If you live in Amarillo or anywhere across the Texas Panhandle, you know hail isn’t a matter of if, but when. One day your roof looks fine. The next, it’s peppered with dents, cracks, or missing shingles after a brutal spring storm rolled through.
So when it’s time to replace or repair your roof, the question becomes: should you go with traditional asphalt shingles or invest in metal roofing? And more importantly, which one actually holds up better after hail?
Let’s break it down.
How Hail Affects Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in residential roofing in Amarillo and across the U.S. They’re affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors and styles. But when hail hits, shingles don’t always hold their ground.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Bruising and cracking: Hailstones can crack or bruise the surface of shingles, which exposes the underlying layers to water damage.
- Granule loss: The protective granules on top of shingles get knocked off during impact, leaving the asphalt vulnerable to UV rays and weathering.
- Shorter lifespan: Even minor hail damage can shorten the life of your shingle roof by several years if not addressed quickly.
While quality shingles with an impact rating can handle smaller hail, larger stones (think golf ball size or bigger) often cause significant damage. That means more frequent repairs or full replacements over time.
How Metal Roofing Handles Hail
Metal roofing has become increasingly popular in hail-prone areas like the Texas Panhandle, and for good reason. Metal roofs are known for their durability, and many homeowners and business owners are making the switch after dealing with repeated shingle damage.
Here’s why metal performs better:
- Dent resistance: Metal roofs, especially those made from steel or aluminum, can withstand hail impact much better than shingles. Some may show cosmetic dents, but the roof’s integrity stays intact.
- Longer lifespan: A metal roof can last 40 to 70 years, compared to 15 to 25 years for asphalt shingles.
- Less maintenance: After a hailstorm, metal roofs typically require fewer repairs. They don’t crack or lose protective layers the way shingles do.
- Better protection: Metal roofing systems often include a waterproof underlayment and interlocking panels that add an extra layer of defense against leaks.
If you’re working with a roofing contractor Amarillo homeowners trust, they’ll likely recommend metal if you’re in a high-hail zone and want a roof that lasts.
Cost vs. Long-Term Value
Yes, metal roofing costs more upfront. Depending on the size and complexity of your roof, you might pay two to three times what you’d spend on shingles. But here’s the thing: you get what you pay for.
When you factor in:
- Fewer repairs after storms
- Lower insurance premiums in some cases
- Energy savings from reflective metal surfaces
- A roof that could outlast your mortgage
The long-term value of metal becomes clear. Plus, companies like All Star Sheet Metal & Roofing, LLC offer in-house metal fabrication, which means custom solutions built right here in Amarillo.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term and want a roof that can handle the Panhandle’s unpredictable weather, metal roofing is the smarter investment. It’s especially worth considering if you’ve already replaced your roof once due to hail damage.
On the other hand, if budget is your main concern and you’re okay with potential repairs down the road, asphalt shingles are still a solid option. Just make sure you choose impact-resistant shingles and work with an experienced Amarillo roofing company that knows how to install them correctly.
Protect Your Home with the Right Roof
Hail happens. But the roof you choose doesn’t have to leave you stressed every storm season. Whether you’re leaning toward metal or shingles, the key is working with a trusted local team that understands the Texas Panhandle climate and builds roofs that last.
All Star Sheet Metal & Roofing, LLC has been serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland, and surrounding areas for three generations. From residential roofing to commercial roof repair in Amarillo, sheet metal Amarillo craftsmanship, and window installation Amarillo Texas residents rely on, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to talk about your roof? Contact us today for a free estimate and let’s build something that stands strong, storm after storm.