Roofing Materials for Denver’s Altitude & UV Exposure: A 2025 Guide

Denver is situated at a high altitude of around 5,280 feet above sea level, which brings in many challenges for homeowners. The roof is exposed to harsh weather like thunderstorms and strong winds. On top of this, intense UV exposure in summer further leads to roof deterioration. That’s why it’s important to choose the best roofing materials for Denver’s altitude that can easily withstand all environmental rigors. 

Don’t know what options are available? This article is your complete guide to choosing the best roofing materials, perfect for Denver weather. Let’s start!

What are the Best Roofing Materials for Denver High Altitude? 

Many roofing materials available for Denver weather and location have incredible roof preservation features. Here’s an overview of a few of those:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the best roofing materials that you can consider for your Denver home. They consist of fiberglass, tar, and asphalt granules that sit on a fiberglass mat, contributing to their durability. 

These shingles reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This is particularly good in Denver as during summer, the temperature can reach an average high of around 88°F in July. In addition, Class 4 impact-resistant asphalt shingles can withstand hail storms and winds without shaking. 

They are budget-friendly and often come with a 25 to 30-year warranty. The best part is that they come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can pick the one that suits your aesthetic preferences. 

Tile 

If you want to give your home a Mediterranean or Spanish flair without compromising on longevity, tile is one of the best roofing materials. Tiles are made of recyclable materials like terracotta and concrete. They are fireproof, which ensures the safety of your loved ones in any unpredictable situation. 

Low moisture absorption is another unique feature of tile roofs that naturally makes them resistant to rot. Typically, these roofs have a longer lifespan, lasting for around 50 years, even in the harsh Denver weather. 

You don’t have to worry about temperature extremes, as tile roofs provide insulation and keep your home’s insides comfortable throughout the year. However, they are a bit pricey, which can dent your budget. They are also quite heavy, so you need proper structural reinforcement to prevent damage. 

Metal Roof 

Metal roofs are often made of aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc. They are known for their incredible strength and sleek look. With a lifespan of over 60 years, they eliminate the risk of leaks and damage. 

What truly makes them stand out is that they reflect solar or UV radiation. Therefore, your home stays cool and comfortable throughout the summer. So your HVAC doesn’t have to work hard to maintain a cozy atmosphere. 

Metal roofs are lightweight yet strong, and you don’t need any additional support structures underneath them. Overall, maintenance is easy; occasional cleaning is enough to keep them pristine! 

Tips to Choose the Best Roofing Materials for Denver High Altitude 

The best roofing material options that you can explore during your Denver home renovation or construction include metal, asphalt shingles, and tile. Here are some factors that you should consider when choosing any of them: 

Budget 

While it’s tempting to opt for the most expensive and fancy roofing material, you should be very mindful of your budget. Choose a durable material that also fits within your budget. 

Asphalt shingles and metal are both suitable options in this regard, as they are pretty affordable. For instance, the average cost of a new asphalt shingle roof in Denver is around $15,000. 

Metal roofing costs anywhere between $7,000 and $37,800. Contrary to these best roofing materials, tiles are quite expensive. 

Energy Efficiency

Another thing that you should pay attention to when choosing the best roofing materials is energy efficiency. Since Denver is present at a high altitude, homes face high UV exposure. 

This translates to extreme heat and increased temperatures inside. As a result, your HVAC consumes way more energy to keep the home cool, leading to high energy bills. 

However, when you invest in reflective materials, including metal, there’s no heat absorption. They push sunlight and heat away from your building so your home stays cooler, reducing overall energy costs. 

Aesthetic Appeal 

Make sure the roofing material you pick matches your home’s architectural style. For instance, if your home has a unique, classy look, you can opt for asphalt shingles or tiles. However, for a modern appearance, you should go with a metal roof. 

Whatever material you choose, make sure its color matches the hues of your house. This gives your place a distinct look, making it stand out among neighbors while also offering excellent functionality. 

Durability 

Roofs are big investments, so you should ensure you are making the right choice. We suggest paying attention to the lifespan of each roofing material and picking the one that lasts for years without any damage. Otherwise, you’ll end up with frequent leaks and, even worse, full roof replacement.

However, know that the best roofing materials only perform well when installed correctly. That’s why you should avoid doing DIY installation and hire a credible roofer who maximizes the warranty protection offered by manufacturers. 

FAQs 

How often should Denver homeowners conduct roof maintenance? 

Denver homeowners should conduct roof maintenance twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Carefully assess the roof for damage or wear and tear and get it fixed right away to avoid any unfortunate incident. 

What are the cons of a metal roof? 

Some cons of a metal roof include limited color options, noise during rain, and the formation of rust. 

Which roofing material might not be suitable for Denver homes? 

Wooden shingles might not be suitable for Denver homes because of their susceptibility to fire. They are also prone to mold, mildew, and rot, which can be a nuisance. 

Conclusion 

Finding the best roofing materials for your Denver home can be quite challenging. Common options include slate, tiles, metal, and asphalt shingles. Looking for a reliable roofing contractor in Denver? 303 Roofer is the ideal option. Get in touch with us today to enjoy smooth and affordable roof installation!