Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a GAF Master Elite contractor serving 730+ towns across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine with 7,000+ installations completed since 2011, and both asphalt shingles and metal roofing stand up well to harsh weather.
Comparing Roofing Materials for Cold-Climate Winters
- Asphalt Shingles Offer Value: Quality asphalt shingles last 50+ years and suit most budgets. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles resist wind and shed snow with ease.
- Metal Roofing Maximizes Lifespan: Metal roofs last 70+ years and stand up to freeze-thaw cycles. They shed heavy snow and resist ice buildup through long winters.
- Snow Load Drives the Decision: Fresh, light snow weighs about 5 pounds per square foot. Wet, dense snow climbs to 20+ pounds per square foot on your roof.
- Ventilation Protects Both Options: Balanced attic airflow reduces the melting that fuels ice dams. Proper ventilation extends the life of any roofing material you choose.
- Leak Barriers Guard the Eaves: Self-adhering membranes stop water where ice dams tend to form. That protection matters most on the snowiest streets.
- Energy Performance Adds Up: Metal roofs can save meaningful energy compared with asphalt. Over decades, that efficiency eases the load on your home’s heating and cooling.
The Right Material for Your Home
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best For | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 50+ year lifespan, lower upfront cost, wide style range | Shorter lifespan than metal | Budget-minded homeowners | ~$35,701 New England average |
| Metal Roofing | 70+ year lifespan, sheds snow, energy savings | Higher upfront investment | Maximum longevity seekers | ~$56,282 New England average |
Top Recommendation: Metal roofing for a home built to outlast the mortgage.
Best for Budget: Asphalt shingles for dependable 50+ year protection at a friendlier price.
Best for Snow Country: A GAF 6-layer system with balanced ventilation and leak barriers.
Request a free roofing estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Browse our complete roofing FAQ guide from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Explore the Coastal Windows & Exteriors Roofing Exterior Remodeling Home Improvement Help Center.
Still have questions about What Roofing Materials Stand Up Best to Weather? See the areas we serve and talk to your local roofing contractor.
Last Updated: August 2026
Sources:
- Fresh, light, powdery snow averages about 5 pounds per square foot. Coastal Windows & Exteriors How Much Snow Can a Roof Handle Safely, GAF’s guidance on roof snow load and winter risks. (2026)
- The average cost to replace an asphalt roof is $35,701 in New England, and a metal roof averages $56,282. Coastal Windows & Exteriors JLC 2025 Cost vs. Value — New England, regional cost versus value data for roofing projects. (2026)
- Metal roofs can save meaningful energy compared with asphalt roofing. Coastal Windows & Exteriors Metal Roof Energy Performance Study, Oak Ridge National Laboratory research on metal roof energy savings. (Accessed July 2026)
