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A roof's ability to handle snow depends on its strength and the snow's weight, as wet snow is much heavier than dry, fluffy snow. While designs in snowy regions often allow for 35 to 50 pounds per square foot, a general guideline is that a typical roof can withstand about four feet of fresh snow, two feet of packed snow, or just one inch of ice. Factors like the roof's age, slope, and support structure also affect its capacity; newer, sloped roofs generally hold more weight than older, flat ones. Ice and ice dams add significant, dangerous weight. Because capacity varies, it is best to contact a professional roofing contractor or the original builder to determine the maximum snow load for your specific home.

Asphalt roofs provide better insulation than metal roofs, but that doesn’t always mean that asphalt roofs are better for reducing heating and cooling bills. In hotter climates, metal roofs will usually be better for home efficiency because the material reflects more sunlight and reduces solar heat gain. In colder climates, asphalt roofs are sometimes superior in terms of efficiency because they introduce more solar heat gain to your home and have greater insulating capabilities. However, metal roofs installed with an air gap can provide similar levels of insulation.

A gable roof costs between $13,000 and $30,000, depending on the size of your roof, the materials you use, and the type of gable roof you install. If you’re building a gable roof for new construction or as part of a major home remodel, your pricing will also depend on the type of roof trusses you use, how accessible your property is, and some other factors.

The average cost to winterize a house is about $250, but it can range from $65 to $1,000 depending on the type of work that needs to be done. For homeowners that are experienced DIYers, it can save quite a bit on costs. However, you shouldn’t attempt tasks you aren’t familiar with or are potentially dangerous.