If your winter season is quite long and snow accumulates heavily, your roof is not only a design element but a very important part of the building. Heavy snow, ice dams that cause leaks, and the energy loss due to the wrong type of roofing material, leading to costly repairs can all be problems that arise from the wrong type of roofing material. On the other hand, the right shingle will make your roof a strong and lasting protector of the building against the weather.
This guide will help you choose the best shingle materials for cold areas with heavy snowfall, so your investment will be a confident one.
Consider The Key Differences Between Snow & Ice Roofs
There are many issues unique to snow and ice. When selecting roofing material, it’s important to know how much ‘snow weight’ plays into how much a roof has to support. Average weights of dry snow (per cubic foot) equals about 7 pounds; however, very wet/heavy snow could weigh over 20+lbs. This means that your roofing system, along with how it’s constructed, will have to deal with this heavier snow load.
Ice Dams – When your home’s attic heat melts the lower layer(s) of snow on top of your roofing system, ice forms on the cold edges of the roof. The water backed up under the shingled portion(s) of the roofing system, which further develops due to ice dams.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle − The fluctuation of temperatures from day to night brings constant motion to roofing materials because of expansion and contraction. As such, roofing can be subjected to stress from the freeze-thaw cycle and must be capable of withstanding this stress.
Moisture & Algae: When excessive moisture builds up in a damp area, a problem arises concerning possible moss and algae accumulation on some roofing materials.
Comparing Roofing Materials in a Winter Environment
We will rate each substance on four important parameters: Durability & Strength, Ice & Water Resistant Properties, Ability to Shed Snow, and
Cost.
1. Architectural Asphalt Shingles:
The most common form of upgrading is from standard 3-tab shingles.
Benefits: Great value; they provide a dimensional profile and greater durability and weight than 3-tab shingles, and most are compatible with ice-and-water barrier underlayment material, and some have algae-resistant coatings. Provide good wind resistance.
Drawbacks: Continue to lose granules due to freeze/thaw cycles over time. Only moderate snow-shedding capability.
Snow-Climate Rating: B+
2. Standing seam metal roof or metal shingles:
The snow-shedder king of all roofing systems in snowy climates.
Pros: Exceptional snow shedding capability due to their hard smooth surface and the fact that they allow the snow to easily slide off (when using the proper snow guard). The metal in these roofs is durable, fireproof, and resistant to freeze-thaw type damage. When used with a complete ice and water shield membrane underneath the roof, a standing seam roof is extremely leak-proof.
Cons: The initial investment cost is higher. In situations like heavy rain or hail, metal roofing can produce a lot of noise if the attic insulation is not adequate. Proper sealing of the seams on the roof will require the installation of a professional standing seam roof.
Best Suited For: People who value longevity (40 to 70 years or more) and snow performance (sliding snow) together with a modern style. Steep pitch roof configurations are the best match for them.
Snow Climate Rating: A.
3. Synthetic composite shingles, typically composed of a variety of engineered polymers, resins, and recycled materials.
Benefits: These shingles are designed to resemble wood shakes or slate and offer the extreme durability of synthetic materials. Extremely resistant to impacts, synthetic composite shingles resist moisture absorption and usually carry an extremely long warranty (50 years or more). Additionally, they shed snow very effectively and are impervious to moisture damage, such as rot or cracks.
Drawbacks: As with premium-grade metal roofing products, synthetic composite shingles are considerably more expensive than other roofing materials and vary widely in quality due to differing brand reputations in the market.
Ideal for: Homeowners seeking a particular aesthetic (e.g., Slate and cedar) with the long-term performance benefits of engineered synthetic roofing products (minimal maintenance and low weights), and are willing to pay for that performance.
Snow Climate Rating: A-.
4. Slate Roofs:
The option is natural stone, and this highlighted option can be represented as (Natural stone), also known as “Slate”.
Pros: Unparalleled natural beauty with the added advantage of an extremely long life span (75-150+ years). When installed appropriately, slate shingles are entirely waterproof, fireproof, and will withstand the effects of freeze/thaw cycles. Because they are made from very dense material, slate will help strengthen your home.
Cons: Slate shingles are among the most expensive roofing material and the installation requires skilled contractors (the contractor may charge a premium for installation). The weight of each slate shingle will require a reinforced roof system in order to support this material. Additionally, slate will break if walked upon (for maintenance).
Best suited for: Blue-printed homes, luxury construction, and anywhere long-term durability and timeless beauty are the main requirements.
Snow climate grade “A” (performance), but the cost of installation and structural requirements must be weighed against performance.
5. Wood Shake (Cedar):
This material is not only very nice to look at but also a classic choice. However, if it is used in places that receive a lot of snow, then special precautions have to be taken.
Advantages: Wood shakes provide natural insulation, have a rustic appearance, and the good shedding of snow when applied in dry conditions.
Disadvantages: Porous and absorbent cedar timber is the major drawback. In such places and conditions, it will not only rot but also become a home where fungi and moss can thrive. To keep up their attractiveness and strength, constant cleaning and maintenance are required. Water absorption is a major drawback that makes it difficult to locate them where there are ice dams. There can be some fire regulations concerning the use of wood shakes, depending on the area.
Ideal for: Dwellings in regions with normal snow or residents who are willing to spend time and effort on maintenance to have the classic look.
Snow Climate Rating: C
The Unsung Hero: Proper Installation & Underlayment:
Proper installation and underlayment are the unsung heroes in snowy regions.
Ice and Water Barrier:
This is mandatory, and it is not a choice. A self-adhering rubberized membrane must be applied at all eaves, valleys, and where all penetrations are located (at chimneys and vents) to keep water from being able to backup from ice dams.
High-Quality Underlayment
High-quality underlayment with waterproof synthetic materials may be placed over the entire roof deck surface.
Ventilation:
A cold roof is a safe roof. A good ventilation system for your soffit, ridge, and gable will make sure your attic is approximately at the same temperature as your outdoor environment, thus not allowing snow to melt in order to form ice dams.
Expert Installation:
Engage a contractor with in-depth knowledge concerning cold climate detailing, such as closing, flashing, and creating a watertight detailing transition.
Conclusion:
The selection of an appropriate roof for regions with heavy snow is a decision that predominantly combines practicality and investment. While materials used have the most impact—metal, composite and premium asphalt being the top options—it is just the beginning of the story. The full defense against the winter’s wrath is comprised of a total system: high-quality underlayment, a fully ventilated structure in the skillful hands of a professional contractor, and durable shingles on top.
Instead of just looking at the initial cost, think about the value in the long run of a roof that not just passively but actually protects your home throughout its lifetime. The right pick will not only survive the storms for decades, but will also bring countless moments of reassurance every time the first snowflake drops. Be careful in your choice of overhead protection; your home will be strong and warm throughout the coming winters.
