Why You Want a Metal Roof In the Winter - Metal Roof Pros (2024)

by Helpgeek | Mar 10, 2021 | Blog | 0 comments

You’ve likely heard that metal roofs are great for keeping your house cool in the summer and cutting back on those extreme summer energy bills. But did you know that metal roofs can also help keep you cozy and warm during the winter months?

Metal Roofs Keep Your Home Warm in The Cold Weather

Did you know that residential homes use more energy every year to heat their homes in winter than to cool them in summer? Our customers are constantly asking us if metal roofs will add to the winter chill – and their heating bills. Fortunately, nothing could be further from the truth.

Why You Want a Metal Roof In the Winter - Metal Roof Pros (1)

According to a study completed by the US Department of Energy, the surface of your metal roof will stay within five degrees of the average asphalt shingle roof, even during the coldest weather. Most metal roofs will be a few degrees warmer than their competition during the daytime and a few degrees colder at night. However, this surface temperature does not negatively affect your home’s internal temperature. In fact, when the air space below the roof is measured, metal roofs keep the air warmer by an average of fifteen degrees compared to traditional shingle roofs.

Metal Roofs Save You Money on Energy Bills

Fifteen degrees is a huge difference in temperature and can make an equally huge difference in your energy bills when your heater is not struggling to make up the difference. But how is this possible?!

The long answer is very boring and hard to understand so here’s the short version – remember how we mentioned that metal roofs were on average about five degrees warmer during the day? Because it takes so long for the metal to heat up and cool down, it’s basically storing the heat and then releasing it through the night, effectively insulating and radiating heat all at once.

You can enhance this effect by choosing the right underlayment and insulation, so talk to your roofer about your options and research carefully if your main goal is to preserve energy and, therefore, your pocketbook.

So if your main qualm about choosing a metal roof for your home is whether you’ll be comfortable in the cooler months – fear not! Metal roofs are actually the best choice you can make to keep your home insulated and safe through the winter.

Metal Roofs Are Durable

The holiday season is merry, bright, and beautiful – but it also brings with it the dangers of snow, ice, severe winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations. This can lead to hail, falling branches laden with ice, snow dams building up, and sudden expansion or contraction caused by the temperature dropping or rising unexpectedly. When these calamities befall your home, you want a metal roof there to protect you from the worst of the damage.

Why You Want a Metal Roof In the Winter - Metal Roof Pros (2)

Metal does not expand or contract, most styles do not have shingles that can get knocked loose by falling projectiles, and they are basically impact-resistant which saves you beau coups of money in repairs.

Metal Roofs Shed Snow

In Arkansas, the weather varies from year to year, but we usually see at least one snowfall each winter. And when it snows, snow and ice can pile up on your roof and weigh it down. Shingle roofs can cave under the pressure, but metal roofs just let it slide right off the moment the temperature rises above freezing.

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Why You Want a Metal Roof In the Winter - Metal Roof Pros (2024)

FAQs

Why You Want a Metal Roof In the Winter - Metal Roof Pros? ›

Moreover, metal roofs are highly resistant to damage caused by temperature fluctuations. They can endure the contraction and expansion cycles induced by freezing and thawing. Additionally, they are less susceptible to issues like rotting or mold growth, which can be a problem in damp, cold environments.

What is the main advantage of a metal roof in cold climates? ›

One of the standout advantages of metal roofing in cold climates is its exceptional ability to keep you warm and toasty inside, leaving the cold where it should be: outside. Metal roofs excel in retaining heat due to their low thermal conductivity. This means they conduct less heat than traditional asphalt shingles.

Are metal roofs energy efficient in winter? ›

Contrary to popular myth, metal roofs can actually save you money on your energy bills rather than costing you more. This is because metal takes longer to heat up and cool down. Thus, your metal roofs essentially store heat and then release it slowly.

Do metal roofs help with snow? ›

The protection from snow is one of the best benefits of metal roofing. As snow sits, moisture collects, and some roofs don't handle it well, but metal roofs do. Moreover, hail, wind, snow, and sun all contribute to asphalt roofs breaking down, although they won't affect metal roofs.

What are the benefits of a metal roof? ›

The Advantages of a Metal Roof

Metal roofing is tough, which also means it is low-maintenance. It is unphased by the elements including; strong winds, intense heat, rain, snow, and rot. Its smooth surface also provides for maximum rain and snow shedding, protecting the structure from snow and rain damage.

Why do people want metal roofs? ›

Metal roofs are increasingly popular due to their long life spans and durability when compared to shingles. Metal roofs also come in a variety of shapes and colors and don't require much upkeep once installed. They're a low-maintenance alternative to an asphalt shingle roof.

What temperature is too cold for a metal roof? ›

Unlike most asphalt roofing, metal and polymer roofs can be installed in temperatures below 40° without compromising quality or voiding manufacturer warranties. On the other hand, asphalt roofs (with the exception of certain TAMKO products), should be installed in warmer temperatures above 40° whenever possible.

Do metal roofs lower the electric bill? ›

Investing in a metal roof means decades of lower utility bills, increased energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance. If you are seeking the perfect way to increase your home's energy efficiency while saving dollars and the planet, metal roofing might just be the choice for you.

Should I put snow guards on my metal roof? ›

Any area, such as snow country, that receives heavy snowfall should definitely have snow guards installed on a metal roof. If your area doesn't necessarily receive heavy snow but does get some snowfall throughout the year, a snow retention system is still something you should consider.

Can you install a metal roof in the winter? ›

Metal roofing can be installed during winter – The main advantage metal roofing has when it comes to winterizing your home is that, barring a snowstorm, metal roofs can be installed in the middle of winter. They do not become brittle under extreme cold, unlike other roofing materials.

Do you get ice dams with metal roofs? ›

A Metal Roof Is Not 100% Ice-Dam Proof

Another piece of truth you should also know is that theoretically, it's still very possible for metal roofs to get ice dams. As the snow melts into water, it can still freeze on the cold edges of the sheets, creating an ice buildup.

What is the downside to a metal roof? ›

Metal roofs are long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and more durable than your standard asphalt roof. However, they are slippery, can be difficult to install properly, and may be noisy during a thunderstorm or windy weather.

Does a metal roof increase home value? ›

Metal roofs are often touted as a good way to boost home value, but research indicates they are not as cost-effective as laminate shingles. The Remodeling Report for 2019 found that a metal roof, on average, cost homeowners $38,600 and increased home value by 60.9 percent.

What is the life expectancy of a metal roof? ›

Life Span of a Metal Roof

Metal roofs are highly durable, lasting as long as 100 years when carefully maintained. They'll last between 40 and 70 years for the average homeowner versus between 15 and 30 years for roofs with asphalt shingles or wood shingles.

What is the best roof material for cold climates? ›

A slate roof will keep your home warm and ensures they are virtually indestructible from strong winds. During installation, these types of roofs can also be insulated, making them a great choice for cold weather climates. With extra insulation, you can expect a slate tile roof to last for up to 100 years.

Do metal roofs hold up better than shingles? ›

A metal roof can last up to 80 years, while a shingle roof typically lasts 20 to 30 years. A metal roof typically outperforms a shingle roof because of the following factors: Durable, even in extreme weather conditions such as high winds and hail storms.

Why is metal roofing good for the environment? ›

Not only are most steel roofs made from recycled content, they're also recyclable again at the end of their lifespan. This reduces the need to plumb resources in order to make new materials and decreases the amount of waste going into landfills as a product of home building.

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