When it’s time to replace a roof, one of the biggest decisions isn’t just which roofing contractor to hire. It’s deciding which roofing material makes the most sense for your home.
St. Louis homeowners have to consider more than appearance. Missouri roofs experience hot summer temperatures, freezing winter conditions, heavy rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, and periodic hail. The roofing material you choose needs to perform through all of those conditions.
There isn’t one roofing material that’s perfect for every home.
The right choice depends on your home’s design, roof slope, budget, expected lifespan, maintenance needs, and the type of weather your roof regularly faces.
Here are some of the most common roofing options homeowners in the St. Louis area should consider.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used on residential homes in St. Louis.
They’re popular because they offer a practical combination of affordability, appearance, and performance.
Standard asphalt shingles can be a good choice for homeowners who want reliable protection without the higher upfront cost associated with some premium roofing materials.
Advantages of asphalt shingles
- Generally affordable
- Available in many colors and styles
- Suitable for many residential roof designs
- Relatively straightforward to install and repair
- Widely available
However, not all asphalt shingles are the same. Product quality, installation, ventilation, and weather exposure can all affect how well a roof performs.
For Missouri homeowners, choosing a quality shingle and having it properly installed is just as important as choosing the material itself.
2. Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are another popular option for residential roofing.
They are generally thicker and more dimensional than basic three-tab shingles, giving the roof a more textured appearance.
For homeowners replacing an older roof, architectural shingles can provide an upgrade in both appearance and performance.
Why homeowners choose architectural shingles
- More dimensional appearance
- Wide range of colors
- Strong residential curb appeal
- Available with different wind and impact ratings
- Good fit for many suburban homes
The exact performance characteristics vary by manufacturer and product line, so homeowners should compare the specifications rather than assuming every architectural shingle performs the same way.
3. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has become another option for homeowners looking for long-term durability.
Metal roofs can be made from materials such as steel or aluminum and are available in several styles and finishes.
Potential advantages include:
- Long service life
- Low maintenance requirements
- Resistance to many weather conditions
- Lightweight options available
- Modern appearance
Metal roofing can also cost more upfront than common asphalt shingle systems.
For that reason, homeowners should consider both the initial investment and the expected service life when comparing roofing options.
4. Synthetic and Composite Roofing
Synthetic roofing products are designed to replicate the appearance of materials such as slate or wood while using manufactured materials.
These products can provide a distinctive appearance without the weight or maintenance requirements associated with some natural roofing materials.
Depending on the product, synthetic roofing may offer:
- A wide range of styles
- Durable construction
- Lower weight than some natural materials
- Resistance to certain weather conditions
- Unique architectural appearance
Because synthetic roofing products vary considerably, homeowners should look closely at the manufacturer’s specifications, warranty, installation requirements, and expected lifespan before choosing one.
Which Roofing Material Handles Missouri Weather Best?
This is where the decision becomes more specific.
St. Louis roofs need to handle changing conditions throughout the year.
Summer
High temperatures and prolonged sun exposure can place stress on roofing materials.
Thunderstorms
Strong winds and heavy rain can lift or damage shingles and expose vulnerable areas of the roof.
Hail
Hail can damage shingles even when the damage isn’t immediately obvious from the ground.
Winter
Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and repeated temperature changes can affect roofing materials and flashing.
Because of these conditions, installation quality matters just as much as the roofing material itself.
A high-quality roofing product that is installed incorrectly can still develop problems.
Does a More Expensive Roofing Material Mean a Better Roof?
Not necessarily.
A premium roofing material may offer advantages such as greater durability, a longer expected lifespan, or a different appearance. But that doesn’t automatically mean it’s the best choice for every homeowner.
Consider:
- Your home’s design
- Roof slope
- Local weather exposure
- Expected lifespan
- Maintenance requirements
- Installation requirements
- Warranty
- Overall budget
For some homeowners, architectural asphalt shingles may provide the right balance of cost and performance.
For another homeowner, a premium or specialty material may make more sense.
The goal is to choose a roofing system that fits your home and your long-term plans, rather than simply choosing the most expensive option.
What About Hail-Resistant Roofing?
Hail is an important consideration for Missouri homeowners.
Some roofing products are designed and tested for improved impact resistance. However, homeowners should pay attention to the specific product rating and manufacturer documentation rather than assuming a roof is automatically hail-resistant.
If your current roof has recently experienced hail, don’t assume that visible damage is the only concern.
A professional inspection can help determine whether the roofing system has sustained damage and whether repair or replacement should be considered.
Should You Replace Your Roof With the Same Material?
Not always.
If your existing roof is reaching the end of its service life, replacement is an opportunity to evaluate whether another roofing material would better suit your home.
For example, you might consider upgrading from basic shingles to architectural shingles.
However, the best replacement material also depends on the existing roof structure, slope, ventilation, local requirements, and installation considerations.
A roofing professional can help you compare your options before you commit to a material.
Don’t Choose Roofing Material Based on Appearance Alone
A roof can completely change the appearance of a home, but aesthetics shouldn’t be the only consideration.
Before choosing a material, ask:
How will it perform on my home?
How long should it last?
What maintenance will it require?
What warranty does the manufacturer provide?
How does the installation affect the warranty?
How well is the product suited to Missouri weather?
Answering these questions can help you avoid choosing a roofing product simply because you like the way it looks.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Roof?
Choosing a roofing material only matters if your existing roof actually needs replacement.
Signs that it may be time to have your roof evaluated include:
- Widespread shingle damage
- Curling or deteriorating shingles
- Missing roofing materials
- Recurring leaks
- Significant storm damage
- Excessive granules in gutters
- An aging roofing system
- Visible deterioration around flashing and roof penetrations
However, these signs don’t automatically mean you need a complete replacement.
A professional assessment can determine whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is the appropriate next step.
Get Help Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your St. Louis Home
Replacing a roof is a major home investment, and choosing the right material shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Horizon Roofing & Exteriors helps homeowners throughout St. Louis and surrounding Missouri communities evaluate their roofing options based on the condition of their existing roof, their home’s needs, and their long-term goals.
Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, an aging roof, or simply planning ahead, our team can inspect your roof and explain your options.
Not sure which roofing material is right for your home? Schedule a free roof inspection with Horizon Roofing & Exteriors and talk with a local roofing professional about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common choices for residential homes because they offer a practical combination of cost, appearance, availability, and performance.
Architectural shingles are a type of asphalt shingle that generally provides a more dimensional appearance and can offer enhanced performance depending on the specific product. The right choice depends on the homeowner’s needs and budget.
Metal roofing can provide strong durability and long-term performance, making it an option worth considering for Missouri homes. However, installation quality and the specific metal roofing system are important.
Lifespan varies significantly by material, product quality, installation, maintenance, and weather exposure. Homeowners should compare the manufacturer’s expected service life and warranty when evaluating materials.
It can be, particularly for homeowners concerned about recurring hail exposure. Look at the specific product’s impact-resistance testing and rating rather than relying on general claims about hail resistance.
Architectural shingles can be an excellent option for many homes, but they aren’t automatically the best choice for every property. A professional evaluation can help you compare the available roofing systems.
Brian Donohue
Brian Donohue is the owner of Horizon Roofing & Exteriors, the leading roofing company in St. Peters, Missouri, dedicated to delivering quality roofing solutions. With a strong background in project management, sales, and customer service, Brian has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the roofing and construction industry.