Built for every storm

By DECRA Metal Roofing.  

Homeowners in cold regions are turning to metal roofing for high-performance protection against harsh winter conditions. 

Across the United States, winter weather has become more unpredictable and intense. Homeowners in cold climates are facing longer seasons of snow, ice and freezing rain, often arriving earlier and lasting well into spring. These changing patterns are testing the limits of traditional roofing materials, making it more important than ever to invest in a system designed for year-round protection. 

A metal roof is one of the best defenses against winter’s harshest conditions. Known for their strength and efficiency, DECRA Metal Roofing materials combine durability with cutting-edge performance to safeguard homes through snowstorms, high winds and temperature swings. Whether you’re replacing an aging roof or building new, choosing the right roofing material can mean the difference between seasonal repairs and lasting peace of mind. 

In this article, you’ll learn why metal roofing is a trusted choice for cold-weather regions. We’ll cover the key features that make it ideal for winter climates, additional benefits homeowners appreciate and answers to the most common questions about how metal roofs perform in snow, ice and extreme weather. 

How metal roofing protects homes from snow, rain and ice 

Winter weather brings a mix of precipitation, freezing temperatures and high winds. Let’s explore how stone-coated metal roofing offers protection against these elements.  

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures 

Metal roofing is a great choice for areas with heavy snowfall because it’s lightweight. Unlike heavier roofing materials like clay tiles and asphalt shingles, it can handle the added weight without sagging. Additionally, its nonporous surface helps regulate roof temperature, preventing the snow from melting and refreezing — a common issue with other roofing materials. 

This melt-freeze cycle often leads to ice dams. Ice dams form when melting snow flows toward the roof’s edge and refreezes near the roofline, creating a barrier of ice around gutters and eaves. This barrier blocks additional snowmelt from draining properly, forcing water to seep into the fascia or even the home’s interior, causing costly damage. 
 
DECRA metal roofing offers an added layer of protection against ice dams. Its unique design features an insulating air space between the roofing panel and the underlying deck, which helps maintain consistent temperatures, prevent leaks and reduce the risk of ice dams forming. 

High winds 

Colder climates experience strong winds, especially during the winter months. These winds can be driven by factors such as:  

• Temperature differences: Cold air is heavier than warm air, leading to the development of wind as air moves from areas of high pressure (cold regions) to areas of low pressure (warmer regions). 
• Weather systems: Winter storms, including blizzards and nor'easters, can bring both heavy snow and strong winds, with gusts sometimes reaching hurricane-force levels. 
• Geography: Certain colder regions, such as mountainous areas, may experience intensified winds due to the local terrain.  

Homeowners are pleased to know DECRA roofs are backed by a warranty that covers wind speeds up to 120 miles per hour.  

Hail and wind-driven rain 

Winter storms can also bring rain and hail. DECRA has the highest possible rating for hail impact resistance, with a warranty covering hail up to 2.5 inches in diameter. Additionally, when rain is driven by strong winds, it can seep into even the smallest gaps in your roof. DECRA’s unique interlocking design helps seal out this risk, providing an extra layer of protection for your home. 

Other benefits of metal roofing 

There are several other reasons why homeowners choose metal roofing. Here are five that are worth considering.  

Long lifespan 

Metal roofs have a lifespan that is two to three times longer than roofs made of traditional materials, like asphalt shingles. This means you don’t have to replace your roof every 15 or 20 years.  

Fire resistance  

DECRA holds the highest possible Class A fire rating. With wildfires becoming a growing concern on both coasts, this provides homeowners with added peace of mind. 

Energy efficiency 

The same energy efficiency that helps homeowners conserve heat in winter makes it helpful in the summer. A modern metal roof reflects heat up and away from buildings, saving homeowners around 40% on energy costs. 

Low maintenance 

Metal roofs require less maintenance than wood shakes and clay tiles because they aren't as prone to common roofing issues such as: 

• Cracking 
• Splitting 
• Cupping 
• Warping 
• Oxidation 
• Rust 
• Mold growth 

If you're tired of the constant upkeep of traditional roofing materials, you'll appreciate the low-maintenance benefits of a metal roof. 

Insurance discounts  

Because of all the benefits listed above, insurance companies tend to prefer metal roofs on the properties they cover. It’s worth asking your carrier if they offer a discount for having one. Additionally, many insurance companies are now using drones to assess roof conditions and may drop coverage for properties with problematic roofs (those likely to file a claim). A metal roof reduces the likelihood of losing your insurance protection. 

3 common questions about metal roofing  

We hear many of the same questions about metal roofing, especially when it comes to winter weather. Here are the top three. 

1 - Do I need snow guards with a DECRA Metal Roof?  

No! Snow guards are barriers that prevent snow and ice from sliding off the roof and damaging property or people below. Many homeowners with DECRA metal roofing don’t need snow guards because the roof maintains a stable temperature that prevents excessive melting. However, in some cases, especially homes with steep roofs, snow may slide off more easily. If you're concerned, you may choose to add snow guards for peace of mind, but they’re not required. 

2 - Can a metal roof be installed during winter, or do we need to wait until spring?  

Yes! One of the great advantages of DECRA metal roofing is that it can be installed in winter. Unlike some traditional materials — like asphalt shingles, which can crack or split at temperatures below 45 degrees — metal roofing is able to withstand very low temperatures. As long as your contractor says it's safe to work, a metal roof can be installed during any month of the year. 

3 - Will a metal roof fit my home's unique style? 

Yes! DECRA Metal Roofing is available in shingle, tile and shake profiles, with colors that complement any home style. Whether you have a colonial residence, a mission-style abode or a contemporary home, you’ll be sure to find a profile and color that suits your home’s style.  

Visualize DECRA metal roofing on your home 

As the original manufacturer of stone-coated metal roofing products, DECRA has set the industry standard for durable roofing since 1957. Engineered to withstand extreme conditions, DECRA offers protection against snow, ice and freezing temperatures. To see how DECRA would look on your home, we encourage you to try our free visualization tool. 

Original article and photo source: DECRA Metal Roofing