Picking a roofing material can be a tough decision, but it’s even tougher when you have to deal with difficult weather. Whether you have to deal with lots of natural disasters or live somewhere where heavy snowfalls and storms are common, there are a few extra things you have to consider. There are also options that you should completely scratch off your list. If you were looking to replace your roof before winter is there, here are a few tips for finding the best one for you.
Consider Your Exact Type of Weather
You first have to consider which type of weather you have to deal with. Some areas will have high winds and piercing cold. This will require a different kind of roof than an area with slightly milder weather.
These areas might not have to deal with the wind, but slushy wet snow can become a problem. In this case, you have to go with something like a pitched roof that will allow the sludge and wet snow to slip right off and limit water penetration. But if you’re somewhere where the weather is more extreme, you have to concentrate on things like resistance to ice damage and heavy winds.
Look at the Different Materials
In most cases, you can’t go wrong with a metal roof if you’re experiencing all 4 seasons. Metal is good against ice and snow accumulation and doesn’t allow moisture to seep in. It can also handle pretty much anything you throw at it, whether it’s snow, wind, or hail.
Slate is another good option for cold climates. It’s resistant, can resist heavy snow and winds, and also looks good on a sloped roof. Slate isn’t as tough as metal when it comes to protection, however, but is still a good option.
Asphalt is another common choice. While not as durable as the previous two options, it offers a happy compromise and is the most affordable option of the three. However, if you want the best results, you want to go with fiberglass asphalt shingles and make sure that you pick the architectural kind.
Go with the Right Team
At the end of the day, you can take all your time to evaluate your climate and the options available, but the team you eventually decide to go with will ultimately make the difference. If you live in St Louis, for instance, go with a reputable St Louis roofing contractor such as Wildwood that have been in operation for many years. Not only will they be well familiar with your climate, but you’ll know that they’re not likely to go anywhere anytime soon. This will be essential if you ever need some follow up work or need them to honor a warranty.
If you still weren’t sure about which roof would be better for your needs, we hope we’re able to demystify choices for you. All you now need is the right team by your side to help you with your decision and guide you through the process.
