An industry expert explains your roofing options

By Viotell Metal Concepts. 

Location, climate and material performance are all factors that should inform your roofing decisions. 

Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make, especially in climates that experience extreme heat, heavy snow and rapid temperature changes. Here at Viotell Metal Concepts, we help homeowners evaluate roofing solutions that are engineered to withstand demanding weather conditions while providing lasting value and performance. Selecting the right system from the start can prevent premature failure, reduce maintenance costs and protect your home for decades to come. 

Here’s what your roof has to deal with 

It doesn’t matter if you’re up in the mountains or down in the valley; we see it all: 

• Blazing sun through July and August 
• Wet, heavy snow that stacks up fast 
• Wild temperature swings, sometimes within the same day 

That mix can be brutal on roofing materials that aren’t built for it. I’ve seen roofs warp, crack or just give out early because they weren’t made for our kind of climate. 

What roofing options actually work 

Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials I’ve worked with and how they really perform, not just what the brochures say. 

Metal roofing 

This is easily one of the best options. Metal roofs shed snow like nothing else, which means less buildup and less strain on your structure. They also handle our sun and wind really well. A bonus? They’re fire-resistant, which is a huge plus if you’re near dry brush or wooded areas. 

Asphalt shingles 

These are everywhere, and for good reason. They’re affordable, and when installed properly, they can last a good 20–30 years. But in snow-heavy areas, they do wear out faster. I’ve seen more than a few that need replacing earlier than expected, especially if ventilation was done poorly. 

Slate 

I don’t see it as often, mostly because it’s pricey and heavy. But if your house can support the weight and you’re ready to invest, slate can last a century. It looks amazing and holds up to pretty much anything weather throws at it. 

Clay and concrete tile 

These work better in lower elevations. In warmer neighborhoods, they do a great job of reflecting heat. But up in the mountains? Not so much. That constant freeze and thaw cause them to crack over time. I’ve had to pull more than a few off of roofs after just a few winters. 

Wood shakes or shingles 

People love the rustic vibe, and I get it; they’re beautiful. But without constant maintenance, they don’t hold up well. Moisture and fire risk are real concerns. If you’re going to go this route, just know you’ll be putting in the work to keep them looking good and staying safe. 

What should you consider? 

Every house is different, but a few things I always ask homeowners to think about: 

• What kind of snowfall do you get each year? 
• Do you want to set it and forget it, or are you okay with regular maintenance? 
• What’s your budget not just upfront, but long term? 
• Are there any HOA or local code restrictions? 

Answering those honestly makes it a lot easier to narrow things down. 

My two cents after years in this industry 

If I were re-roofing a home in an area that experiences regular snow, I’d go with metal. It’s just too reliable in winter conditions. For folks in areas with less snow exposure and mild climates, you’ve got a bit more flexibility. High-quality asphalt shingles can absolutely do the job if installed right and ventilated properly. 

More important than the material, though, is the crew doing the work. Even the best roofing system can fail if it’s installed poorly. And don’t skip attic ventilation; that’s where a lot of people go wrong. 

Need a hand? 

This is what we do every day at Viotell Metal Concepts for the people in Utah. We live here, work here and we know what actually lasts through Utah’s seasons. If you’re unsure what to go with or just want a second opinion before pulling the trigger, give us a call. No pressure, no sales pitch; just solid advice from people who’ve seen it all. 

We’ll help you pick a roof that looks good, lasts long and gives you one less thing to worry about when winter rolls in. 

Original article and photo source: Viotell Metal Concepts