By Trevor Underwood, DECRA.
It doesn’t take long living in Colorado to understand the varied weather patterns and sometimes extreme conditions. Between the expansive terrains and unpredictable weather events, choosing the right roof seems nearly impossible. Rest assured, DECRA Metal Roofing understands this challenge and breaks down some of the implications of weather on a roof while helping you select the best roof for every home.
Colorado's unique geographical position exposes the state to a range of weather events that can be punishing to the structure and integrity of a roof. The impacts can range from minor wear and tear to significant damage requiring a complete replacement.
Here's a closer look at five common Colorado weather conditions and how they can impact a roof.
Hail
Colorado takes the crown as the top-ranking state for hail losses, with annual damages averaging around $151.5 million. The impact from hailstones can inflict severe damage to the roof in the form of cracking, denting or even puncturing the roofing material, leaving the underlying layers exposed to further weather elements.
Snow
With an annual snowfall averaging 57 inches, nearly double that of New York City, Colorado homeowners need to factor snow load in when considering a new roof. Why? Because where there is snow, there is ice which can lead to ice dams. Ice dams form when heat loss through the roof melts snow on the roof. The meltwater flows to the cold eave overhang where it freezes. This ongoing process causes ice to build up and creates a dam, eventually preventing upslope meltwater from draining off the roof. If proper ice dam protection is not provided, ponded water can back up under the roofing system and cause building leaks.
Dramatic temperature swings
Despite the perception of long, snowy winters, Colorado's snow often melts quickly due to warm winds. However, dramatic swings in temperature from warm to freezing conditions can lead to a cycle of expansion and contraction of the roof. Over time, this can hasten the wear and tear of the roof, reduce its lifespan and lead to leaks.
High winds
High winds in Colorado, particularly the Chinook winds, can reach over 100 mph in extreme cases. While not as common as in the Midwest, parts of Colorado can even experience high winds in the form of tornados. Wind uplift from high winds refers to the upward force exerted on a roof due to the pressure differential created by wind flowing over and around a building. This force can cause the roof to lift, potentially leading to damage and even complete roof failure if not properly managed.
Fire
Colorado is no stranger to wildfires. The recent Marshall Fire underlined the importance of having a fire-resistant roofing material. Embers carried by wind can land on roofs and, if the material is combustible, such as petroleum-based asphalt shingles, it can catch on fire.
Colorado's diverse and often extreme weather conditions necessitate a roof that can withstand nearly anything Mother Nature has to throw at it.
Here’s what to look for based on the climate conditions that impact your region as well as related resources to provide more in-depth information on each climate condition.
Hail
When it comes to hail, the best type of roof for hail will have a Class 4 Impact Resistance rating – the highest rating possible. Additionally, look for a roof that comes with a warranty that covers hail penetration up to 2.5 inches in diameter.
Related resource: What does hail damage on a roof look like?
Snow
For homes in snowy regions, the roof must be able to support the weight of heavy snow loads while preventing the buildup of ice dams. The best roof for snow will have (more).
Related resource: Understand ice dams: Causes and prevention.
Dramatic temperature swings
Colorado's dramatic temperature swings require a roofing material that can contract and expand without becoming brittle or cracked. Look for non-porous roofing materials that have gone through extensive testing to prove their ability to withstand repeated exposure to weather scenarios that cause contraction and expansion, such as:
Related resource: Guide to roof performance: How roofing materials are tested
High winds
High wind resistance is a must for Colorado roofs. It’s important to keep in mind that high winds can result in wind-driven debris and wind-driven rain hitting the roof. Look for a roof that is tested in compliance with the:
Related resource: What roofs are best for high winds?
Fire
In fire-prone areas, choosing non-combustible roofing materials is essential. Metal and tile roofs are non-combustible and provide excellent fire resistance. The best roofing materials for fire resistance will have a Class A fire rating, the highest rating available for residential applications.
Related resource: What is the best roofing material for fire?
Architectural styles in Colorado lean towards rustic luxury and alpine elegance. Modern home designs are growing in popularity as well, making design versatility an important consideration when choosing the best roofing material for Colorado homes.
Stone-coated metal roofing is one of the best choices because it can provide both the strength and style required for residential roofing in Colorado.
And that brings us to another priority for environmentally conscious homeowners in Colorado – sustainability.
When it comes to durability and environmental impact, metal roofing is tough to beat.
“Metal roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their life as a roof. In contrast, most [asphalt] shingle tear-off waste ends up as part of the building-related waste stream — up to 20 billion pounds per year.” – State Farm: Advantages of metal roofs
For example, DECRA stone-coated metal roofs have a lifespan that is two to three times longer than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles. The frequent need to replace asphalt shingle roofs can be expensive and negatively impact the environment.
Additionally, as one of the lightest roofing materials available, DECRA roofs often eliminate the need to tear off the existing asphalt shingle roof, helping divert asphalt shingle waste from piling up in local landfills.
Metal roofs are also one of the most energy-efficient roofing materials available. In fact, a DECRA roof is so energy efficient it can save Colorado homeowners up to 25% on their heating and cooling costs.
Related resource: Are metal roofs environmentally friendly?
Original article source: DECRA
Learn more about DECRA Metal Roofing in their Coffee Shop Directory or visit www.DECRA.com.
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