Missouri Winters Can Be Brutal — Is Your Roof Ready?
Missouri winters are anything but predictable. One day it’s freezing rain, the next it’s a heavy snowstorm, and just days later you’re dealing with thaw and re-freeze cycles that can wreak havoc on your home’s roofing system. It’s no surprise that local homeowners are increasingly asking: What type of roof handles winter better — metal or asphalt shingles?
In this roofing comparison for Missouri, we break down how metal vs asphalt shingles perform in cold climates, particularly when it comes to having a truly snow-ready roof.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
- How metal and asphalt shingles perform in Missouri’s winter weather
- The pros and cons of each material for snow, wind, and ice
- Upfront and long-term cost differences
- What you should know before replacing your roof
- How Freedom Restoration and Roofing helps you make the right winter-ready choice
If you’re ready to protect your home before the next winter hits, Freedom Roofing can help. Visit our homepage to schedule your free inspection.
Why Your Roofing Choice Matters During Missouri Winters
Winter Brings More Than Just Cold
In Missouri, winter isn’t defined solely by snow — it’s a full season of freeze-thaw cycles, ice storms, wind gusts, and occasional hail. From November through March, your roof is tested on every front: structural durability, waterproofing, and insulation performance.
The debate between metal vs asphalt shingles becomes especially relevant when temperatures drop. Your roofing system needs to do more than look good — it must perform under pressure, and for years to come.
That’s why understanding the difference between these two roofing types is critical for homeowners looking to install or upgrade to a snow-ready roof.
What Missouri Homeowners Should Consider Before Choosing a Roof
Budget Expectations
Metal roofs come at a higher upfront cost, starting at around $1,000 per roofing square. Asphalt shingles typically run closer to $500 per square. While shingles are more affordable at the start, metal can offer a longer return on investment.
Local Building Codes and Permits
Missouri municipalities often require permits for roof replacements. Local codes may also mandate ice and water barriers, especially at roof edges and valleys, to protect against freeze-related damage. Freedom Roofing handles all permitting and code compliance for you.
Roof Slope and Home Style
Metal roofing works especially well on moderate to steep-sloped roofs because of its ability to shed snow quickly. Asphalt shingles work well on most roof styles but may require additional ventilation or underlayment upgrades in winter climates.
Product Availability
Freedom Roofing installs proven winter-rated roofing systems, including:
- Owens Corning Duration and Duration Storm shingles
- Central States standing seam and exposed fastener metal systems
Missouri Winter Roofing Comparison: Metal vs Asphalt Shingles
Snow Management and Ice Damming
Metal roofing is more effective at shedding snow and preventing ice buildup. Its smooth surface doesn’t allow snow to stick, so snow slides off easily, minimizing load and reducing the chance of ice dam formation.
Asphalt shingles retain snow for longer. Without proper ventilation and underlayment, this can lead to ice dams that force water back up under the shingles, potentially causing leaks.
For homeowners looking for a snow-ready roof, metal is the better performer in terms of snow management.
Wind, Storm, and Freeze-Thaw Resistance
Metal roofing can handle wind speeds up to 140 miles per hour and stands up well to sudden temperature changes. It is also fire-resistant and less likely to suffer from hail impact damage.
High-quality asphalt shingles, such as Owens Corning Duration Storm, are rated for winds up to 130 miles per hour and offer Class 4 impact resistance. However, shingles can be more vulnerable to granule loss, cracking, or lifting in extreme cold.
Freedom Roofing installs impact-rated shingles designed to meet the performance needs of Missouri homes in all four seasons.
Cost Over Time and Long-Term Value
| Feature | Asphalt Shingles | Metal Roofing |
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Lifespan | 15 to 25 years | 40 to 70 years |
| Insurance Savings Potential | Moderate | Often Higher |
| Maintenance Requirements | Moderate | Low |
While asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly up front, metal roofing systems typically offer a longer lifespan, fewer repairs, and potential energy and insurance savings that justify the higher initial investment.
Energy Efficiency in Winter Months
Metal roofing reflects heat in warmer months and helps regulate attic temperature year-round. With proper insulation, a metal roof can reduce winter heat loss.
Asphalt shingles retain heat more naturally, which may help during colder months, but they can also contribute to uneven attic temperatures and ice damming if not installed with adequate ventilation.
Freedom Roofing evaluates attic insulation, roof ventilation, and material compatibility during every roof inspection to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
What Makes a Roof Truly Winter-Ready in Missouri?
Real Weather Challenges in Our Region
Homes in the greater St. Louis area regularly face a mix of snow, freezing rain, wind, and even hail during winter. A winter-ready roofing system must be able to handle multiple stressors — not just snow.
At Freedom Roofing, our standard winter-prep measures include:
- Ice and water shield barriers at eaves and valleys
- Proper flashing and ventilation installation
- Material selections rated for impact and wind resistance
Roofing Warranties That Matter
We install:
- Owens Corning Duration Storm shingles with lifetime limited warranties and Class 4 impact ratings
- Central States metal roofing with warranties up to 40 years
All Freedom Roofing full roof installations include a 5-year workmanship guarantee.
Winter Roofing Questions Missouri Homeowners Ask About Metal vs. Shingles
What roofing material is best for Missouri winters?
The best roofing material for Missouri winters is metal roofing, due to its superior snow-shedding ability and resistance to ice, wind, and temperature shifts. Asphalt shingles, especially storm-rated ones, also perform well when installed with proper ventilation and underlayment.
Can asphalt shingles handle snow and ice?
Asphalt shingles can handle snow and ice if installed with ice barriers and attic ventilation. Without these upgrades, they are more prone to ice damming and moisture-related issues.
Does metal roofing work well in cold Missouri weather?
Metal roofing works exceptionally well in Missouri’s cold weather because it sheds snow quickly and resists cracking or lifting from freeze-thaw cycles. Its durability also makes it a strong choice in hail and wind events.
Can a roof be replaced during winter in Missouri?
Roofs can be replaced during winter in Missouri, but most contractors—including Freedom Roofing—recommend doing replacements when daytime temperatures consistently stay above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Which roof type is more affordable?
Asphalt shingles are more affordable upfront than metal roofing, making them a practical choice for short- to mid-term homeowners. Metal offers a better long-term value for those staying in their home for 15 years or more.
Is metal roofing noisy during hail or rain?
Properly installed metal roofing with underlayment and attic insulation is not significantly louder than asphalt shingles. At Freedom Roofing, we use installation techniques that minimize sound transfer during storms.
Will insurance cover winter storm roof damage?
Insurance often covers roof damage caused by winter storms if it results from a specific event, like hail or wind. Freedom Roofing works directly with homeowners and insurance adjusters to document and process claims efficiently.
Are special shingles needed for winter performance?
Impact-rated shingles like Owens Corning Duration Storm are recommended for winter performance. These shingles are designed to handle wind, ice, and hail — making them ideal for Missouri’s unpredictable winters.
Choose the Right Roofing System for Missouri Winters
Choosing between metal vs asphalt shingles for winter performance in Missouri is about more than aesthetics. It’s about installing a roof that can stand up to snow, ice, and wind while keeping your home warm and protected.
Freedom Restoration and Roofing has over a decade of experience helping Missouri homeowners make informed, confident roofing decisions. As an Owens Corning Platinum Contractor and BBB A+ rated company, we deliver workmanship and materials you can count on.
Schedule your free inspection today to find out which roofing option is right for your winter-ready home.
