Are Metal Roofs Good for Snow and Ice?
When you live in a place like Wisconsin, snow and ice aren’t just a seasonal annoyance—they’re a serious concern for your home’s roof. Homeowners often ask: Are metal roofs good for snow and ice?
The answer is a resounding yes—but with a few important considerations.
Rescue My Roof has been a leading roofing contractor in southeastern Wisconsin for over a decade. We’ve endured many nasty Wisconsin winters – so we know a thing or two when it comes to protecting your home from snow and ice.
In this article, we’ll break down how metal roofing performs in snowy climates, the benefits it offers, and what to watch out for. Ultimately, you’ll know if a metal roof is right for you.
Why Metal Roofs Are Ideal for Snow and Ice
When the snow starts piling up and temperatures dip below freezing, your roof becomes your home’s first line of defense.
Metal roofs offer several unique advantages in these conditions, making them an increasingly popular choice in cold climates. Here’s why metal roofing excels at handling snow and ice:
1. Snow Sheds Easily
One of the biggest advantages of metal roofs in winter is their ability to shed snow. The smooth, hard surface prevents snow from accumulating and encourages it to slide off more quickly than on asphalt shingles. This reduces the weight burden on your roof and helps prevent structural stress or collapse.
2. Ice Dams Are Less Likely
Ice dams form when warm air from your attic melts snow on your roof, which then refreezes at the eaves. Because metal roofs are highly conductive and snow doesn’t sit on them as long, there’s less opportunity for ice dams to form—especially when paired with proper attic insulation and ventilation.
3. Durability in Harsh Weather
Metal roofing is engineered to withstand extreme weather, including heavy snow loads, high winds, and freeze-thaw cycles. Unlike traditional shingles, metal won’t crack or deteriorate under harsh winter conditions, making it a reliable long-term investment.
Important Considerations
While metal roofs are excellent at shedding snow and resisting ice buildup, it’s important to consider factors like roof pitch, proper insulation, and the need for snow guards in high-snowfall areas.
Here are the top three considerations you should think about before installing a metal roof:
1. Snow Guards Are a Must
The very thing that makes metal roofs so great—rapid snow shedding—can also be a hazard. Large sheets of snow and ice can slide off suddenly, posing a danger to people, pets, or property below.
Installing snow guards or snow retention systems helps break up these slides and control the snow as it melts.
2. Proper Installation Matters
To enjoy all the winter-weather benefits of a metal roof, it needs to be installed correctly. That means using high-quality materials, ensuring proper insulation and ventilation, and installing flashing and sealants that can stand up to temperature fluctuations.
3. Higher Upfront Cost
Metal roofs cost more upfront than asphalt shingles. However, their longevity (often 40–70 years), energy efficiency, and minimal winter maintenance needs make them cost-effective over time.
Bonus Benefits in Winter
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect sunlight, which can help regulate attic temperatures and reduce heating costs.
- Fire Resistance: If you use a wood-burning stove or live in a fire-prone area, a metal roof offers added protection.
- Low Maintenance: Snow doesn’t stick, moss doesn’t grow, and the material itself resists corrosion—meaning less work for you.
Is a Metal Roof Right for You?
If you’re facing long, snowy winters year after year, a metal roof can be a smart investment. Its durability, snow-shedding properties, and resistance to ice dams make it ideal for cold climates like Wisconsin.
Just remember to install snow guards and ensure a professional handles the installation to maximize its performance. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your current roof, metal is a reliable, winter-ready choice.
Learn more with “The Rise of Metal Roofing: Pros, Cons, & Why It’s Gaining Popularity” and “Top Benefits of Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles: How to Choose.”
While Rescue My Roof does not currently offer metal roof installation, we are here to help with all your asphalt and flat roofing needs. Contact us today to get a free estimate.
