Living in Show Low means your roof has to work harder than most. Between summer monsoons, heavy winter snow, high-altitude UV rays, and the occasional hailstorm, the material on top of your home matters a lot. If you’re thinking about a roof replacement, Show Low homeowners face two main options: asphalt shingles and metal roofing. The right choice depends on your budget, your plans for the home, and how much you want to think about your roof over the next few decades. Here’s how the two stack up.
How Show Low’s Climate Affects Your Roof
At nearly 6,400 feet of elevation, Show Low gets more UV exposure than most of Arizona’s lower desert cities. That UV breaks down roofing materials faster than you’d expect. Add in monsoon winds topping 60 mph, winter snow loads, and summer hailstorms, and your roof is dealing with a full spectrum of weather. That’s why material choice isn’t just about looks or price. It’s about how long your roof can hold up against everything this area throws at it.
Asphalt Shingles: The Familiar Choice
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the country, and for good reason. They’re affordable upfront, come in a wide variety of colors and styles, and most roofing contractors are experienced at installing them. For Show Low roofing projects on a tighter budget, shingles can be a practical option.
That said, they have limitations in this climate. Standard shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, but Show Low’s UV exposure speeds up granule loss and curling. High winds can lift shingles, and hail can crack them. If you’re planning to stay in your home for 10 to 15 years and want to keep costs lower today, shingles are a reasonable choice. Just know you’ll likely need another replacement sooner than with other materials.
Metal Roofing: Built for the Long Haul
Metal roofing is where things get interesting for Show Low homeowners. A quality metal roof lasts 40 to 70+ years, which means you may never need another roof replacement Show Low homeowners so often dread. Metal reflects solar heat, reducing cooling costs by up to 25%. It’s Class A fire-rated, resists winds up to 140 mph, and handles snow loads without the wear that breaks down shingles.
The upfront cost is higher than shingles, but the math changes when you think long-term. Less maintenance, fewer repairs, better energy savings, and a lifespan two to three times longer. Metal roofing is also environmentally friendly, often made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable at end of life. Today’s metal roofs come in styles that mimic shingles, tile, wood shake, and slate, so you don’t have to sacrifice curb appeal.
Side-by-Side: Quick Comparison
- Lifespan: Shingles 15–30 years | Metal 40–70+ years
- Upfront Cost: Shingles lower | Metal higher
- Lifetime Cost: Shingles higher (more replacements) | Metal lower
- Maintenance: Shingles moderate | Metal minimal
- Wind Resistance: Shingles up to 130 mph (impact-rated) | Metal up to 140 mph
- Energy Savings: Shingles minimal | Metal up to 25% cooling cost reduction
- Resale Value: Shingles standard | Metal adds more value
Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re on a tighter budget or planning to sell within the next decade, shingles can get the job done. But if you’re staying put and want a roof that handles Show Low’s weather for decades without constant upkeep, metal is the stronger long-term play. A good Show Low roofing contractor will look at your home’s structure and help you figure out what makes the most sense for your situation.
Get Expert Advice Before You Decide
The best way to choose between metal and shingles is to talk to someone who works with these materials every day. All Custom Exteriors is one of the most reliable roof replacement Show Low providers, with 24+ years of experience and a team that specializes in metal roofing and shingle installations. Their free consultations give you an honest breakdown of what each option looks like for your home, with no pressure. Whether you’re leaning toward metal or sticking with shingles, a conversation with a top-rated local team can help you decide.
