After three decades of installing and maintaining roofs throughout Lancaster County, we at Brubaker Roofing have learned that material choice can make or break your roof’s performance. Our local climate presents unique challenges that not every roofing material handles equally well.
From heavy winter snow loads to humid summers and everything in between, Lancaster’s four-season weather puts roofing materials through their paces. The material that works perfectly in Arizona might fail miserably here, so local expertise matters when making this critical investment.
Why Material Choice Matters in Lancaster
Lancaster County’s climate is surprisingly demanding on roofing materials. Our winters bring significant snowfall and brutal freeze-thaw cycles that can crack and split materials not designed for temperature extremes.
Spring storms can bring high winds and heavy rains, testing a roof’s wind resistance and water-shedding ability. Summer heat and humidity accelerate the aging of some materials while benefiting others.
Your roof must handle all these conditions yearly while maintaining its protective qualities and appearance. As your trusted Lancaster roofing professionals, we’ve seen how the right material choice can mean the difference between a 15-year and 30-year roof.
The key is matching the material’s strengths to our local challenges while considering your budget, home style, and long-term plans.
Asphalt Shingles: The Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles dominate Lancaster’s residential roofing market for good reason; they offer most homeowners the best performance, aesthetics, and affordability balance. Modern architectural shingles perform significantly better than the old 3-tab versions, with improved wind ratings and more extended warranties.
In Lancaster’s climate, quality asphalt shingles typically last 20-25 years with proper installation and maintenance. They handle our snow loads well and come in colors and styles that complement traditional and contemporary home designs.
The most significant advantages of asphalt shingles include their relatively low upfront cost, wide variety of styles and colors, and the fact that most roofing contractors can install and repair them. When storm damage occurs, replacement shingles are readily available, and repairs can be completed quickly.
However, asphalt shingles do have limitations in our climate. High winds can lift and damage them, and the constant freeze-thaw cycles gradually break down the material over time.
Granule loss is inevitable and accelerates as the shingles age, reducing their protective qualities and aesthetic appeal. They’re also more susceptible to algae growth in humid conditions, though algae-resistant shingles have largely solved this problem.
Metal Roofing: Durability Meets Efficiency
Metal roofing has gained popularity in Lancaster County as homeowners recognize its superior performance in our challenging climate. Standing seam metal roofs excel at shedding snow, reducing the risk of ice dams that plague many homes during winter.
Metal roofing’s energy efficiency shines during Lancaster’s hot summers. Light-colored metal reflects heat rather than absorbing it like dark asphalt shingles, which can significantly reduce cooling costs.
Metal roofs typically last 40-50 years or more in our climate, making them an excellent long-term investment despite higher upfront costs. Once properly installed, they’re also virtually maintenance-free, and their fire resistance provides additional peace of mind.
The main drawbacks of metal roofing include the higher initial investment and the potential for expansion and contraction noise during temperature swings. Some homeowners also find the aesthetic options more limited than other materials, though metal shingle systems now offer more traditional appearances.
Professional installation is crucial with metal roofing, as improper installation can lead to leaks and reduced performance. However, when installed correctly by experienced contractors, metal roofs protect against Lancaster’s weather extremes.
Slate and Tile: Premium Options for Lancaster Homes
Natural slate represents the ultimate roofing longevity, with properly installed slate roofs lasting 75-100 years or more. Pennsylvania has a long history with slate roofing, and many of Lancaster’s historic homes still sport their original slate roofs from decades past.
Slate handles freeze-thaw cycles exceptionally well and provides unmatched fire resistance. Its natural beauty and variety of colors create distinctive, elegant rooflines that significantly enhance property values.
Clay and concrete tiles offer similar longevity benefits, though they require careful consideration in Lancaster’s climate. Quality tiles can last 50-75 years, but proper installation techniques are critical to prevent freeze damage.
The primary challenges with both slate and tile include their substantial weight, which may require structural reinforcement on older homes. The upfront costs are significantly higher than other materials, and specialized installation expertise is essential.
Repairs can also be more complex and expensive, as matching materials may be difficult to source and require skilled craftsmen familiar with these traditional techniques. However, when budget allows and the home can support the weight, these premium materials provide unparalleled longevity and beauty.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Home
The best roofing material for your Lancaster home depends on several factors beyond just climate performance. Your budget, home’s architectural style, and long-term ownership plans all play important roles in this decision.
Consider the total cost of ownership, not just upfront expenses. A metal roof that costs twice as much as asphalt shingles but lasts twice as long may actually provide better value over time.
Your home’s structural capacity matters too, older homes may need reinforcement before installing heavier materials like slate or tile. Local building codes and HOA restrictions might also influence your options.
At Brubaker Roofing, we help homeowners evaluate all these factors to find the material that best fits their specific situation. We can assess your home’s structural capacity, discuss your long-term plans, and provide honest recommendations based on your priorities and budget.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation about the best roofing material for your Lancaster home. With our decades of local experience, we’ll help you make an informed decision that protects your investment for years to come.
