Florida homeowners, in particular, need a reliable and sturdy roof. The climate in Florida has a great impact on the materials used for residential roofing.
Before you begin, consider all the factors before making a decision.
Types of Roof Materials
There are many factors to consider when choosing a roof material: the expected lifespan, price, roof maintenance needs, and aesthetics. There are many options available to homeowners.
This is a list of the top roof materials in Florida.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for roofing due to their low cost and easy maintenance. There are many different colors and styles, and some even come with hail-resistant options. The quality ranges from the most affordable three-tab shingles to the more expensive dimensional shingles.
Asphalt shingles, depending on their quality, may not last as long as other roof materials. They can typically last 15–30 years, depending on factors like sun exposure and storm damage. Asphalt shingles can be damaged by wind, so you should have your roof inspected regularly and make sure any repairs or installation of asphalt shingles are done correctly.
Pros
- Affordability
- Easy installation and repair
- There are many options when it comes to colors and styles.
Cons
- Life expectancy is often shorter.
- Florida’s high wind speeds may require reinforcement.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are becoming more popular in Florida. It provides excellent protection from the elements, including hail and strong wind. The roofs can last up to 50 or more years, which is a lot longer than asphalt shingle roofing.
Metal roofs reflect heat from the sun, which makes them excellent for energy efficiency.
Pros
- The lightweight metal is not supported by additional supports.
- Long-term life expectancy
- Color and style options
- Energy efficient
- Fire-resistant
- Recycling, at the end of its life cycle
Cons
- Noise can be a problem if the system is not installed correctly.
- Asphalt shingles are more expensive.
- Some roofers are not familiar with working on metal roofs.
Tile Roofs
Clay tiles have a classic appearance with their terracotta color. They are also heat-resistant and durable, lasting up to 50 years when properly cared for.
Tiles can be heavy and difficult to install. Therefore, reinforcements are often needed to support them over time. The moss that builds up over time can also make them more difficult to maintain than asphalt shingles. Tile roofs are more expensive than asphalt, but they offer better protection from extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes.
Pros
- Long-term life expectancy
- Environmentally friendly
- Heat- and wind-resistant
- It is good for areas where there are salt sprays from the Gulf or ocean.
Cons
- The roof structure should be strong enough to support heavy loads.
- Breakage is possible.
- Repairing this option is more difficult than the other options.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are becoming more popular in Florida. They can be constructed from a variety of materials. You can install solar panels on a flat roof to improve energy efficiency. It also requires less maintenance.
Pros
- Energy efficient
- Maintenance is less required.
- Cost-effective
Cons
- It is important to conduct regular inspections in order to detect any damages or leaks that may have occurred over time.
- If not installed correctly, the wind-resistant properties of the roof will be reduced.
- Existing roofs with pitched pitches are not an option.
This post was written by a roofing specialist at All Star Roofing. If you are looking for Tampa roofing contractors, then you’re in luck. We are a family-owned Pinellas county roofing business, striving to be the best in our industry. Our family has been in the Tampa Bay area for over 60 years, and our objective has always been to provide roofing services at a fast, reliable, and competitive rate. All Star has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
