Which Roofing Material is Right for Your Minnesota Home?

by Regan | Jun 11, 2025 | Blog, Roof Material

Choosing a roofing material isn’t something most homeowners do every day. If you’re like most people, you’re just hoping to pick something that lasts, looks good, and doesn’t wreck your budget. But here in Minnesota, your roof needs to handle all the four seasons can throw at it. We’re talking about deep freezes, snow loads, summer storms, and the kind of humidity that makes your windows sweat.

Maybe you want to stick with the same roofing material you’ve had for years, but if you’re looking to change, we can help you choose between the most common options: asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, Euroshield®, and metal roofing. How do each of them hold up in our Minnesota climate, and which one is right for your home?

Asphalt Shingles are Reliable

Asphalt shingles are made from a fiberglass base mat coated in asphalt and topped with mineral granules. There are different types, but architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminate shingles) are the most common choice for modern homes in Minnesota.

Lifespan: 15–30 years, depending on quality and maintenance.
Durability: Good. Quality shingles can handle most weather conditions well, especially when installed properly and maintained over time.

Asphalt Shingles in Minnesota Weather

Asphalt shingles hold up well to moderate hail, high winds, and heavy snow. In the winter, they shed snow and ice reasonably well if your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. They may not love the deep freeze, but they’re made for it.

However, shingles can suffer from:

Granule loss over time, especially with hail or UV exposure.
Lifting or curling during freeze-thaw cycles or extreme heat.
Damage from ice dams, particularly on older or poorly ventilated roofs.

Asphalt shingles are best for homeowners on a budget who still want a durable, attractive roof, or people who want the most common, proven roofing system for Minnesota homes. They are reliable for most residential homes, especially starter or mid-range houses.

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

Affordable
Variety of styles and colors
Works well on most home types

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Shorter lifespan than cedar or metal
Can be vulnerable to hail and wind over time

Note: ask about how you can upgrade to Class IV Shingles for more protection on your home!

Euroshield is Sustainable Rubber Roofing that is Built to Last

Euroshield roofing is made from recycled rubber, primarily sourced from used tires. These durable roofing shingles look like authentic wood shakes or natural slate and perform well in Minnesota. Euroshield is a smart choice for homeowners who want a high-performance, impact-resistant roof that is also sustainable.

Lifespan: 50+ years
Durability: Exceptional. Euroshield roofs are impact-rated for extreme hail and designed to withstand harsh weather without cracking, warping, or rotting.

Euroshield Roofing in Minnesota Weather

Euroshield’s rubber composition makes it flexible, allowing the material to expand and contract with temperature changes without damage. Snow and ice do not easily cling to the surface, which reduces ice dams. Euroshield products are also Class 4 impact rated, making them one of the most hail-resistant roofing systems on the market. They are tested to withstand simulated hail up to 4 inches in diameter.

The Pros of Euroshield Roofing

Made from up to 95% recycled materials
Superior hail resistance
Long lifespan with low maintenance
Authentic slate or shake appearance
Quiet, even during rain and hail
May qualify for insurance discounts
Limited lifetime warranty

The Cons of Euroshield Roofing

Higher upfront investment than asphalt shingles
Heavier than metal or asphalt, so it may require structural evaluation for older homes

Cedar Shakes Offer Natural Beauty

Cedar shakes are made from natural cedar wood, split or sawn by hand for a textured, rustic look. They’re thicker than shingles and give homes a warm, natural aesthetic you just can’t get from other materials.

Lifespan: 30–40 years with regular maintenance; sometimes longer.
Durability: Strong, but they need care. Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture and insects, but it needs breathing room and maintenance to stay healthy.

Cedar Shakes in Minnesota Weather

Cedar shake roofing performs surprisingly well in cold climates because it insulates naturally. This helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It handles snow and ice gracefully and resists wind when properly installed, but it comes with some caveats:

Cedar needs ventilation and routine maintenance to prevent rot or moss buildup.
It can be vulnerable to fire, so proper treatment is a must.
Our hot, humid summers can age the wood faster if not treated or maintained.

Cedar shakes are best for homeowners looking for distinctive curb appeal and natural charm. They are also for people who are comfortable with regular maintenance or upkeep, or for homes in neighborhoods with a historic or cabin-style aesthetic.

The Pros of Cedar Shake Roofing

Beautiful, high-end look
Naturally insulating and eco-friendly
Long lifespan if well maintained

The Cons of Cedar Shake Roofing

Higher cost upfront
Requires regular upkeep
Can be tricky to insure without fire treatment

Metal Roofing is a Long-Term Roofing Material

Metal roofing can be made from steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc. In Minnesota, galvanized or galvalume steel is most common because it is durable, weather-resistant, and coated to prevent corrosion. You’ll see metal roofs in standing seam designs, metal shingles, or even panels that mimic traditional shakes or slate.

Lifespan: 40–70 years (yes, really)
Durability: Excellent. A properly installed metal roof is nearly impervious to hail, snow, wind, fire, and just about anything else.

Metal Roofing in Minnesota Weather

Metal roofing performs exceptionally well in Minnesota’s challenging climate. Snow tends to slide off easily, reducing the risk of buildup and structural strain. Ice dams are rare due to the material’s smooth surface, which allows melting snow to drain more efficiently. While hail can occasionally cause minor denting, metal roofs are not susceptible to the granule loss that affects asphalt shingles. Most systems are also rated to withstand winds of up to 140 miles per hour, providing excellent protection during severe storms.

The Pros of Metal Roofing

Incredibly long lifespan
Great for snow and ice
Resistant to fire, rot, and pests
Energy-efficient in summer

The Cons of Metal Roofing

Higher upfront cost
May not fit every home’s aesthetic
Dents possible with very large hail

Which Roofing Material Is Right for You?

If you’re on a budget but want good protection, asphalt shingles are your best bet. They’re cost-effective, easy to repair, and widely available. Just make sure you choose a high-quality brand and have them installed by a reliable, local roofing company.

If you want natural beauty and don’t mind some upkeep, cedar shakes offer unbeatable character and natural insulation. They require more care but reward you with a truly standout roof.

If you want to invest once and be done for decades, metal roofing wins for durability and performance in Minnesota’s wild climate. Yes, it costs more upfront, but the payoff in longevity is significant.

Need a New Roof? Get in Touch with Us Today

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to roofing. It depends on your home, your budget, your goals, and how long you plan to stay. At Legacy Construction, we’ll walk you through all the options honestly and help you make the best choice for your situation. We’re not here to upsell. We’re here to help you get the best product for your home.