Metal roofs are gaining popularity across Evergreen and other mountain communities for their durability, energy efficiency, and ability to shed snow easily. But many homeowners still have one big concern:

“Do metal roofs attract lightning?”

The short answer: No, they don’t.
Let’s break down the science and debunk one of the most persistent roofing myths once and for all.

Myth: Metal Roofs Increase the Risk of Lightning Strikes

Many people believe metal roofs are like magnets for lightning. This idea likely comes from the fact that metal is a conductive material — and conductors do move electricity. However, they don’t attract it.

So what does attract lightning?

• Height: Lightning naturally seeks the highest point in an area — tall trees, antennas, or towers.

• Isolation: A lone building on a hill is more likely to be struck than one in a densely populated area.

• Shape and sharp edges: Pointy or elevated structures increase the likelihood of a strike.

• Storm severity and frequency: More lightning activity = higher strike probability.

What’s important to understand is that the roofing material has no influence on where lightning strikes. That means a house with asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or a metal roof has the same probability of being struck under the same physical conditions.

Fact: Metal Roofs Are Among the Safest During a Lightning Strike

Here’s where it gets interesting — if lightning does strike your home, a metal roof is actually the safest material to have.

Here’s why metal roofing provides safety advantages:

• ✅ Non-combustible: Unlike wood or older asphalt shingles, metal won’t catch fire when exposed to high temperatures or electrical energy.

• ✅ Efficient electricity dissipation: Metal spreads the electrical charge evenly across its surface and down into the ground, reducing the risk of concentrated structural damage.

• ✅ Often grounded: Many metal roof systems (especially those installed on commercial buildings or modern homes) are grounded, which further enhances safety.

So in the rare event your home is struck by lightning, a metal roof can and reduce risk to your home’s structure and contents.

Why Evergreen Homes Are Turning to Metal Roofing

Evergreen, CO is no stranger to extreme mountain weather. In a single year, your roof may face:

• Heavy snowfall & ice damming

• High winds and wind-driven debris

• Frequent hail storms

• Extended sun exposure at high altitudes

• Rising wildfire risks during dry summers

Metal roofs aren’t just lightning-safe — they’re one of the best roofing systems for handling all of Evergreen’s environmental hazards.

Key Benefits of Metal Roofs in Evergreen:

• Snow sheds quickly, preventing roof overload and ice dam damage

• Fire-resistant, offering protection in wildfire-prone areas

• Low maintenance and excellent water runoff

• Hail-resistant (especially stone-coated and steel options)

• Reflective coatings reduce summer cooling costs

• Lasts 40–50 years with minimal upkeep

So while many homeowners focus on cost or style, the real win is performance — and metal roofs simply outperform other options in mountain towns like Evergreen.

Still Worried About Lightning? Consider These Tips

If you’re still concerned about lightning protection, there are proactive steps you can take:

• Install a lightning protection system (rods, conductors, grounding cables)

• Use surge protectors inside your home to protect appliances

• Avoid placing large trees too close to your roofline, as lightning may strike them and cause indirect damage

These steps can further reduce your risk — regardless of your roofing material.