Choosing between steel vs. asphalt roofing is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your North Dakota home. Hailstorms hit our state hard every year. In fact, North Dakota averages about 225 hail reports annually. That means your roof needs to be ready.
So which roofing material holds up better against hail? Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your Jamestown home.
Why Hail Protection Matters in North Dakota
North Dakota ranks third in the nation for hail damage risk. Our state sees about $9.2 million in hail-related damage each year. And we’ve seen some truly devastating storms.
Back in 2001, baseball-sized hail hammered the Bismarck-Mandan area. That single storm caused $260 million in damage. The largest hailstone ever recorded in North Dakota measured five inches across. That’s bigger than a softball!
These numbers show why your roofing choice matters. A good roof stands between your family and serious property damage.
How Asphalt Shingles Handle Hail
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in America. About 75% of homes use them. They’re affordable and come in many colors and styles.
However, asphalt shingles have some weak points when it comes to hail:
- Hail knocks off the protective granules that cover each shingle
- Once granules are gone, the shingle breaks down faster
- Even small hail can cause damage you might not see right away
- Older shingles are more likely to crack or break during storms
A recent study from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety found something surprising. Repeated exposure to smaller hailstones makes asphalt shingles about ten times more likely to suffer damage from future storms. This means even “minor” hail events add up over time.
That said, impact-resistant asphalt shingles do exist. These upgraded shingles use reinforced materials to better handle hail impacts. They cost more but offer better protection than standard options.
How Steel Roofing Stands Up to Hail
Steel roofing has grown popular in North Dakota for good reason. The demand for metal roofing jumped 35% from 2024 to 2025 across the country. Homeowners in storm-prone areas are leading this trend.
Here’s how steel roofs perform against hail:
- Most steel roofs resist dents from hail smaller than two inches
- The interlocking panels on standing seam roofs prevent leaks
- Even if steel dents, it rarely lets water through
- Steel roofs carry Class 4 impact ratings—the highest available
- Many steel roofs are warranted against hail up to 2.5 inches
Steel thickness matters too. Roofs made from 26-gauge or thicker steel handle hail better than thinner options. Also, corrugated and ribbed panels hide minor dents better than flat panels.
Steel vs. Asphalt Roofing: A Side-by-Side Look
Let’s compare these two options across several important factors:
Lifespan
- Asphalt shingles: 20-30 years
- Steel roofing: 40-70 years
Hail Resistance
- Asphalt shingles: Moderate (better with impact-resistant upgrades)
- Steel roofing: Excellent (may show cosmetic dents but maintains protection)
Wind Resistance
- Asphalt shingles: Can lift or blow off in high winds
- Steel roofing: Rated for winds up to 120-140 mph
Upfront Cost
- Asphalt shingles: Lower initial investment
- Steel roofing: Higher upfront cost
Long-Term Value
- Asphalt shingles: May need replacement 2-3 times over steel’s lifespan
- Steel roofing: One installation often lasts a lifetime
Which Roof Is Right for Your Jamestown Home?
Your best choice depends on your situation. Consider these factors:
Choose asphalt shingles if:
- You need a budget-friendly option right now
- You plan to sell your home in the next few years
- Your home has complex roof lines that make metal harder to install
Choose steel roofing if:
- You want maximum hail protection
- You plan to stay in your home long-term
- You want lower maintenance and fewer repairs
- You own a pole barn, shop, or agricultural building
Many North Dakota homeowners find that steel roofing pays for itself over time. You’ll spend less on repairs and won’t face a full roof replacement as often.
Our Steel Roofing Options
At Vetter Construction, we install several types of steel roofing to fit different needs and budgets:
Steel Shingles give you the classic look of traditional shingles with the strength of metal. They resist wind, hail, and fire while boosting your home’s curb appeal.
Standing Seam Steel offers a sleek, modern look with unmatched durability. The interlocking panels prevent leaks and resist corrosion. This style works great for both homes and commercial buildings.
Sheet Steel Roofing provides strong, weather-resistant coverage for barns, shops, and other structures. It’s a practical choice that lasts for decades.
We also install quality asphalt shingles for homeowners who prefer this classic option.
Trust Local Experts Who Know North Dakota Weather
We’ve been building and offering roofing services in the Jamestown area for over 25 years. We understand what North Dakota weather throws at our homes. After the summer windstorm hit Jamestown, our crews went out to help neighbors patch damaged roofs and prevent leaks—at no charge.
That’s the kind of service you get from a locally owned company that treats customers like neighbors.
Whether you choose steel vs. asphalt roofing, make sure you work with experienced installers. Proper installation matters just as much as the materials you pick.
Get Your Free Roofing Consultation
Ready to protect your home from North Dakota hail? We’re here to help you choose the right roofing solution for your needs and budget.
Contact Vetter Construction today to schedule your free consultation. Call us at (701) 320-1990 or stop by our Jamestown office. We’ll assess your current roof and walk you through all your options.