I’ve swapped out both neoprene and EPDM washers over the years, and honestly, I haven’t noticed much difference in noise from the washer or screw itself. Most of the “pinging” complaints I’ve gotten seem to come down to the roof panel gauge and how the purlins are spaced. Thinner panels on wider spans just amplify everything when hail hits. Fastener type might play a small part, but roof design’s usually the bigger culprit in my experience.
Yeah, I’d say you’re spot on. Washer material barely moves the needle for noise. I’ve seen folks blame screws or washers, but honestly, if you’ve got a 29-gauge panel stretched over wide purlins, it’s gonna sound like a drum in a hailstorm no matter what. Sometimes people just want an easy fix, but roof design’s usually where the real issue is hiding.
Washer material barely moves the needle for noise.
Yeah, I’ve noticed the same thing. Folks get hung up on the little stuff, but if you’re running 29-gauge over big spans, it’s just gonna echo. I’ve even tried those “sound deadening” washers—honestly couldn’t tell a difference. Sometimes you just gotta accept that metal’s gonna be loud in a storm, especially if the panels are thin.
Sometimes you just gotta accept that metal’s gonna be loud in a storm, especially if the panels are thin.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had some luck reducing noise with a little extra effort. I put 26-gauge panels on my garage (not a huge price jump over 29, at least in my area) and used a layer of recycled denim insulation right under the metal. The difference compared to my neighbor’s shed (same size, thinner panels, no insulation) is pretty noticeable during hail or heavy rain—his place sounds like a drum line, mine’s more like distant popcorn.
I know not everyone wants to pay for extra insulation or thicker panels, but if you’re already budgeting for a roof replacement, it might be worth considering. Maybe it’s not all about washers, but the combo of panel thickness and a decent underlayment can take the edge off, at least in my experience. Still, metal will never be as quiet as asphalt, but it doesn’t have to be unbearable either.
- Thicker panels definitely help, but I’d add: green roofs (even a shallow sedum layer) can muffle rain and hail noise a lot.
- Not always practical for garages, but for new builds or sheds with enough support, it’s an option.
- Bonus: insulation value goes up, runoff slows down, and you get a bit of habitat on top.
- Downside is the upfront work/cost, but if you’re already re-roofing... might be worth a look.
