Do Metal Roofs Attract Lightning? No! Here's Why

TLDR;

No, metal roofs do not attract lightning. In fact, they're one of the safest roofing options during a thunderstorm because they are non-combustible and help safely disperse electricity to the ground when properly grounded.

Metal Roof Lightning Myths: Separating Fear from Facts

Do metal roofs attract lightning? No, they don’t.

That myth has been circulating for years, and it's simply not backed by science. Homeowners often worry because "metal" sounds like a magnet for electricity. But that assumption is far from reality. In truth, a metal roof can be one of the safest choices during lightning storms. At Birds Eye Roofing, we’ve helped hundreds of customers understand why their metal roofs are not just safe—they're smart.

Why the Myth Exists:

• People associate metal with electricity.
• Misunderstanding of how lightning actually works.
• Fear-driven rumors that overlook the science.

How Does Lightning Choose Where to Strike?

Lightning doesn’t care if your roof is metal, asphalt, or wood.

It follows the path of least resistance to the ground. Here’s what influences where lightning strikes:

Key Factors:

• Height: Tall structures are more likely targets.
• Isolation: A lone tree or building in an open field is at higher risk.
• Shape: Sharp, pointed objects (like lightning rods) help attract and divert strikes.
• Path to Ground: Anything offering a better path to the earth is more likely to get hit.
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Think of lightning like water. It flows wherever it can get to the ground easiest. The material of your roof doesn’t draw lightning — it's the roof’s position and grounding that matter.

Conductivity vs. Attraction:

• Conductivity (metal is good at this) allows electricity to move through it.
• Attraction is about location and structure — not material.

So while metal conducts, it does not attract.

Are Metal Roofs More Likely to Be Struck by Lightning?

Still wondering: "Are metal roofs more likely to be hit?" The answer is no.

What matters more is:

• The height of your home
• The presence of taller objects nearby (trees, poles)
• How isolated your home is on the landscape

Your metal roof isn’t inviting lightning in. It’s just well-prepared if it ever happens.

What Happens If a Metal Roof Gets Struck by Lightning?

Here’s where metal really shines: it handles lightning better than other materials.

Metal Roof Benefits:

• Non-combustible: Won’t catch fire
• Disperses energy quickly
• Grounds electricity safely (when the building is grounded properly)
• No damage to internal systems when surge protectors are installed
• Can be further protected and prolonged with Metal Roof Coatings that add weather resistance and extend lifespan

Compare that to wood or asphalt shingles, which can ignite, melt, or even cause fires.

How Metal Roofs Compare to Other Roofing Materials

Let’s break down lightning safety across popular roof types:

Why Metal Wins:

• Safer during storms
• Resilient to fire
• Lasts longer than most alternatives



Looking to invest long-term and sleep soundly during a storm? Metal is a clear winner.

How Often Does Lightning Hit Metal Roofs? Real Data

It’s rare.

According to data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and NOAA:

• Only a very small percentage of house fires from lightning involve metal roofs.
• Structures with metal roofs that are properly grounded almost never experience damage.

What Roofing Experts Say About Metal Roofs & Lightning

You don’t just have to take our word for it. Roofing experts and building engineers back it up:

Industry Voices:

• "Metal roofs are some of the safest roofing materials when it comes to lightning," says Jason Miller, Roofing Consultant.
• Lightning protection specialist, Tom Evans, explains: "The key is not the roofing material but whether the home has proper electrical grounding. Metal is just better at channeling energy."

Lightning Safety Tips for Every Homeowner

Whether you have a metal roof or not, here are some smart ways to keep your home safer:

Home Lightning Safety Checklist:

• Install a whole-house surge protector
• Ensure your home is properly grounded by a licensed electrician
• Consider lightning rods if you're in a high-risk area
• Keep tall trees trimmed away from your roof
• Use UL-listed electrical devices

Bonus Tip: If you're planning a new roof, discuss grounding systems with your contractor — especially if you're going metal.

Why Metal Roofs Are One of the Safest Roofing Choices

Still worried about your metal roof attracting lightning? You don’t need to be.

Let’s Recap:

• Metal doesn’t attract lightning — height and placement do.
• If lightning strikes, metal is non-combustible and safely conducts electricity.
• Metal roofs are fire-resistant, durable, and storm-resilient.



When installed and grounded correctly, they are among the best choices for lightning-prone areas.