We considered metal roofing too, but ended up going with architectural shingles instead. Noise was definitely a factor for us—our master bedroom is right under the roofline, and I'm a pretty light sleeper. We visited a friend's house during a storm to test it out, and yeah, it was louder than I expected. Not terrible, but noticeable enough to make me hesitate.
Cost-wise, metal was tempting because of the durability and lower maintenance, but the upfront price difference was pretty steep. We figured we'd rather put that extra money into other upgrades around the house. Plus, our contractor mentioned that high-quality shingles these days can last 25-30 years anyway, so we felt comfortable with that compromise.
Interesting point about snow sliding off easily though... hadn't really thought about that. We don't get tons of snow here, but enough that it could be a factor. Might have to rethink our landscaping plans near the house now, haha.
Anyway, just thought I'd share our experience since we went through similar considerations. Good luck deciding—roofing choices are tougher than they seem!
"Noise was definitely a factor for us—our master bedroom is right under the roofline, and I'm a pretty light sleeper."
I completely understand your hesitation about the noise factor. We recently worked on a project where the homeowners opted for metal roofing, and while they loved the aesthetics and durability, they ended up investing quite a bit extra into insulation and soundproofing materials to mitigate the noise. It helped significantly, but of course, it added to the already higher upfront cost.
Another point worth considering is the visual impact. Metal roofs can have a sleek, modern look, but depending on your home's architectural style, shingles might blend better with the overall design. Architectural shingles today come in a wide range of colors and textures, and they can really enhance curb appeal.
As for snow sliding off, it's definitely something to keep in mind—especially if you have delicate landscaping or walkways nearby. I've seen some clever landscaping solutions like shrubs or hedges strategically placed to catch or slow falling snow... just something else to think about as you finalize your plans.
Metal roofs do have their perks, but honestly, if noise is a big concern, you might want to reconsider. Even with extra insulation, heavy rain or hail can still sound pretty intense—especially if you're sensitive to noise already.
Also, about the snow sliding off... shrubs or hedges might help somewhat, but keep in mind that a heavy snowfall sliding down fast can damage plants pretty easily. I've seen it happen to my neighbor's boxwoods last winter—they got flattened after one big storm. Snow guards can help slow things down, though they aren't always the prettiest solution.
Have you looked into recycled composite shingles at all? They're durable, quiet during storms, and environmentally friendly. Plus, they come in styles that mimic slate or cedar shakes really convincingly. Might be worth checking out if you're open to alternatives.
Metal roofs aren't always as noisy as people think, but yeah... if you're already sensitive to noise, heavy rain or hail can definitely be noticeable. Had a client once who insisted on metal roofing because of durability, but after the first storm, he joked that it sounded like a drum solo up there. He did eventually get used to it, though.
About the snow sliding off—you're right, shrubs alone won't cut it. I've seen some pretty sad-looking bushes after a big snowfall. Snow guards are effective, but personally, I think they look a bit clunky. If aesthetics matter to you (and let's be honest, they usually do), you might want to consider something else.
Composite shingles are actually a solid suggestion. They're quiet, durable, and pretty convincing visually. Another option I'd throw out there is architectural asphalt shingles—especially if budget is a factor. They're affordable, come in tons of colors and styles, and handle weather surprisingly well. Installation is straightforward too:
1. Strip off your old roof completely (don't layer new shingles over old ones—trust me on this).
2. Check decking for rot or damage and replace any compromised sections.
3. Install quality underlayment and ice/water shield in valleys and edges.
4. Lay down your shingles properly with adequate ventilation (ridge vents or soffit vents).
5. Finish with proper flashing around chimneys and skylights to avoid leaks down the road.
I've overseen plenty of roof replacements, and honestly, proper installation matters more than anything else when it comes to leaks or durability issues. A well-installed asphalt roof can easily last 25-30 years without headaches.
Whatever you choose, just don't skimp on installation quality or materials—cutting corners now usually means paying double later (speaking from experience here...).
Metal roofs can actually look pretty sleek if you choose the right style and color—especially standing seam. Snow guards might seem clunky at first, but I've seen some really subtle designs that blend right in. And honestly, composite shingles can fade and lose their charm quicker than you'd think. If you're after longevity and aesthetics, don't dismiss metal too quickly... just invest in good insulation and noise won't be a dealbreaker.
