Winter in East Tennessee is a mix of light snows, cold rain, and quick refreezes. Knoxville averages about 4.6 inches of snow a year, plus around 68 nights that drop to 32°F or colder. That does not sound like much, until you add hills, shade, wind, and those long cold snaps that hang around for days.
Go a little higher in elevation and the story shifts. The Tri Cities area averages about 9.2 inches of snow a year with about 94 nights at or below 32°F. Up in the Smokies, Newfound Gap averages about 69 inches of snow during the winter season. A roof that does fine in town can get tested hard in the mountains.
Why Metal Roofing Fits East Tennessee Winters
We like metal roofing for winter because it handles freeze and thaw well and sheds water fast. You get large panels instead of lots of small pieces. That matters when ice forms, melts, and refreezes again.
A standing seam roof takes that idea a step further. The seams are raised and the fasteners are concealed, so you have fewer exposed points for water to work on over time. In winter, that can be a big deal. Snow sits. Sun hits one area. Water runs. Then temperatures drop and everything locks back up.
Metal also tends to keep its shape through temperature swings. That helps when nights go below freezing and afternoons climb back above it. Those cycles are normal around here, and they are rough on any roof.
The Winter Tradeoffs People Miss With Metal
Metal roofs can shed snow faster than shingles. That is good for the roof surface, but you still have to think about where that snow goes.
If you have walkways, a driveway, or a patio under a roof edge, sliding snow and ice can become a hazard. Industry guidance points out that pitched, slick roof surfaces can release snow in a sudden slide, so snow retention is often added to control it.
We look at your roof pitch, layout, and the spots people use every day. Then we talk through options like snow guards or retention systems where they make sense. You get a plan that fits your home, not a one size fits all approach.
Ice Dams Are A House Problem As Much As A Roof Problem
Ice dams can happen after heavy snow, followed by daytime melting and overnight refreezing. Over repeated melt and freeze cycles, water can work under shingles and leak into the home.
The root cause is usually heat getting to the roof deck. Building science research points to common drivers like low insulation, thermal bridging, air leaks into the attic, and heat sources in the attic.
Metal roofing can help shed snow, which can reduce the conditions that lead to damming at the edge. Still, attic air sealing, insulation, and ventilation matter. If you are getting ice dam leaks, we usually recommend looking at the full system, not just the roof covering.
What To Look For After Snow Or Ice
After a winter event, a quick visual check can tell you a lot. Stay on the ground. If something looks off, call a roofing contractor.
Here are a few issues we want you to watch for:
- Bent or loose flashing around chimneys, valleys, and walls.
- Dented gutters or downspouts from sliding ice.
- Fast drips at the eaves during a thaw, then stains on ceilings later.
- Loose pipe boots, vent covers, or ridge cap pieces after wind and ice.
If you see water staining indoors, do not wait. Ice dam leaks can travel before they show up on drywall.
Comparing Asphalt And Metal Before You Replace
A lot of homeowners call us because they are ready for a new roof and they want real talk on asphalt versus metal. That is a smart way to shop.
Asphalt shingles usually cost less up front. They can also be a solid fit if your roof has a lot of cut up sections and you want a more traditional look. Metal roofing costs more up front in most cases, but it can pay you back in longevity, lower maintenance, and strong winter performance.
We install both, and we will explain the pros and cons in plain language. If you want to see how the process works from quote to clean up, review our roofing process and what to expect.
Talk With A Roofing Company That Works Here
We are a local roofing company based in Knoxville, and our owner Brad stays hands on from the first visit through the final check. If you are considering metal roofing in Knoxville, TN, we can price out asphalt and metal side by side and walk you through what changes on your house.
To learn more about panel styles, finishes, and a standing seam roof, start with our metal roof options. If you are ready to compare materials for your next roof, contact Mountain View Exteriors and we will set up a straightforward quote.