When you live in Iowa, you know the winters aren’t messing around. One week it’s snow piling up on your roof, the next it’s ice storms, and somewhere in between you’ll get a freeze-thaw cycle that makes your gutters groan in protest. All that weather doesn’t just make your morning commute tricky, it also puts serious stress on your roof. While Rexterior is happy to help you with Snow and Ice Removal, we recommend metal roofing for all of its amazing benefits.
Let’s break down how Iowa winters cause roof damage and why metal roofing durability makes it the long-term solution for Midwest homeowners.
How Winter Weather Wears Down Traditional Roofs
- Snow Load
That picturesque blanket of snow? It’s also hundreds (sometimes thousands) of pounds sitting on top of your house. Traditional shingles can crack under the weight, especially if the roof structure is already compromised. - Ice Dams
When heat escapes from your attic, it melts snow on the roof. That water runs down and refreezes at the edges, creating ice dams. These dams force water back under shingles, causing leaks and hidden water damage. - Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Snow melts during the day and refreezes at night. This constant expansion and contraction loosens shingles, splits flashing, and creates gaps where moisture sneaks in. - Wind and Hail
Midwest storms don’t wait for summer, hail and winter winds can loosen shingles and expose your roof deck to the elements.
Why Metal Roofing Handles Iowa Winters Better
Unlike asphalt shingles that can wear out after 15–20 years, metal roofing is built for the long haul, especially in climates like ours. Here’s why:
- Shedding Snow & Ice: Metal’s smooth surface makes it harder for snow and ice to stick. That means less weight and fewer ice dams.
- Freeze-Thaw Resistant: No brittle shingles to crack or curl. Metal panels expand and contract without losing their integrity.
- Wind & Hail Tough: Metal roofing stands up to gusty Iowa winds and takes hail impacts without losing performance.
- Energy Efficiency: While it’s busy protecting you in winter, metal roofing also reflects sunlight in summer, keeping your home cooler year-round.
- Long-Term Durability: With a lifespan of 50+ years, metal roofing often outlasts two or even three cycles of traditional shingle roofs.
Midwest Roofing Solutions That Go the Distance
At Rexterior, we know Iowa weather because we live it too. That’s why we recommend metal roofing as the smartest investment for homeowners who want peace of mind through snowstorms, ice, and everything in between.
If your roof is showing signs of roof damage, or you’re just tired of patching leaks every winter, it might be time to consider a more permanent solution.
Learn more about our Metal Roofing services and see why it could be the last roof you ever need.
Rex’s Takeaway
Winter is tough, but your roof should be tougher. Instead of stressing over the next ice dam or hailstorm, choose a roofing system designed to withstand it all. With metal roof durability on your side, you’ll spend less time worrying about repairs and more time enjoying that hot cup of coffee while the snow falls outside.