When it comes to building a home that will stand the test of time in cold climates, choosing the right roofing materials can make all the difference in ensuring your family stays warm, dry, and protected from the harsh elements.
If you live in a cold climate, you need to choose roofing materials that can withstand snow, ice, and freezing temperatures while providing energy efficiency and durability. In this blog post, we’ll explore the effects of cold weather on roofs, suitable options for roofing materials, and some tips to help protect your roof during the winter.
If you live in a warmer area, check out our last blog post, The Best Roofing Materials for Hot Climates.
How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Roof?
From wind and hail to snow and ice, wintry conditions can take its toll on your roof. Understanding the effects of cold weather on your roof can help you make informed decisions about which roofing materials would be best for your home.
High winds (45 mph and above) can wreak havoc on your roof, loosening or breaking off shingles. If the flashing is unsecured, it can get caught in the wind and tear off. Hail is also notorious for damaging roofs, denting metal elements.
Water can damage your roof in any weather, but especially when it’s below freezing. When water freezes, it expands, and if any water has infiltrated your roof, the cold temperatures can cause cracks and damage. This is a particularly significant problem when the temperatures are constantly rising and falling, causing what’s known as a freeze-thaw cycle.
That’s not the only problem snow can cause. Snow is surprisingly heavy, weighing up to 20 pounds per cubic foot. As snow accumulates, it can put excessive strain on your roof and create hazardous ice dams.
Roofing Materials for Cold Climates
Let’s take a look at some of the best roofing materials for cold climates:
Asphalt Shingles
Thanks to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation, asphalt shingles are a popular choice for homeowners all over the world, and cold climates are no exception. Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand freezing temperatures, have excellent insulative properties, and are strong enough to handle the weight of heavy snow.
Additionally, quality asphalt shingles come with a Class A fire rating, which means they won’t catch on fire if your holiday lighting display goes awry or your winter bonfire gets out of control.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is another ideal choice for homes in cold climates. Metal is extremely durable and can easily shed snow and ice, preventing accumulation that can lead to damage. With proper maintenance, metal roofs can last 50 years or more. Plus, they are also fire-resistant and energy-efficient.
DECRA Metal Roofing: The Best of Both Worlds
Do you want the incredible durability of a metal roof but the classic, dimensional appearance of asphalt shingles? If so, consider innovative DECRA metal roofing. Engineered for endurance, DECRA metal shingles will protect your home year-round, no matter what type of climate you live in.
Another advantage of DECRA metal roofing is that it’s a fraction of the weight of other options, so when the snow comes down in droves, your roof will experience less stress. It has proven to withstand 120 mph winds and heavy hail, so you can rest assured that your home will be safe and secure all winter long.
DECRA metal roofing is a particularly good choice for Northern Utah homeowners. With our sweltering summers and frigid winters, your roof needs to be able to stand up to a wide range of weather conditions. DECRA metal shingles perform well in both the heat and cold, giving you incredible protection no matter the season.
Protect Your Roof During the Winter
In addition to choosing the right roofing materials and being proactive about maintenance, you should plan on inspecting your roof periodically throughout the winter to ensure your gutters are not blocked.
Additionally, if there’s a particularly heavy snowstorm, you may want to remove some of the snow from your roof. Use a snow shovel with an extendable handle, making sure the shovel doesn’t make contact with the roof. Instead, gently pull the shovel toward you to remove the top layer of snow.
Roofing for Cold Climates at Kanga Roof
Now is the time to ensure your home will be protected throughout the upcoming winter. At Kanga Roof, we specialize in providing roofing solutions for both hot and cold climates. Contact us today to learn more!
Follow Us