Here in Northern Ohio, we know a thing or two about unpredictable weather. One minute it’s sunny and 70, the next it’s blowing 40 mph winds off Lake Erie with a side of sleet. Our unique position near one of the Great Lakes means our homes take on a lot, especially our roofs. At Best Choice Roofing, we’re proud to serve the communities of Northern Ohio with top-tier roofing solutions designed for this wild and wonderful climate.
We offer four types of high-quality asphalt shingles to fit every home and every budget: three-tab, impact-resistant, premium, and architectural. Each one is built to perform, but even the toughest shingles need some love and knowledge to hold up against the challenges of our local weather.
Let’s break it down—why does Lake Erie’s climate matter for your roof? Simply put, it can make or break your shingles (literally). Understanding how your environment interacts with your roofing materials helps you make smarter decisions, lengthen the life of your roof, and protect your investment. So, let’s talk about the top 4 ways Lake Erie’s weather affects your asphalt shingle roof—and what you can do about it.
1. Lake Effect Snow = Roof Stress Overload
One of the biggest culprits in Northern Ohio? That classic lake effect snow. When cold air sweeps across the warmer waters of Lake Erie, it picks up moisture and dumps it as heavy snow on everything in its path, including your roof. That added weight stresses the structural integrity of your shingles and roof decking. Plus, snow melt followed by refreezing leads to ice dams, which can sneak water under your shingles and cause serious damage.
Pro Tip: Regularly remove excess snow and make sure your attic is correctly ventilated to reduce the risk of ice dams.
2. Strong Winds Can Tear It Up—Literally
Gusty winds are another hallmark of Lake Erie’s influence. Those powerful lake breezes can loosen or completely lift shingles, especially if they’re older or weren’t properly installed. This is where having impact-resistant or architectural shingles makes a huge difference—they’re built to withstand strong wind uplift and offer better overall durability.
Pro Tip: After any major windstorm, walk around your property and check for missing or curled shingles. Finding small issues early can save you from bigger repairs down the road.
3. Moisture + Humidity = Mold, Algae, and Mildew
With a lake nearby, humidity levels are consistently higher, especially during the warmer months. That excess moisture in the air can seep into your shingles, leading to moss, mildew, and algae growth, especially on shaded areas of your roof. Not only does this look bad, but it can degrade your shingles over time.
Pro Tip: Consider algae-resistant asphalt shingles, or make sure you’re cleaning your roof periodically with a gentle solution to prevent buildup.
4. Rapid Freeze-Thaw Cycles Can Crack Your Shingles
One day it’s 50°F and sunny, the next it’s 25°F and snowing. That constant back-and-forth is hard on everything, including your shingles. The water seeps into small cracks, freezes, expands, and causes even more cracking. Over time, this process can cause your shingles to buckle, curl, or break completely.
Pro Tip: Premium or architectural shingles tend to hold up better in these conditions thanks to their thicker, layered design. They provide better protection and last longer in this region’s harsh climate.
Protect Your Roof with the Right Team
Living near Lake Erie means embracing the beauty—and the chaos—of the elements. But when it comes to your roof, you don’t have to leave anything to chance. At Best Choice Roofing, we specialize in helping Northern Ohio homeowners pick the best roofing system for their unique needs. Whether it’s impact resistance, curb appeal, or long-term durability, we’ve got you covered (literally).
Ready for a roof that can handle the Lake Erie lifestyle? Give us a call today to schedule your free inspection and let’s build something strong, beautiful, and built to last.
