Published on: Jul 11, 2025

A Look at Different Residential Roofing Materials in Midwestern Climates

Picking a roof is not just about what looks good on the outside. In the Midwest, especially in places like Missouri, you have got to think bigger. Hail, heat, snow, sudden downpours, wild temperature swings… roofs here take a real beating.

If you are thinking about a new roof for your home in Greenwood or anywhere across the Kansas City metro, TK Roofing is here to help you weigh your options. Here is a breakdown of the most common roofing materials used in our region- what they do well, where they fall short, and which one might make sense for your house.

Asphalt Shingles: The Tried-and-True Pick

You see them everywhere for a reason. Asphalt shingles are affordable, easy to install, and come in a wide range of colors. Most homes around here have them, and they usually hold up well under normal conditions.

Pros:

Budget-friendly
Good fire resistance
Readily available
Easy to replace damaged sections

Good for: Homeowners looking for a solid, cost-effective roof without too much fuss.

Metal Roofing: Tough, Sleek, and Long-Lasting

Metal roofs have come a long way. They are not just for barns anymore. Whether it is standing seam panels or metal shingles, these roofs are catching on fast in Missouri.

Pros:

Highly durable, lasting for 40 plus years
Ideal for shedding snow and rain
Keeps heat at bay in summer which means energy saving
Resistant to fire and pets

Good for: It is suitable for homeowners who wish to invest in something long term and weather tough. It is even more important in areas with fluctuating temperatures and conditions.

Cedar Shake: Rustic Look, but High Maintenance

Cedar shake roofing definitely brings curb appeal. It has that warm, woodsy look that works well on historic or traditional homes. But it is not for everyone.

Pros:

Natural vibrant appearance
Safe insulation properties
Ages like fine wine if maintained properly

Good for: Homeowners after that classic wood look and willing to stay on top of maintenance.

Clay or Concrete Tiles: Durable but Heavy

These are more common in southwestern states, but you do see them in Missouri from time to time, especially on custom homes. They can really last—but they are heavy.

Pros:

Very long lifespan, up to a 100 years
Suitable for hot climate
Low maintenance so no trouble

Good for: This is suitable for those looking for long term premium roofing systems that can handle the structural weight.

What Works Best Here?

If you are in Missouri, you want something that can handle four seasons and all the unpredictability that comes with them. That means looking beyond just price or style, you want a roof that fits your home, your budget, and your tolerance for maintenance.

Need help choosing? At TK Roofing, we have installed just about every type of roof you can think of. We know how these materials actually hold up over time, because we come back to inspect and repair them years later. If you are not sure what makes the most sense for your place, give us a call. We are happy to talk through the options with you and this is what makes us the best roofing contractor in Greenwood, MO.