Review: Metal Roofing in Snowy Regions

Winter can be a metal roofer’s best friend, especially in a snowy region.

Not because it’s a great time of year for installation since everything grinds to a halt once a snowstorm hits. However, if you’re in a region that gets heavy snowfall, nothing says durability and low maintenance better than a standing seam metal roof.

At New Tech Machinery (NTM), we work with metal roof contractors whose businesses rely on our portable metal panel rollforming machines. Contractors know the benefits of standing seam, but that’s not always the case with homeowners. In fact, many are surprised to learn that standing seam metal roofs deliver unique benefits when it comes to handling snow and ice.

Contractors often play the role of salespeople, especially when competing against cheaper roofing options. This involves overcoming homeowners’ objections, which often stem from a lack of knowledge about standing seam metal roofing.

In this article, we’ll look at some objections you might encounter when selling metal roofing in areas that receive heavy snowfall, and we’ll provide some counterpoints that you can relay to your customers. After all, selling is about providing information that works in your customer’s best interests. Unless you educate them, however, they may not see all the advantages of standing seam metal.

Snow Shedding and Retention

Customer objection: Clearing snow off a metal roof would be difficult. Also, ice slabs could form and injure someone when they slide off.

Contractor response: One of the most significant advantages of metal roofs is their ability to shed snow and ice. With a proper system, you won’t need to deal with snow removal.

According to S-5!, a recognized leader in snow retention solutions, “Snow retention systems increase the friction between the roof and the snow to retain it in place and allow it to evacuate in a controlled manner (thaw and sublimation). In addition, snow guards – also known as metal roof ice stops – help keep large amounts of ice from sliding off a metal roof all at once.”

The smooth, slippery surface of metal prevents snow from accumulating. Instead, snow slides off the roof in increments, reducing the risk of heavy snow loads that can cause damage. This natural shedding minimizes the formation of snow and ice dams, which can lead to leaks and water damage inside the home or building.

Metal roofs are compatible with snow guards and roof heating systems, which manage snow and ice in snowy regions. Snow guards prevent large amounts of snow or ice from sliding off at once, protecting areas below from damage. Roof heating systems can be easily installed on metal roofs to melt snow and ice, further preventing accumulation. Also, snow bars, like those manufactured by S-5!, can be matched to the roof’s color to blend in. Snow guards can be strategically placed to protect pedestrians and property, redirecting snow loads and ice to safe zones.

Contractor note: Choosing the right underlayment is crucial to installing a metal roofing system that is compatible with cold temperatures. It should be designed for the roof’s slope and include a cold-temperature rating suitable to the climate. Also, check the length of the warranty to make sure it’s sufficient.

“We usually recommend an ice and water shield,” says Jeff Hock, the technical director at Sheffield Metals. “But you can do a synthetic which is a mechanically attached underlayment, and then use ice and water shield. This is what we call a picture framing where you put ice and water shield at your valleys, ridges, side walls, and eaves.”

Synthetic underlayment over the main areas of the roof provides a solid combination for both high and low slopes. High-temperature underlayment is often recommended, as metal roofing can get hot, particularly when snow clears and summer returns.

In cold climates, installation temperature is also essential. Some peel-and-stick underlayments have a minimum temperature requirement, typically around 40°F, to ensure proper adhesion, often needing a primer if the temperature drops.

Fully adhered underlayments are preferred in snow-prone areas to minimize leaks caused by ice dams, as they offer a complete seal without the need for additional fasteners. For long-lasting protection, contractors often choose underlayments with a UV exposure rating matching the project timeline to ensure durability before the final roof layer is installed.

Slope also plays a role. A steeper-slope roof is more adaptable to synthetic than a low-slope roof.

Always follow the instructions of the underlayment manufacturer for installation. Also, check to see if you need any approvals in your area. Some restrictions may apply, depending on location.

Coil suppliers like Sheffield Metals International offer weathertight warranties. Check their site for more information.

Hail Damage

Customer objection: I’m concerned about hail damage. I’ve seen what it does to cars, and it can be pretty bad.

Contractor response: There’s no getting around the fact that hail can damage any type of roof. That said, metal roofs offer unparalleled durability. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, high winds, and freezing temperatures. Unlike traditional roofing materials that can crack or deteriorate, metal roofs resist damage from the freeze-thaw cycle common in snowy climates.

Although metal roofs may receive some dings and dimples, you won’t have to worry about hail damage, either, whereas severe hailstorms can crack or break any type of shingles, requiring costly roof repair.

According to Sheffield Metals, New Tech Machinery’s sister company, the metal’s thickness helps determine the severity of damage to a metal roof when hit by a hailstorm.

Sheffield reports, “The higher the gauge, the thinner the steel metal substrate, so a 29-gauge roofing system will be more susceptible to damage than a 22- or 24-gauge metal roof. On the other hand, aluminum coil is sold according to the decimal of thickness, and the higher the decimal the thicker the substrate. For example, a .032 aluminum roof is more prone to hail damage than a .040 roof.”

The size of the hail, pitch of the roof, metal type and thickness, and paint system (matte shows fewer dents and marks than a glossy finish) also contribute to the amount of hail damage on a metal roof.

It’s also worth noting that hailstones are generally not large enough to damage a metal roof in most regions.

Minimal Maintenance

Customer objection: I’ve never had a metal roof before, so I don’t know anything about maintenance. Plus, I’m away for parts of the winter, so I may not be around when it snows.

Contractor response: In snowy regions, roofs often require regular maintenance to handle issues like snow removal, shingle replacement, and leak repairs. However, metal roofs shed snow and ice and are generally maintenance-free.

This is a real benefit for second homes that may sit unoccupied for months. However, even for the year-round homeowner, a standing seam roof is worry-free.

Additionally, their resistance to weather-related damage means homeowners spend less time and money on upkeep. The reduced likelihood of leaks and structural issues translates to lower long-term maintenance costs.

Energy Efficiency

Customer objection: The shingle roof I have now is insulated, so I don’t have to deal with losing a lot of heat in my home.

Contractor response: A U.S. Department of Energy study found that metal roof surfaces stay within five degrees of asphalt shingle roofs, even in the coldest weather. While metal roofs may be a bit warmer during the day and slightly cooler at night, this doesn’t impact your home’s internal temperature. In fact, metal roofs keep the air space below them about fifteen degrees warmer on average than traditional shingles.

Jeremy Newkirk, owner of the Tulsa roofing company Roof Leaks & Moore, reports in his blog, “The insulation properties of a metal roof can significantly improve energy efficiency in cold climates. Metal roofs have excellent thermal performance, meaning they can effectively regulate the temperature inside the building, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. This can result in significant energy savings for homeowners and businesses alike.”

Weight of Metal

Customer objection: Metal is heavy and could damage the walls and siding of my home.

Contractor response: Despite their strength and durability, metal roofs are lightweight compared to other materials.

Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford® reports that “Metal roofing is significantly lighter than asphalt shingles. In fact, metal is the lightest of the available roofing materials, which means virtually all structures will be eligible for and able to support a metal roof.”

A lightweight metal roof places less stress on the building’s structure, which benefits areas where roofs must support heavy snow loads. It can also simplify the installation process and potentially lower construction costs.

Fire Resistance

Customer objection: A metal roof might be great in the winter, but we also live in a wildfire area, and I imagine it gets very hot and could worsen fire damage.

Contractor response: While no type of roof is completely fireproof, metal roofing carries a class-A fire rating, the highest designation by industry standards. This is why FEMA recommends it in fire-prone areas. Metal deflects heat and prevents the spread of flames. Also, standing seam roofs, because they lock together at the seams, are more protective against fire than exposed fastener metal roofs.

Contractor note: Metal roofing doesn’t need testing as it already carries a class-A rating. However, because metal transfers heat, the framing or deck that is part of the roofing system must also be non-combustible. If the metal roof is installed over a combustible deck, the metal needs to be tested using ASTM E108 or UL 790. This rule does not apply to 16 oz/ sq. ft. or thicker copper, which can still be considered class A without testing, even when installed over combustible decks.

While class-A designation isn’t always included in building codes, it may be required in some areas, like those designated as wildfire zones.
Speak with your metal manufacturer for information on your specific project.

Eco-Friendliness

Customer objection: I’m looking for an environmentally friendly material, like wood shingles. Metal would only increase my carbon footprint.

Contractor response: Metal roofs come with a variety of environmental benefits. Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials and are themselves fully recyclable. This sustainability makes metal roofing ideal for customers concerned about their carbon footprint.

Also, metal panels are fabricated from at least 25% recycled material and remain 100% recyclable, even decades later. Metal can be recycled repeatedly, so its use never ends.

Moreover, metal is cleaner and produces less waste, especially with a portable rollformer that runs panels on-site. While shingles must be cut, leaving the shavings to pile up, metal is fabricated according to custom measurements, reducing the waste produced.

Lastly, combined with other environmentally friendly construction components, homeowners who invest in metal roofs may be eligible for LEED credits.

Aesthetic Appeal

Customer objection: I’ve seen some old buildings with metal roofs, and I don’t like the way they look.

Contractor response: Modern metal roofs come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes. Homeowners can choose colors that match their home’s aesthetic and even customize the look with a unique design or style, all while retaining the benefits of metal.

According to MBCI®’s blog article The Aesthetic Appeal of Metal Roofing, “Metal roofs have evolved beyond their once-limited appearance, now offering a wide range of stylish options. Today, metal roofing can complement virtually any building style, from rustic farmhouses to ultra-modern homes.”

Increased Property Value

Customer objection: It’s great that a metal roof can last longer than 50 years, but I don’t plan to own this house that long.

Contractor response: Investing in a metal roof can increase the resale value of a home, especially in an area prone to heavy snowfall or wildfires. The long-term warranty on metal roofing, reduced maintenance needs, and lower cost of insurance can appeal to potential homebuyers.

Roofer Digest reports that metal roofing can significantly influence buyers’ decisions due to its durability, aesthetics, energy efficiency, and insurance advantages.

Is It a No-Brainer?

Many consumers are just discovering the benefits of metal roofing and siding.

That said, average homeowners have limited budgets, and metal roofs may be beyond their means. However, financing a new roof will likely save them money in the long run in maintenance, repair, and, eventually, roof replacement costs. Plus, standing seam metal’s resiliency to storms, extreme weather, and fire-resistant aspects can reduce the amount of money spent on insuring their homes.

New Tech Machinery stands alone as the industry leader in portable metal roof and wall panel rollforming machines. For information about our machines, contact us and speak to one of our knowledgeable account managers.

Also, be sure to visit the NTM Learning Center for more informative videos and articles.