Roof Myths That Cost Homeowners Money

When it comes to roofing, everyone seems to have an opinion — neighbors, online forums, even family members who “know a guy.” But misinformation spreads quickly, and in roofing, bad advice doesn’t just waste time — it can cost homeowners thousands of dollars.

At Family First Exteriors, we’ve spent years helping St. Louis homeowners undo the consequences of well-intentioned but incorrect roofing “tips.” Below, we separate fact from fiction and clear up some of the most common roofing myths that quietly drain your wallet.

1. Myth: Metal Roofs Attract Lightning

Truth: Metal roofs don’t attract lightning — they actually make your home safer.

Lightning is drawn to the highest point, not the most metallic surface. If your home is struck, a metal roof safely disperses electrical energy throughout its structure instead of catching fire. That’s because metal is non-combustible and conducts electricity efficiently, grounding the charge harmlessly when installed correctly.

In fact, many commercial buildings and hospitals use metal roofing precisely for this reason. If you’re in St. Louis and considering a long-lasting, fire-resistant roof, metal is a smart investment — not a lightning risk.

2. Myth: Pressure Washing Shingles Is Safe and Effective

Truth: Pressure washing does more harm than good.

A high-pressure washer can strip protective granules off asphalt shingles, leaving them brittle and exposed to UV damage. It can also drive water under the shingle layers, leading to leaks, mold, and deck rot.

The best cleaning method is a gentle, low-pressure wash using approved roof cleaners and soft brushes. Professional roof cleaning companies understand the correct techniques and chemicals that remove algae and moss without damaging the roof surface.

3. Myth: Dark Roofs Always Mean Poor Energy Efficiency

Truth: Color is only one factor in temperature control — ventilation and insulation matter more.

While dark roofs do absorb more sunlight, modern roofing materials include reflective coatings and radiant barriers that minimize heat absorption. In fact, an improperly ventilated attic with a light-colored roof can still trap more heat than a well-ventilated attic with darker shingles.

For homes in humid climates like St. Louis, proper attic ventilation and insulation have a greater impact on comfort and energy savings than roof color alone.

4. Myth: New Roofs Don’t Need Maintenance for Years

Truth: Even brand-new roofs require regular inspections.

Many homeowners believe that once a new roof is installed, it’s worry-free for a decade or more. Unfortunately, minor issues — such as loose flashing, small punctures from debris, or clogged gutters — can still develop early on. Left unchecked, these small problems grow into leaks and warranty disputes.

Most roofing manufacturers recommend annual inspections, especially after storms. Family First Exteriors offers post-installation maintenance plans that help homeowners protect their investment from day one.

5. Myth: All Roofing Warranties Cover the Same Things

Truth: Warranties vary — and most don’t cover workmanship issues.

A standard manufacturer warranty typically covers defects in materials, not installation errors. If a contractor misaligns shingles, fails to flash properly, or uses the wrong fasteners, that damage isn’t covered by the product warranty.

Homeowners often find this out too late — usually after a leak appears. That’s why it’s essential to choose a certified contractor who can provide both manufacturer and workmanship warranties for complete protection.

6. Myth: Roofing Over Old Shingles Saves Money

Truth: It might save upfront costs but creates expensive problems later.

Installing new shingles over existing ones (called “roof-over” installation) hides underlying damage instead of fixing it. Moisture-damaged decking, trapped debris, or warping go unnoticed until the new roof begins to fail prematurely.

Moreover, the added weight can strain your home’s structure and void manufacturer warranties. The small savings from skipping tear-off rarely justify the long-term risk. A full replacement ensures a clean foundation and maximum lifespan.

7. Myth: A Few Missing Shingles Aren’t a Big Deal

Truth: One missing shingle can compromise an entire section of roof.

Shingles work together as a continuous waterproof layer. When one comes loose, wind and rain can penetrate the exposed gap, damaging the underlayment and decking beneath. If moisture spreads, the repair cost multiplies fast.

A missing shingle is a small repair now — and a potential roof replacement later if ignored. The faster you address it, the more money you save.

8. Myth: You Can Always Spot Roof Damage from the Ground

Truth: Most serious damage hides where you can’t see it.

From the street, your roof might look fine. But small cracks, popped nails, worn flashing, and sealant failures are invisible from ground level. Many leaks start inside vents or valleys — places even binoculars won’t reveal.

That’s why professional inspections are essential. Roofers use moisture meters, drones, and close-up assessments to identify hidden problems long before they show up as ceiling stains.

9. Myth: Roof Repairs Are Too Expensive to Do Right Away

Truth: Delaying repairs is what makes them expensive.

Small leaks or flashing issues are often under $500 to fix. Wait a few months, and those same issues can escalate to $3,000-plus in structural damage, insulation replacement, and mold remediation.

Roofing economics favor early intervention. Every dollar spent on preventive maintenance typically saves five to ten in future costs. In St. Louis, where freeze-thaw cycles and humidity accelerate wear, early repair isn’t optional — it’s essential.

10. Myth: All Roofing Contractors Are the Same

Truth: Skill, certification, and ethics vary widely.

Two bids may look similar on paper, but not all contractors operate at the same professional standard. Some cut corners on flashing, ventilation, or cleanup to offer lower prices. Others lack insurance or certifications from major manufacturers.

When choosing a roofer, verify:

Proof of insurance and local licensing
References or portfolio of local projects
Manufacturer certifications (e.g., GAF, CertainTeed)
Clear warranties and no-pressure communication

Family First Exteriors proudly meets all these standards, providing St. Louis homeowners peace of mind with transparent estimates and superior craftsmanship.

The Bottom Line

Roofing myths persist because they sound believable — or because they once held some truth decades ago. But modern roofing science, materials, and building codes have changed dramatically. Acting on outdated information can void warranties, waste money, and reduce your roof’s lifespan.

The best way to protect your home is with facts, not folklore. Schedule an inspection, ask questions, and rely on professionals who understand both traditional techniques and modern roofing systems.

At Family First Exteriors, our goal is simple: keep your home safe, dry, and efficient — while helping you make informed, financially sound decisions.

If you’ve heard a roofing “tip” that sounds suspicious, we’ll be glad to set the record straight – schedule an inspection today — because in roofing, what you don’t know really can cost you.