There is a belief that metal roofs increase the likelihood of a lightning strike. This may be because metal is highly conductive, similar to the metal rods that are used to attract lightning.
In this post, your trusted gutter replacement expert, Roofmasters Roofing and Sheet Metal Company, Inc., reveals whether metal roofs really are lightning magnets.
Do Metal Roofs Really Attract Lightning?
The truth is a metal roof will not increase the probability of a lightning stroke, but it may make a lightning strike less dangerous.
While there is a lot of information about how a lightning strike occurs, there is still little information on how it forms and where it will strike. Lightning is a quick discharge of atmospheric static electricity. The three major types of lightning are Intra Cloud (IC), Cloud-to-Cloud and Cloud-to-Ground (CG).
CG poses the most threat to lives and properties. The geography, topography and movements of the storm may affect where lightning strikes. It will go off whether there is a metal roof or not. It’s just not right to assume that metal roofs attract lightning like a lightning rod because lightning rods are designed to capture lightning.
At Roofmasters Roofing and Sheet Metal Company Inc., we install quality metal roofing and gutters. Our team can help you with all your roofing needs, from installation to repairs.
The Real Danger
Lightning discharges at the best conductor that’s nearest to the cloud. For instance, there is a bigger chance that a tall tree will get hit than the shorter one next to it. The roofing material or any material used in an establishment doesn’t determine the probability of a lightning strike.
The damage that a lightning strike can bring depends on the building’s material and if it has a lightning protection system. Materials with poor conductivity such as wood or concrete are more prone to catching fire or explosions. This means that you’re actually safer inside a metal building with a conductive metal roof. A metal building may survive a lightning strike with minimal damage due to its non-combustible steel construction.
For quality roof and gutter replacement, choose Roofmasters Roofing and Sheet Metal Company, Inc. We only use high-quality materials and expert workmanship to give you the best service possible. Call us at (785) 727-7575 or fill in our online form for a free estimate. We work with homeowners in Colby and Hays, KS.