Top Roofing Materials for Cold Weather

In Philadelphia, where winters can be harsh and unpredictable, selecting a durable roofing material is essential. The right material protects your home and enhances your roof’s longevity, especially in extreme cold. At Sterner Brothers Roofing, we’ve compiled a list of the best roofing materials for cold weather durability to help you choose wisely.

1. Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and Reliable

Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing materials, known for their affordability and reliable performance in cold weather. They provide excellent insulation, helping to keep your home warm. In addition, asphalt shingles are designed to expand and contract with temperature changes, making them resilient against Philadelphia’s freeze-thaw cycles.

Why Choose Asphalt Shingles?
They are cost-effective, durable, and can withstand snow and ice buildup with minimal maintenance.

2. Metal Roofing: Highly Durable and Long-Lasting

Metal roofing is one of the best materials for withstanding severe winter conditions. It naturally sheds snow and ice, which reduces the risk of ice dams. Metal roofs also offer high resistance to wind, water, and cold, making them ideal for Philadelphia’s unpredictable winters. With proper insulation, metal roofs also help keep heating costs down.

Why Choose Metal Roofing?
Metal roofs are incredibly durable, fire-resistant, and low-maintenance, with a lifespan of 40–70 years.

3. Slate Roofing: Premium Quality with Exceptional Strength

Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, lasting up to 100 years or more when maintained properly. Its natural stone composition provides outstanding resilience against cold weather, and its weight makes it highly resistant to wind damage. Though slate roofing is a larger initial investment, it pays off with long-lasting protection.

Why Choose Slate Roofing?
Slate is weather-resistant, long-lasting, and adds timeless beauty to your home, ideal for cold climates like Philadelphia.

4. Wood Shingles and Shakes: Insulating and Attractive

Wood shingles and shakes, typically made from cedar, offer excellent insulation, which is beneficial during Philadelphia’s cold months. Wood can handle freeze-thaw cycles well, though it requires regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage. With a rustic look, wood shingles add a unique aesthetic appeal to your home.

Why Choose Wood Shingles and Shakes?
They offer natural insulation and are eco-friendly, though they require maintenance to prevent rot.

5. Synthetic Roofing: Advanced Durability and Versatility

Synthetic roofing materials, including rubber and polymer-based options, are engineered to withstand severe weather conditions. These materials often mimic slate or wood in appearance but are lighter, more affordable, and highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and extreme cold.

Why Choose Synthetic Roofing?
Synthetic options offer durability, energy efficiency, and an affordable alternative to natural materials.



Choose the Right Material for Lasting Protection

Selecting the right roofing material is crucial for enduring Philadelphia's cold, snowy winters. At Sterner Brothers Roofing, we have extensive experience in helping homeowners choose the best materials for their needs. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s find the best solution to protect your roof from the winter weather.