The Truth About Metal Roofs: Myths vs Reality

When people hear the words “metal roof,” it often sparks a mix of assumptions: noisy in the rain, quick to rust, or only suitable for industrial buildings. But in reality, modern metal roofing—especially lightweight, coated steel roofing like Metrotile—has evolved far beyond those outdated misconceptions.

If you’re considering a new roof or planning a refurbishment, it’s time to set the record straight. Let’s bust some common myths and uncover the real benefits of today’s metal roofing systems.

Myth 1: Metal Roofs Are Noisy in the Rain

Reality: This is one of the most common misconceptions—and it couldn’t be further from the truth with today’s technology.

Modern metal roofs like Metrotile are installed over a layer of underlay, battens, and insulation, all of which absorb sound and dampen vibrations. The result? They’re no noisier than any other type of roof—and often quieter than older tile or slate systems that lack proper underlay. Modern metal roof tiles also consist of multiple layers, not just a thin layer of steel, that include acoustic membranes to dampen any noise from rainfall.

Myth 2: Metal Roofs Rust Easily

Reality: Steel roofing used to be prone to corrosion—but not anymore.

Metrotile uses high-grade, galvanised steel coated with a protective, weatherproof layer and finished with a natural stone coating. This multi-layered protection makes it exceptionally resistant to rust, UV, frost, and salt corrosion—even in coastal or exposed environments.

This also rings true for when cutting or nailing metal roofs. Metrotile specifications recommend using any form of cold-cutting blade such as a guillotine for cutting tiles as it encloses the protective layers within the tile and prevents rusting. With nailing, double-dipped, galvanised steel nails are recommended to ensure the nails don’t rust and cause degradation issues to the metal roof tiles over time.

Myth 3: Metal Roofing Looks Industrial

Reality: Metal roofs used to be mostly seen on factories or farm buildings—but Metrotile has changed that.

Our roofing profiles are designed to replicate the look of traditional slate or clay tiles, with authentic texture and natural finishes. No longer are metal roofs just large, industrial sheets, they’re stylish, profiled designs with natural stone finishes that have the strength and durability of steel.

Whether you’re reroofing a bungalow, planning an extension, or building new, Metrotile offers curb appeal without compromise.

Myth 4: Metal Roofs Are Too Heavy for My Property

Reality: It’s actually the opposite—lightweight metal roofing is ideal for weight-sensitive structures.

Metrotile’s tiles weigh as little as one-seventh the weight of concrete or clay tiles, making them perfect for:

• Extensions

• Garden buildings

• Low-pitch roofs

• Timber or modular construction

• Refurbishment projects where roof loading is limited

Myth 5: Metal Roofs Aren’t Energy Efficient

Reality: Metal roofing reflects heat instead of absorbing it, helping to regulate internal temperatures.

Metrotile roofs are designed to work with effective roof ventilation and insulation systems, helping to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Want to go a step further? You can also integrate Metrotile’s eQube solar tiles to generate clean energy directly from your roof.

Myth 6: They Don’t Last as Long as Other Roof Types

Reality: Steel roofing is incredibly durable and built to last for decades.

Metrotile tiles come with a 40-year weatherproof guarantee and are tested for extreme wind uplift, impact resistance, and fire safety (achieving excellent fire ratings across profiles). That means you’re getting a roof designed for long-term performance with minimal maintenance.

Final Thought: Don’t Let Old Myths Hold You Back

Metal roofing has come a long way—and Metrotile is at the forefront of that transformation. With beautiful profiles, outstanding durability, and future-ready features like solar integration, there’s never been a better time to rethink what a metal roof can do.

Looking for more advice or a quote? Contact Metrotile today and discover why thousands of homeowners and developers are switching to lightweight steel.