Best Roofing Options for Connecticut’s Climate

Many homeowners adore the red clay roofing tiles of Southern California and want the same for their own home, but the reality is is that those just won’t hold up throughout the Connecticut climate. Opinions about the best roofing materials vary by climate and it is important to know which ones can best withstand the scorching summers and brutal winters in Connecticut areas.

The first thing to consider is what kind of roofing materials are strong enough to endure this unpredictable climate the most so you won’t run into any problems!

Shingles are the most common choice for all climate zones, since they provide proper insulation can be soaked in a felt to waterproof it. However, normal asphalt shingles are extremely light and therefore are easily damaged or torn off by severe windstorms or snowstorms. Additionally, dark shingles will help attract any heat to the house in the winter months. In areas like Connecticut and the rest of New England, the best shingle is an organic asphalt shingle. After being coated in the waterproof felt, they are coated in adhesive asphalt and ceramic granules to make them heavier, more durable and less likely to be blown off the roof. Another option is High Wind and Impact Resistant Asphalt Shingles, which are especially designed to endure frequent heavy rain and being covered by ice and snow for months on end. And while they defend in the winter, these shingles help keep the house cool in the summer by ventilating the home and keeping energy costs down. These shingles have been found to last from 19-20 years.

Due to the durability of a slate roof (they have been known to have a lifespan of 100 years!), this is another fantastic option for the Connecticut winter. Slate is a heavy material itself, so it can support a lot of weight for an extended period of time. However, be aware that slate roofing requires extra reinforcement in the roofing structure so that your home can support both the roof and the gathering snow. An excellent alternative to slate is synthetic slate because it is not as heavy and is made from materials that absorb water. This benefits your home in an icy Connecticut winter because when the freezing temperature creates a freeze-and-thaw cycle, the synthetic slate prevents any ice dams from forming on the roof. Additionally, slate roofs also keep out heavy rains and have cooling effects on your home during Connecticut summers.

A metal roof is probably the best option for wet and humid areas, so it is a definite contender for your Connecticut home’s roof. New metal options are rust-resistant and extremely waterproof, preventing any algae, mold or mildew growth in your home. Additionally, the strong winds that will blow shingles right off the roof have very little effect on metal roofing. While hail can damage and dent the metal, that is true with any other material as well. However, while this may be the better and more attractive option, metal roofs are usually more expensive than asphalt shingles and slate.

Other factors to consider when purchasing a new roof is the design of the roof itself. As Connecticut and New England often lie under heavy piles of snow, it is important to have a high pitch so that snow and water can run-off easily. Since Connecticut does have hotter summers, a drastically pitched roof is not necessary, but a flat roof is still not recommended. In climates that have temperatures over 45 degrees, a ventilation system that helps the home expel hot air from the sun to keep the building cooler is necessary.