Do Either Aluminum Roofs or Steel Roofs Make Noise When it Rains?

When contemplating a roofing material for your property, various factors come into play, from durability, to aesthetics, to energy efficiency. One less-discussed but equally relevant aspect is noise – specifically, the noise generated by rain hitting the roof. This is an issue that many property owners sometimes wonder when they are considering metal roofs made of aluminum or steel.

The Perception of Noise in Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has been the subject of many myths, one of which is the perception that these roofs are exceedingly noisy during rainfall. While the charm of rain pattering against a roof may be appealing to some, it may cause irritation or distraction for others. So, let’s take a closer look at whether aluminum and steel roofs actually make noise when it rains and, if so, how significant this noise is.

Material Characteristics: Aluminum vs. Steel

Metal roofing can make *some* noise when it rains or hails, but very few homeowners find the noise to be too distracting. That is because there are roofing features that are installed to reduce noise transfer. In addition, there is more than one type of metal. For example:

• Aluminum Roofing – Aluminum is a lightweight material, less dense than steel. Its lower density could theoretically make it more susceptible to noise from rain or hail. However, aluminum is also known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, features that make it a popular choice in many roofing applications.
• Steel Roofing – Steel is a more robust and denser material. These characteristics might suggest that steel would produce less noise due to its greater mass. However, steel roofing can be susceptible to corrosion if not adequately treated, which can affect its overall lifespan and potentially its noise levels.

Both forms of roofing are extremely resilient, especially for the weather we have here in the Sacramento region. Both can theoretically make some noise, but that noise tends to be extremely little.

Does Metal Roofing Make Noise?

Metal roofing does not typically make much noise. One of the reasons that many people think that metal roofing makes noise is because there are roofs in some areas – for example, on the top of a barn – made solely of metal, almost like putting sheets of metal on top of a property. While that is a “metal roof” that is not what metal roofing is. Metal roofing contains layers and elements that reduce noise transfer and prevent vibrations and loud noises. They can also be installed with noise mitigation for even less sound.

Noise Mitigation Features

Various noise-mitigating features can be implemented to minimize the sound emanating from metal roofs during rainfall.

• Insulation Layers – An insulating material beneath the metal roofing can absorb the sound of raindrops, making the roof less noisy. This feature is commonly found in both aluminum and steel roofing systems.
• Roof Design – The shape and orientation of your roof can also influence the level of noise. A steeply pitched roof can direct the noise away from the living spaces, reducing the auditory impact.
• Underlayment – A high-quality underlayment can provide an additional noise buffer. This is usually made of rubberized asphalt or similar materials, which absorb the impact of raindrops and reduce noise.

So not only is the roofing material itself not very loud, but there are plenty of strategies that can be used to reduce it even further. The result is a roof that is typically neither loud, nor noticeable, during rain.

The Role of Installation Quality

The quality of the installation can significantly affect noise levels. Proper installation that includes a layer of sheathing and a solid underlayment can mitigate much of the sound produced by raindrops hitting the metal surface. Both aluminum and steel roofs should be installed by experienced professionals to ensure maximum noise reduction.

Comparison with Other Roofing Materials

When compared to traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, the difference in noise levels between aluminum and steel roofs is not as significant as one might presume. The insulating materials used in modern roofing practices have narrowed the gap in noise levels among various types of roofing. Hence, the myth that metal roofs are excessively noisy can be largely dispelled.

So, Are Metal Roofs Noisy?

The answer is nuanced. With proper installation, including the use of quality underlayment and insulation, neither aluminum nor steel roofs should produce distracting noise levels during rainfall. Each material has its set of advantages and disadvantages, but noise does not necessarily need to be a decisive factor when choosing between aluminum and steel.

If you are considering a metal roof and noise is a concern for you, consult with roofing experts who can guide you through the various options available to minimize noise. With the right choices, you can enjoy all the benefits of a metal roof, including its durability and energy efficiency, without any disruptive acoustics.