Which Type of Roof Is Best for St. Louis, Missouri, Weather?

Roof replacements are significant investments, and you want to choose the best roofing material for your budget and your area’s climate. St. Louis, Missouri, is a unique location when it comes to selecting a roofing material — summers are hot while winters are freezing, and the area has a history of tornadoes. We’ll cover the best type of roof for the climate in St. Louis to help you decide. 

Coldstream Exteriors has the experience and knowledge to handle your roof replacement or repairs in the Greater St. Louis area. We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and we’re a recipient of the Angie’s List Super Service Award, making us the optimal choice for roof renovations. 

What Are Your Roof Material Options? 

When you notice signs of aging, like leaks or damage, it’s likely time for a roof replacement. Here are some material types you can consider for your roof in St. Louis.

Asphalt Shingles

Many homeowners choose asphalt singles because of their durability, longevity and style:

• Durability: Asphalt shingles are fireproof, waterproof and designed to withstand UV rays, and some varieties — like dimensional shingles — offer protection against wind and hail. These properties mean asphalt shingles can handle a range of weather conditions, including those experienced by the Greater St. Louis area. 
• Longevity: These roofs can last up to 30 years before needing to be replaced or majorly repaired, though this will ultimately depend on things like wind and the construction company you work with. 
• Style: Asphalt shingles come in many colors, so you have lots of customization options. For example, you can choose between neutral black asphalt shingles or bold blue shingles. You can also get specific about your shingle type. Opt for 3-tab shingles for a flat appearance or dimensional or premium shingles for a more textured look. Keep in mind that 3-tab shingles offer less durability than dimensional or premium shingles and may not be ideal for the St. Louis climate. 

Asphalt shingles are a cost-effective option because they don’t require any special tools for installation. They’re also light and easy to cut, which means installation is quick. One additional benefit: Because they are so easy to install, they’re also easy to replace. 

One potential disadvantage to consider with asphalt shingles is environmental-friendliness. Asphalt shingles are made using petroleum and increase our reliance on fossil fuels. 

Metal Roofing

Next, let’s look at whether metal roofs are OK for St. Louis, Missouri, weather. Metal roofs can be made of steel, stainless steel or copper, and there are two main types of metal roofing systems:

• Screw-down panel: Screws are pushed straight through the metal panels, reducing their ability to shift. This isn’t typically ideal because metal roofs expand and contract with the weather. When screws prevent panel movement, the screws will eventually wallow out. 
• Standing seam: Roof panels are locked together at each seam. This system is more stylish and long-lasting. 

The durability of metal makes it ideal for the St. Louis climate. Metal can withstand different weather conditions, including high winds and humidity. And unlike asphalt, metal is environmentally friendly, as metal roofs are almost fully recyclable once they reach the end of their life span. 

However, metal roofs come with a higher price tag, and they often require regular structural maintenance from a professional. They’re also more prone to denting due to things like hail, which can be a concern in the St. Louis area. 

Slate Tiles

Thanks to their distinctive appearance, slate tiles can be spotted a mile away. The natural stone product is elegant, durable, insulative and long-lasting. The drawback? Because slate is still stone, it comes with a higher upfront cost. However, you might find the initial cost worth it, as slate roofs can last well over 100 years. 

Are slate roofs the best type of roof for high winds in St. Louis? Well, natural stone can handle all types of weather, and due to its weight, it can handle high winds as well. 

Composite Roofing

Synthetic roofing is created from a mix of materials, including fiberglass, recycled paper and even asphalt. High-end varieties might also include rubber and plastic. Composite roof materials can be manufactured to look like slate, wood and ceramic, but unlike these materials, composite roofing is lightweight.

Composite roofing materials can closely mimic expensive options, and they can provide reliable protection during most weather conditions. Installation costs are typically higher than asphalt roof installation. 

Wooden Shingles and Shakes

The difference between shingles and shakes is that the former are machine-cut to give them a uniform look. Shakes are split from the logs rather than sawn, giving them a more rustic, textured appearance. Shakes require a specialized installation due to the irregularity of shapes and thickness.

But what the two have in common is that they do perform well as a roofing material, though they may not be able to withstand excessive moisture. Wood has to be treated when there is high humanity and rain, but if properly sealed, it can have a reasonably long life span.

So, Which Type of Roof Is Best for St. Louis, Missouri?

Asphalt, slate, metal — there are a lot of choices to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Most of the options above can work for the St. Louis climate if treated and maintained properly, so here are some factors to consider when choosing the best type of roof for your home in St. Louis:

• Budget: Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material option. It’s easy to install and still highly durable. 
• Colors: Some roofing materials — like asphalt shingles and slate shingles — come in a variety of colors. You can also paint your metal roof. 
• Replacement: If you’re planning on living in your home for a long time, you may want to choose a roofing material that won’t need to be replaced again while you live there. 
• Environmental friendliness: If sustainability is important to you, a roofing material like metal might be ideal. 

At the end of the day, your roofing choice will be about what complements the architectural style of your home and provides you with the best long-term performance and value.

Contact Coldstream Exteriors for Roof Replacements and Repairs 

Coldstream Exteriors provides roof repair and replacement services, whether your roof needs some attention due to leaks, damage or age. We have more than 25 years of experience in the field of residential exterior construction, and our team loves working with clients looking to enhance the function and aesthetics of their homes. 

With Coldstream Exteriors, you’ll work with a single project manager from start to finish, so you have a single point of contact throughout the entire process. Our services cater to all project types, and there’s no money due until your project is complete. 

Contact us for more information about roof replacement and repair services in the Greater St. Louis area!