Best Roofing Material for Cold Climates

Whether you’re building your home from scratch or remodeling, choosing appropriate roofing for your climate is crucial.  

Suitable roofing material will make all the difference in your heating bills, the protection of your home, and overall comfort level. Therefore, if you live in a warm climate, you want shingles that keep your home cool; if you live in a state such as Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, or Vermont, you need a roof built for cold climates. States such as these are known for their winter storms, heavy snowfall, and temperatures that drop below 0 degrees. 

With winter just around the corner, let's consider the best cold climate roofs and the benefits they provide.  

What Do Cold Climate Roofs Do? 

Roofs designed for cold climates are durable and can easily endure extreme weather. These roofs allow snow and ice to slide or melt off without causing heavy damage. Moreover, they insulate the home, adding warmth and reducing heating bills.  

Let’s consider two common roofing materials, metal roofing and asphalt shingles, and how they perform in cold climates.  

Metal Roofs vs. Shingles in Cold Climates  

While deciding between shingles and metal roofing, there are many factors to consider, such as budget and availability. While both have their benefits, there are some key things you should know.  

Asphalt shingles are arguably the most common type of residential roofing material. They have many benefits, including their cost efficiency, longevity, and low maintenance. Modified asphalt shingles can provide extra protection against high winds and hailstorms.  

Metal is known for its excellent insulation capabilities. Additionally, it is highly durable and less prone to ice damage. When snow lands on a metal roof, it melts, does not gather, and glides off with no ice jams or gutter damage. Unlike shingle roofs, metal roofs are considerably waterproof, meaning no amount of rain or snow will leak through.  

Metal is a substantial barrier that prevents hot and cold air from escaping. While a metal roof remains warmer than the surrounding air, an asphalt shingle roof will likely stay a few degrees cooler. As a result, homeowners with metal roofs will likely find their energy costs substantially lower than those with asphalt-shingled rooftops.  

CertainTeed Roof Professionals  

If you would like to know more about the best roof material for your climate or have additional questions regarding metal roofs and asphalt shingles, contact a CertainTeed professional. We understand the importance of a sound roof that meets your budget. We guarantee a roof that delivers protection from outside elements, pest infestations, structural damage, and water leaks. 

When you call us, we will take your concerns very seriously and promise to get the job done right. We promise to give you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected, and that your roof conserves energy so your utilities won’t be unnecessarily high.  

Contact us today to request service in your area and we will dispatch a technician to evaluate your roof as soon as possible. Our hardworking technicians will be happy to answer any questions you may have.