Winston-Salem’s weather keeps homeowners on their toes. From hot, humid summers and sudden thunderstorms to cool, wet winters, your roof faces year-round challenges. Choosing the right roofing material is especially important here, especially if you own a home with a steep-sloped roof.
At Best Choice Roofing, we’ve helped countless Winston-Salem homeowners protect their properties with durable, attractive asphalt shingle roofing. We proudly offer three top-performing options: three-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and premium shingles. Each has unique advantages, but for steep-sloped roofs, one type stands out as the best fit for both performance and curb appeal.
In this guide, we’ll explain what is considered a steep slope roof, why slope matters when choosing materials, and which of our shingle types offers the greatest benefits for your home.
What Is Considered a Steep Slope Roof?
In roofing terms, “slope” refers to the angle or pitch of your roof. Steep slope roofing typically applies to roofs with a pitch of 3:12 or greater, meaning the roof rises at least 3 inches vertically for every 12 inches horizontally. Many Winston-Salem homes, especially those with traditional gabled or Victorian-inspired designs, feature steep-sloped roofs.
If you’re unsure about your roof’s slope, a roof slope calculator or a quick measurement can help. To learn how to calculate roof slope, you’ll need to measure the vertical rise over a 12-inch horizontal run. A professional inspection from Best Choice Roofing can also determine the exact slope, ensuring you choose the best materials.
Why Steep Slope Roofing Matters in Winston-Salem
Steep slopes shed water, snow, and debris more efficiently than low slopes, reducing the risk of leaks and pooling water. In a climate like Winston-Salem’s, where heavy rain and the occasional winter snowfall can hit unexpectedly, this is a major advantage.
However, steep-sloped roofs are more visible from the street, which means aesthetic appeal matters just as much as durability. Choosing the right material ensures your roof not only performs well but also boosts your home’s curb appeal.
Comparing Roofing Materials for Steep Slopes
Homeowners often ask us, What is the best roofing material for a steep slope roof? The answer depends on balancing durability, weather resistance, cost, and appearance. While there are different types of roof materials, including metal, slate, and tile, asphalt shingles remain one of the best roof materials for Winston-Salem homes thanks to their affordability, versatility, and wide range of styles.
When we compare roofing materials for steep-sloped homes, asphalt shingles consistently deliver excellent performance. They’re lightweight, making them easier to install on angled roofs, and they come in various profiles to enhance architectural style.
Best Asphalt Shingle Option for Steep-Sloped Roofs
At Best Choice Roofing, we offer three asphalt shingle types:
- Three-Tab Shingles – A cost-effective choice with a flat, uniform look. They perform well but are less dimensional and slightly less durable than higher-end options.
- Architectural Shingles – Also referred to as laminated or dimensional shingles, these offer a multi-layered look that mimics wood or slate, paired with better wind resistance and durability.
- Premium Shingles – Our top-tier option, providing maximum thickness, high-definition textures, superior impact resistance, and exceptional longevity.
For steep-sloped roofs in Winston-Salem, architectural shingles often offer the best balance of performance, value, and beauty. Here’s why:
- Enhanced Curb Appeal: The layered design creates shadows and depth, making your roof a standout feature, important for visible steep slopes.
- Improved Wind Resistance: Architectural shingles can withstand higher wind speeds, which is valuable during Winston-Salem’s severe summer storms.
- Longer Lifespan: With a heavier weight and multiple layers, they’re more durable than three-tab shingles while being more budget-friendly than premium shingles.
For homeowners who want the very best in both performance and prestige, premium shingles are also an excellent choice for steep slopes. They provide the most striking look and longest lifespan, but at a higher initial investment.
Steep Slope Installation Considerations
While steep slopes naturally shed water, they also present unique installation challenges. Working on a steep pitch requires specialized safety measures and proper fastening techniques to ensure long-term stability.
At Best Choice Roofing, our experienced team understands how slope affects installation, ventilation, and water runoff. We follow manufacturer guidelines for all materials and ensure your shingles are installed to maximize lifespan and weather resistance.
Why Choose Best Choice Roofing for Your Steep-Sloped Roof
We’re more than just a local contractor; we’re your partner in protecting your home. Our Winston-Salem team is trained to identify your roof’s unique needs and recommend the most suitable materials for your slope, budget, and style preferences. We also provide a free, no-obligation roof inspection, so you can make informed decisions without guesswork.
For homeowners wanting to explore other roofing materials beyond asphalt, we recommend checking out our expert guide: What Is the Best Roofing Material? on the main Best Choice Roofing website. It breaks down the pros and cons of various types of roofing materials so you can confidently compare roofing materials before making your investment.
Ready to Learn More?
If your Winston-Salem home has a steep-sloped roof, don’t leave its protection and beauty to chance. The right shingle, properly installed, can safeguard your home from the elements while enhancing its charm for decades.
Contact Best Choice Roofing today to schedule your free roof inspection. Our experts will calculate your roof slope, explain your options, and recommend the best roof material for your home’s design and local climate. Call now, and let us help you protect what matters most.
