Unless you custom built your home when you purchased it, you likely accepted the roof that came as part of the package. Now that it’s time to replace the roof, you’ve got options! Replacing with the same materials is one of them, but not the only. From increased durability, to better energy efficiency, to higher resale value, to giving your home a whole new vibe, there are many reasons why people consider changing up their roofing materials when it’s time for roof replacement. Here’s a guide to the most popular roofing options for Florida homes and how the different types of roofing materials stack up:

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Shingles are a type of roofing, but types of shingle materials within this category are vast and vary greatly. There are many different materials that a shingle can be made of, however the asphalt shingle tends to be a popular style/material combo choice. Affordability tends to be the driving factor that makes these asphalt shingles a popular choice. While generally the most affordable, they aren’t the most durable option. Under heavy Florida winds, asphalt shingles can easily become damaged or blown off. Overall, you can expect asphalt shingles to last 15-20 before a full replacement becomes a consideration again.

Within the category of asphalt shingles, there are more choices to make. Beyond just the aesthetic considerations, asphalt shingles are available in different constructions. Standard 3-tab and architectural asphalt shingles are two of the most popular. 3-tab shingles are the most common and easiest to install – and they are also the most common and easiest to lift off and become damaged in a storm. Architectural asphalt shingles (aka, laminate shingles, dimensional shingles) offer the lower cost of an asphalt shingle but in a construction style that may be less likely to come off in high winds.

Metal Roofing 

Metal roofing materials can mimic the look of other types of roof tiles. You may have seen metal roofs and not even noticed. Metal is a popular option for Florida homes because of its durability. Metal roofing material can withstand winds up to 160 mph and better resists damage from hail and falling or flying objects. Metal roofing has risen sharply in popularity with the rustic farmhouse design trending upward. Metal roofing is more expensive – but with good reason. Depending on the quality of material and installation, a metal roof can last 40-70 years.

Tile Roof

Red tile roofs offer the quintessential Florida home style. While many people assume these tile roofs are made of clay, much of what you’re seeing are likely made of concrete. The most common type of tile roof today is made from colored concrete that can last up to 50 years. While significantly less costly than tile, concrete tiles don’t slack in other categories of durability, longevity, or aesthetics. As a building material, concrete is less expensive to produce than fired clay tile, while also providing robust protection against Florida winds and weather. Compared with shingle roofs, tile roofs are heavy and require a specialized set of skills to install. They’re more expensive, but also last longer and provide more protection.

The number of options and considerations when choosing roofing materials can easily become overwhelming. Our expert architectural team works with you to drill down into real potential options and possibilities for your exact home. Taking into consideration budget, stylistic preference, location, building codes, existing construction and numerous other factors, we present to you a set of options along with pros and cons of each so that you can make confident decisions about your investment. Expert consultation is a significant part of the value we provide as your roofing partner. We look forward to working with you!