Skyridge Ricky's Guide: Best Roofing Materials for Utah Climate 2025
By Skyridge Ricky • January 20, 2025 • 10 min read
I've been sitting on Utah roofs for a long time now. And if there's one thing I've learned, it's that what works in Arizona or Florida doesn't mean a thing here. Our weather is mean in ways that catch people off guard.
We've got snow loads that can snap a weak rafter. Hailstorms that show up every summer like they were invited. And that UV exposure? Since we're higher up, the sun breaks down shingles way faster. I've seen 60-degree temperature jumps in one day in Park City. That makes a roof expand and contract like crazy!
When people ask me "Skyridge Ricky, what should I put on my house?"—I tell them it depends. It depends on where you live, what you want to spend, and how long you're staying. Let me walk you through what I've seen work (and fail) over the years.
Asphalt Shingles: What most neighbors use
Most of the roofs I sit on are asphalt shingles. They're popular because they don't cost a fortune and they look pretty good. But here's the truth: most crews use the cheap stuff to save a buck.
The thin 3-tab shingles you see at the big stores? They might last 15 years if you're lucky. I've seen them fail in 10. For Utah, you want architectural shingles. They're thicker, heavier, and can handle the wind.
The sweet spot is a solid architectural shingle with a 50-year warranty. It'll actually last you 25-30 years if you take care of it. One tip: check the wind rating. You want something rated for at least 110 mph. I've seen standard shingles fly off like paper in a Wasatch windstorm.
Professional Takeaways
- Skyridge Ricky's Tip: Skip the 3-tab and go architectural
- Look for 110+ mph wind ratings for the Wasatch Front
- Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles are a win for hail
- Budget $8k-$15k for a standard home with quality shingles
Metal Roofing: The "Forever" Roof
I love sitting on a metal roof. Why? Because snow slides right off them! In places like Heber or Park City, that snow shedding saves your house from massive weight and ice dams.
I've seen metal roofs from the 70s that were still bone dry underneath. They looked a little faded, but they were doing their job. You won't see an asphalt shingle do that after 50 years.
The big catch is the price. It's going to cost you 2 or 3 times more than shingles. But if you're staying in the house for 30 years, you'll never have to call a roofer again. That's a pretty good deal if you ask me.
Professional Takeaways
- Standing seam is the cleanest look and lasts longest
- Snow sheds fast—no more heavy ice blocks on your eaves
- Hail dents it, but it won't make it leak
- Expect to pay $18k-$30k for a typical setup
Skyridge Ricky's Key Takeaways for Utah Homeowners
Don't just pick what looks pretty. Pick what handles the snow. If you're in a high-wind area, spend the extra money on better fasteners. If you're in a hail-prone spot like Sandy or Draper, get those Class 4 shingles—it usually lowers your insurance bill too!
The bottom line? Your roof is the only thing between you and a very expensive indoor swimming pool. Don't cheap out on the underlayment or the flashing. That's where the leaks start, and that's where I see the most mistakes.
Professional Takeaways
- Invest in high-wind shingles if you live near the mountains
- Metal is best for heavy snow areas
- Always ask about the underlayment quality
- Get a pro to check your attic venting while they're at it
Wrapping it up
Picking a roof in Utah isn't like picking one anywhere else. Our sun is hotter, our snow is heavier, and our wind is faster. But any of these materials can work if the crew knows what they're doing.
If you aren't sure what you need, give the crew at Sky Ridge a call. They'll come out, take a look, and tell you exactly what I'd want on my own roof. No pressure, just real talk.
Take care of your roof, and I'll see you on the next one!
