What Are The Disadvantages of a Steel Roof? (And Why It Might Not Matter as Much as You Think)

Introduction

• Higher upfront cost, better long-term value: Steel roofing lasts decades with minimal maintenance, saving money over time.
• Noise and movement concerns minimized: Armadura’s design reduces noise and handles expansion without ongoing maintenance.
• Built to withstand damage: Strong, impact-resistant panels resist hail and allow for easy, localized repairs.
• Common myths debunked: Metal roofs don’t block signals, are lightweight, and can lower insurance premiums.
• Stylish and durable: Modern steel roofs offer curb appeal and long-lasting protection for any home style.

Introduction

At Roof Pros Plus, one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners researching metal roofing is: “What are the disadvantages of a steel roof?”. It’s a fair and important one.

The truth is, no roofing material is 100% perfect. Every system comes with pros and cons, and steel is no exception. However, when you take a closer look at the full picture, it’s clear why steel roofing, especially the Armadura metal roofing system we install, is still the top choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting, and cost-effective solution.

This blog is here to walk you through the most common concerns people have about metal roofing and help you make an informed decision about your home. Our goal is to be transparent while also highlighting why we believe in the product we install.

Common Disadvantages of Steel Roofing

1. Higher Upfront Cost

Yes, steel roofing typically costs more initially than traditional asphalt shingles. However, this is truly a case of “you get what you pay for.” With a lifetime warranty, zero need for regular maintenance, and no need to replace the roof every 10–15 years, metal roofing offers far greater value over time. An Armadura roof can outlast asphalt by 3 to 5 times, saving homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements.

2. Noise During Rain, Hail, or Storms

It’s a common belief that steel roofs are noisier, but it is dependent on the type of steel roof chosen. For example, roofs that must be installed using a strapping system do create a lot of noise as the strapping system creates an air gap and the roof acts as a drum. Standing steam styled steel roof is one of the many styles that require strapping in order for it to be installed. At Roof Pros Plus, our roof is designed to go directly to the deck, leaving no space for air gaps. This not only makes the roof stronger, as it can even be walked all over, but it keeps your home peaceful even in rough weather.

3. Expansion & Contraction Noises

Steel roofs can expand and contract with temperature changes. With this, means exposed fastener roofing systems often shift and loosen, and must be re tightened every so often. This means that while it is still less maintenance than asphalt, re tightening the fasteners should be taken into consideration when deciding what style of steel roof to choose if homeowners are looking for maintenance free. However, Armadura’s concealed fastener system is specifically engineered to allow for movement without creating stress or noise. Our professional installation ensures your roof performs silently and efficiently, even through Northern Ontario’s extreme temperature swings. Therefore our fasteners do not require any maintenance for homeowners alike.

4. Denting from Hail or Falling Branches

While some metal roofing systems may be susceptible to dents, Armadura roofing is made from high-strength, 26-gauge galvanized steel with a textured finish that helps mask imperfections and add strength. It’s extremely impact-resistant and built to withstand Canada’s harsh weather conditions, including heavy snow and hailstorms. For example, the roofing system underwent the soul-crushing environmental testing facility at Underwriters Laboratory in Chicago, and surpassed the highest standards possible. Our system is resistant of up to 2 inch hail.

It is important to note that falling branches are an issue with any style of roof when it comes to repairs. For instance if a home with larger sheets of metal or specific kind of interlocking systems were to be hit with damage, based off the damage level could be impossible to repair, and would require full removal and replacement which can become very costly if insurance does not cover it. As mentioned previously, our metal are smaller, four way interlocking sheets and with our special tool we are able to simply unzip certain areas, and replace them easily without having to redo large sections of the roof, or the entire thing.

5. Other Considerations

One occasional concern is corrosion and colour fading. For instance, it may become apparent if you have ever driven past old tin roofs that begin to rust, or metal roofs that used to be vibrant in colour are no more. This is due to not only the type of material used, but the paint used to coat the material. It is imperative that homeowners make sure to do their research when looking into the different types of metal roofing they may be interested in using, and the kind of paint that is used. Armadura’s steel panels are zinc-coated (galvanized) and finished with baked-on coatings partnered with Sherwin Williams who is renowned for providing the highest quality coatings in the industry. Our collaboration ensures that every Armadura Metal Roof panel is not only coated but fortified with the most resilient and enduring paint. This fusion of strength and excellence guarantees that your roof isn’t just a covering, but a lifetime investment in superior protection and style. With the right product and installer, these potential issues are a thing of the past.

Why You Should Not Be Scared of These Disadvantages

The key here is quality. Many of the concerns homeowners have about steel roofing whether it’s noise, cost, or durability stem from experiences with lower-grade materials or poor installation. But when you choose a high-performance product like Armadura, installed by the experienced professionals at Roof Pros Plus, most of these issues are either greatly minimized or eliminated entirely. When you compare steel to other materials such as asphalt, wood shake, or even other types of metal roofing its benefits clearly outweigh the drawbacks:

• Up to 50+ years of lifespan
• Virtually maintenance free
• Fire-resistant and non-combustible
• Wind and weather-resistant
• Sustainable and recyclable
• Increased resale value
• Energy savings on heating and cooling costs

Even if steel roofing isn’t perfect, it far surpasses traditional roofing in longevity, safety, and performance.

Commonly Perceived Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

1. Metal roofing looks too industrial
   • Oftentimes when people think of a metal roof, they picture an outdated barn style tin roof. The fact is, this is no longer the case. Over the last several decades, metal roofing materials have come a very long way not just in strength and durability, but in style. Homeowners alike now have several styles to choose from wether it be a metal roof that mimics slate, tiles, cedar shake, as well a variety of colours to choose. Armadura steel roofing is designed to look like architectural shingles, offering a high-end aesthetic with the unbeatable performance of steel. With multiple colour options and styles, it suits traditional, contemporary, and rustic homes alike.
2. Metal roofing will interfere with the internet or cell phone signal
   • This is a persistent myth, but it’s simply not true. The steel itself does not interfere with signals, especially not with the way modern homes are wired. If you’re working from home or rely on smart technology, rest assured: metal roofing won’t slow you down.
3. Metal roofing is too heavy and are not suitable for older homes
   • Contrary to what many believe, steel roofing is remarkably lightweight. In fact, Armadura roofing is often lighter than asphalt shingles, making it an ideal choice for older homes that may not be built to support heavier materials like tile or concrete. Not only does a bundle of our metal shingles weigh much less than a bundle of asphalt shingles, but asphalt shingles retain water and snow, increasing the weight left on your roof whereas metal roofing repels it.
4. Metal roofing will make insurance premiums skyrocket
   • This varies by provider, but in many cases, insurance premiums go down with metal roofing. That’s because insurers recognize steel roofs as fire-resistant, storm-resistant, and lower maintenance. This greatly reduces the risk of damage, and therefore, claims. Not to mention, some insurance companies have actually mentioned cancelling policies with homeowners who have asphalt roofs if they do not shovel them off properly in the winter as ice damming is large issue especially in northern Ontario’s climate.

Why Metal Roofing is Still the Best Choice for Homeowners

At the end of the day, metal roofing delivers unmatched peace of mind. With an Armadura steel roof from Roof Pros Plus, you’re investing in a Canadian-made, engineered-to-last, and beautifully finishedroofing system. Installed by a well-known and trusted company with a reputation for quality and service across Northern Ontario.

From extreme durability to aesthetic appeal and low maintenance, metal roofing isn’t just the future, t’s the smarter, longer-lasting choice for today’s homeowners, especially when it’s backed by the proven expertise of Roof Pros Plus.

Conclusion

While steel roofing has a few disadvantages on paper, the real-world performance, especially with a product like Armadura, proves it’s a superior option for most homeowners. At Roof Pros Plus, we’ve helped hundreds of families across Northern Ontario upgrade their homes with metal roofing that lasts a lifetime, without the headaches or breaking the bank.

Contact us today for a free quote and discover how a steel roof can transform your home’s protection, value, and curb appeal.