Are you looking to upgrade your Florida home’s roofing system? Choosing the right roofing shingle can be daunting, as numerous types are available in the market. In this blog, we will discuss selecting the best roofing shingles for Florida homes so that you can make a well-informed decision. In addition, we will look into the different types of roofing shingles available, factors to consider when choosing the best roofing shingle, and tips on choosing the right color for your home.
What Are Roofing Shingles?
Roofing shingles are materials used to cover a roof structure and come in various shapes, sizes, styles, materials, and colors.
4 Types of Roofing Shingles Available
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are roofing materials made from a base layer of fiberglass or organic material (like paper or wood) coated with asphalt and then topped with mineral granules. They are available in various colors and styles, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles
- They’re affordable: Asphalt shingles are typically one of the more budget-friendly roofing options.
- They’re easy to install: Most asphalt shingles can be installed by DIYers or by hiring a professional roofer.
- They last a long time: Asphalt shingles can last 20-30 years with proper installation and maintenance.
- They offer good protection against the weather: Asphalt shingles protect homes against wind, sun, and rain damage.
Cons of Asphalt Shingles
- They’re not as durable as other materials: Although asphalt shingles can last 20-30 years, they’re not as durable as other roofing materials like metal or tile.
- They’re not environmentally friendly: Asphalt shingles aren’t considered an environmentally friendly option because they’re made from petroleum products.
- They can be susceptible to damage from severe weather: If asphalt shingles are damaged by high winds or flying debris during a storm, they will need to be repaired or replaced.
- They can be difficult to repair: If only a few asphalt shingles are damaged, they can be replaced relatively easily. However, a repair can be tricky (and expensive) if the damage is widespread.
Metal Roofing
Another popular option is a metal roof. Metal roofs are durable and can last for decades, but they are better choices for some homes.
Pros of Metal Roofs
- Longevity. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years longer than most other roofs. A metal roof may be a good investment if you stay in your home for the long haul.
- Durability. Metal roofs can withstand high winds and resist fire, hail, and rot.
- Energy efficiency. Metal roofs reflect heat, which helps keep your home cooler in the months.
- Low maintenance. Metal roofs don’t require much maintenance, and they’re not susceptible to shingle granules like asphalt roofs. A little bit of soap and water is all you need to keep your metal roof clean.
Cons of Metal Roofs
- Cost. Metal roofs generally cost more than other types of roofs upfront. However, their longevity often offsets the higher initial cost over time.
- Noise level. It can be quite loud inside the home when it rains or hails on a metal roof. This is something to keep in mind if you live in an area with a lot of rain or have sensitive hearing.
- Installation difficulty. Metal roofs can be challenging to install, so hiring a qualified contractor with experience installing this type of roofing material is essential.
Tile Shingles
Tile shingles are a popular roofing option in Florida, thanks to their durability and resistance to high winds. However, if you’re considering installing tile shingles in your home, here are a few things you need to know first.
Pros of Tile Shingles
- They’re durable, low-maintenance, and fire-resistant.
- They also reflect heat well, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer months.
- Perhaps the biggest advantage of tile shingles is that they can withstand winds of up to 120 miles per hour—a valuable asset in hurricane-prone Florida.
Cons of Tile Shingles
- Tile shingles are one of the more expensive roofing options available.
- They’re also heavy, so your home’s structure will need to support the additional weight.
- Tile shingles can break if something falls on them or hail hits them hard enough.
Wood Shake Shingles
If you’ve ever driven through a neighborhood and admired the charming, rustic look of a home with wood shake shingles, then you might be wondering what exactly wood shake shingles are and if they would be a good fit for your Florida home. Here are the pros and cons:
Pros of Wood Shake Shingles
- Wood shakes offer superior protection from hurricane-force winds. This is because wood is an extremely strong material and can withstand high winds better than most other roofing materials.
- Wood shakes also have a natural resistance to fire, making them a safer choice for homes in fire-prone areas.
Cons of Wood Shake Shingles
- Wood shakes are one of the more expensive roofing materials on the market and require more maintenance than other options.
- They must be treated with a weatherproof sealant every few years to prevent them from rotting or warping in the Florida humidity.
- You’ll also need to have your wood shake roof regularly inspected by a professional to ensure it is in good condition.
Choosing the Right Color
Your roof should complement the other exterior design elements and blend in with its surroundings.
You’ll also want to think about how your roof color will look in different types of light, from direct sunlight to moonlight. Some colors may fade or change in appearance when exposed to UV rays from the sun. Make sure you choose a color that won’t fade quickly or show dirt easily.
Finally, consider how your roof’s color will affect your home’s energy efficiency. Darker colors will absorb more heat, which can cause your home to be warmer in the summer months and increase your energy costs. Conversely, light-colored shingles will reflect the sun’s rays, helping to keep your home cooler and reduce your cooling bills.
Final Thoughts
When deciding which type of roofing material is right for your Florida home, there are many factors to consider. Metal roofs offer superior protection from hurricane-force winds but can be noisy in the rain. Tile shingles are popular for their durability and fire resistance but can be expensive. Wood shakes offer natural protection from the elements and a rustic aesthetic but require more maintenance than other options.
Different materials offer their benefits and drawbacks, so make sure you research before making a final choice. Then, once you’ve chosen the right material for your home, have it professionally installed to ensure it will last for years.
