Metal roofs are one of the most exciting materials a roofing contractor can work on. They provide a lot of benefits for a homeowner should they choose to install one. The grounding process is applied to electronic and metallic materials used in construction, primarily due to concerns over lightning strikes. However, some homeowners often ask if they should ground their metal roofs or not? Read on to learn more.
To Ground or Not To Ground?
First off, grounding isn’t required unless your local building code states otherwise. Generally, choosing not to ground your metal roofing won’t lead to additional risks for your home.
According to experts, lightning strikes areas that provide the least resistance as a path to the ground. Therefore, a metal roof wouldn’t increase the risk of lightning strikes hitting your home than a standard roof since the roof’s surface serves as the path. Grounding a metal roof isn’t necessary as there is no mandate in the National Fire Protection Association’s building codes that requires grounding on your metal roof.
Metal Roof Vs. Lightning
The primary concern about metal roofs is that they attract lightning more than conventional roofing systems since metal is widely known as an electrical conductor. This belief is nothing more than a myth. Metal roofs aren’t susceptible to lightning strikes any more than other roofing systems.
However, some factors contribute to lightning strikes such as having high, thin points, on your metal roof. Be sure to consult your metal roof company to ensure that your roof doesn’t present hazards that attract lightning.
Metal roofing is exceptionally safe even after being struck by lightning as its inflammable nature means that the fire caused by the strike wouldn’t spread as quickly. The electricity from the strike will be spread out across a larger area that dampens the impact, keeping everyone inside safe. In this case, metal building materials prove to be safer than other types of materials such as traditional wood-framed buildings since they easily catch fire.
If you need a metal roof estimate and installation, trust in Carolina Home Specialists! We are a fully insured and certified roofing contractor with the mission to provide our customers with reliable products, installation, and customer service. We are a GAF Master Elite® Certified roofing company! Call us at (336) 740-9915 or fill out our contact form for a free quote!
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