What many of us have feared has become the reality – wildfires are becoming more widespread throughout the U.S. In fact, since 1983, federal fire agencies have reported forest fires across 216 million combined acres. This is more than twice the area of California!
As the climate changes across the country, it’s critical to protect your home from potential damage, especially if your property is in a heavily wooded area.
When it comes to preparing your home for wildfires, one of your home’s best defenses is its roof. Why is metal roofing used in wooded areas? Are there any other benefits to having a metal roof (besides fire-resistance)? Let’s find out!
Metal roofing is fire-resistant
The most obvious reason why metal roofing is a great pick for homes in wooded areas is its fire resistance. Unlike other popular materials (such as asphalt shingles), if an ember or a spark touches your metal roof, it will not ignite. This means that your home will be protected from a wildfire outbreak even if your neighbor’s house is affected by it.
However, keep in mind that metal roofing comes in many options. Aluminum and zinc alloy roofs are generally considered more fire-resistant than copper or steel.
Don’t worry about falling branches
One of the biggest advantages of metal roofing is its high durability. If your home is located in a wooded area, it’s not uncommon to have falling limbs during storms or heavy winds. Compared to other materials on the market (such as asphalt shingles), metal has a much better impact rating (Class 4 Impact Resistance).
Of course, no roofing material is 100% foolproof. The seams of metal roofs are especially susceptible to winds. However, the overall risks will be much lower if you choose this material.
Protect your home from pests
On the one hand, living in a wooded area is wonderful because you are constantly surrounded by nature. On the other hand, it also means animals like squirrels, mice, raccoons, and woodpeckers can be frequent (and unwanted) visitors.
You can do all the pest control you want, but if there are holes throughout your property, pests will keep coming in. Often, homeowners don’t think about how much of a difference the right roofing makes. Metal roofs are less attractive to animals since they have a smooth surface and don’t have penetration points.
Better for debris
When living in a wooded area, you must face the fact that there will be leaves, pine needles, and moss everywhere. Thanks to their slippery, smooth surface, metal roofs can ease some of the hassle that comes with dealing with these elements. In fact, in most cases, all the debris will slide off on its own, rather than accumulate and rot (which is a considerable risk in wooded, damp environments). And if it doesn’t, you can easily hose it down at the edges!
Great energy efficiency
Several studies (and most articles on Google agree) show that metal roofing is among the most energy-efficient roofing materials currently available. If your property is surrounded by many trees, you probably have less direct sunlight. Well, metal roofs are highly reflective, not just of direct sunlight, but also of diffuse ambient light. As a result, they will minimize heat absorption in the warmer months and retain heat in the colder seasons.
Other roofing solutions for wooded areas
If you’re thinking about the best roofing options for your home, you may also consider looking into clay or concrete tile roofing. Like metal roofing, these materials are also very durable (clay tiles can sometimes last even 100 years) and resistant to strong impact.
In fact, you’ll notice that clay tile roofing is often used in hot and dry climates. That’s because it reflects sunlight and doesn’t absorb much heat, plus it allows better air circulation.
However, if you decide to go with clay or concrete tiles, you should know that these materials are extremely heavy. In some cases, they may require additional structural support, which, of course, increases their cost.
Final thoughts: Why is metal roofing used in wooded areas
Owning a home with a tree or two in your yard has its charm and benefits. When you live in a wooded area, it feels great to have all that natural beauty surrounding you. Trees are also an excellent way to provide shade, which is especially important if some parts of your home are facing the sun.
However, homeowners with properties in wooded areas also have to put more thought into their choice of roof, since there are many risks to be aware of.
When it comes to the best roofs for wooded areas, metal roofing is unbeatable. Yes, the price tag may be higher than for other options. But thanks to their incredible durability, energy efficiency, and almost no maintenance required, it’s an investment that will quickly pay off!
To understand how much a metal roof may cost you, this calculator provides you with a free estimate. If you prefer to get a roof with a higher aesthetic value, you can also compare the costs of a cedar shake roof. Whichever option you decide to go for, remember that both of the materials require precision, expertise, and attention to detail in their installation process.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 05/06/2025