“Will a metal roof or panels make my home hotter?” One of the most common questions we receive as metal roof contractors. With an answer that surprises many homeowners, as a metal roof can actually help make your home cooler! This is due to two separate factors: the metal material and finish, as well as the construction or assembly of the structure. Let’s dig deeper to find how metal panels trap or repel heat.
Material Matters
Different metals conduct heat differently. You could, for example, have a roof made entirely of copper. A totally copper roof would be an excellent conductor of heat. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a very poor conductor of heat. On top of the material, both the color and finish of the metal will affect its heat absorbency and retention. So yes, a metal roof will certainly heat up when exposed to direct sunlight. But throw a reflective finish on the panel and you have a far cooler roof than asphalt.
Construction
While the material and color will certainly affect the amount of heat collected by your roof, the biggest contributor to heat transferring to the home below is the type of construction between the roof and the home. How well that room ventilates plays an important role in controlling the ambient temperature. Once proper ventilation is established, ceiling insulation should be considered. The more there is, the less will be conducted into the room below. To help keep your home cool, some metal roof installers will include above sheathing ventilation (ASV). This system allows air to flow between your roof sheathing and the insulation, then get released. That means less heat energy is absorbed by your home.
Metal roofing is one of the most energy efficient materials available to homeowners and can help lower the energy used to cool off your house. Instead of absorbing all the sun’s heat, metal works to keep the hot air out, which in turn reduces how much air conditioning you need.
So there you have it! With proper installation, metal panels or roofs can keep your home cooler as opposed to trapping heat. Wondering if metal panels are suitable for your next project? We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!
