Image of heavy rain on a tile metallic roof of a house, with water falling from the eaves.

Homeowners often worry about the unfair reputation that metal roofs are noisy when it rains. Before deciding whether metal is the best material for the roof of your home, know that metal roofs are not significantly louder than other types of roofing.

There are different types of metal roofs, and they produce as much noise as shingles, especially when properly installed. To know more about this and make sure you are well informed, read our article for an explanation of why people think metal roofs are noisy and how it is actually not.

Are Metal Roofs Loud When It Rains?

The idea that metal roofs are loud when it rains is one of the most persistent myths in roofing. While it is true that the sound of rain on metal can be noticeable, it is not as loud as many people assume. You should not associate a house metal roof with a simple barn or shed tin roof with a sheet of aluminum–these ARE noisy.

Modern installation techniques and materials have significantly improved the noise control of metal roofs in people's homes. Insulation, underlayment, and attic space all play critical roles in dampening the sound, making the experience inside your home far more serene than you might expect.

Do you want to know more? Read this other Wisercosts guide on the pros and cons of metal roofing installation.

How Loud Is Rain On A Metal Roof?

If you have ever considered installing a metal roof over your head, you have probably asked yourself how noisy metal roofs are. The truth is it depends: The sound of rain on a metal roof can vary according to the type of roof system, insulation, and the building's construction. 

On average, the noise level of rain on a metal roof is comparable to that of other roofing materials, ranging from a gentle patter to a more pronounced drumming during heavy rainfall. However, with proper insulation and sound-deadening underlayment, the noise can be reduced to a level comparable to or even quieter than that of other roofs.

Are Metal Roofs Louder Than Shingles?

When comparing metal roofs to traditional asphalt shingles, the difference in noise levels is often minimal when both are correctly installed. The actual decibel difference is not even big enough to be noticeable by human hearing, so we literally cannot tell the difference.

Even so, shingles may naturally absorb more sound due to their composition, but modern metal roofs, equipped with the proper underlayment and insulation, can offer similar noise reduction. In some cases, the noise from a metal roof might be less noticeable than that from shingle roofs, especially when combined with soundproofing materials.

If you are still concerned that metal roofs are noisy, discuss insulation options with Wisercosts' roofing contractors to ensure a peaceful living environment, even during the heaviest downpours. Call them now!