levels and noise, a comparison of rain noise levels on other roofing materials versus metal roofs, and some of the reasons why any gaps in noise levels are either nonexistent or far, far lower than you may have assumed.

How Decibel Levels Work

For those who are unfamiliar, a decibel (dB) is the unit of measurement used to gauge sound intensity. Noise levels are measured in terms of dB, and typically range from 0 dB (the threshold for human hearing) to about 140 dB (a jet engine at takeoff). As a reference point, normal conversation is around 60 dB, while a busy street can reach up to 80 dB.

Rain Noise on Metal Roofs

When it comes to rain noise specifically, there’s often an assumption that metal roofs will be significantly louder than other roofing materials. However, studies have shown that this isn’t necessarily the case.

One study from the Acoustic Group in Sweden compared rain noise on asphalt shingles to rain noise on a metal roof. It found that rain on asphalt shingles came in at an average of 46 dB, while rain on a metal roof averaged 52 dB.

Simply put, this is not a large enough difference to be noticeable to most people. Human ears can’t detect a difference of less than 3 dB, meaning that most people wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference between rain on asphalt shingles and metal roofs.

Reasons for Minimal Noise Levels

There are several factors that contribute to the minimal noise levels on metal roofs:

• Underlayment: Most roofing systems, including metal roofs, have an underlayment layer designed to absorb sound and reduce noise levels. This underlayment can be made from materials like felt, foam or rubber.
• Structural Design: The way a metal roof is installed can also impact noise levels. Proper installation techniques, such as using clips and fasteners to secure the metal panels, can minimize sound vibrations and reduce noise levels.
• Insulation: Insulation in the attic or ceiling space of a structure can further dampen any sound from rain on a metal roof.

Additional Noise Reduction Techniques

If you want to go even further and reduce noise levels on a metal roof, there are additional techniques that can be used. These include:

• Attic Ventilation: Proper ventilation in the attic can help to disperse any sound that does make its way into the space.
• Using Sound-Absorbing Materials: Adding sound-absorbing materials, such as acoustic tiles or insulation, to the ceiling of a structure can also help to minimize noise levels.
• Adding Overlays: Some homeowners choose to add an additional layer of roofing material over their metal roofs, such as shingles or tiles. This extra layer can further reduce any potential noise from rain.

Value of High-Quality Materials

Now, much of what we’ve gone over here can change quickly if you’re working with low-quality materials. If you have a metal roof that’s poorly installed, or made from subpar materials, you might experience more noise than average during rain events.

But as long as the installation is done correctly and quality materials are used, most homeowners won’t notice any significant difference in noise levels between metal roofs and other roofing types. High-quality metal roofs can be just as quiet as traditional shingle roofs, while offering superior durability and longevity.

So if you’re considering a metal roof for your home or building, don’t let fear of excessive noise hold you back. With proper installation and high-quality materials from Mid Michigan Metal Sales, you can enjoy all the benefits of a metal roof without sacrificing peace and quiet. Contact us today for more information or to get started on your metal roofing project, no matter where you’re located in the great state of Michigan.