As a homeowner, chances are that at some point, you need to think about a repair or replacement of your roof. This is especially true in a climate like Florida, with intense UV rays, hurricanes, high humidity, rain, or even hail. But what kind of roof is the best for you? You have the choice between several common roof materials that are used here in Florida:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Cement Tiles
- Clay Tiles
- Metal
The most common Roof Materials and their different Properties
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles (or “composite/composition shingles”) are probably the most popular roofing material, not only in Florida but all over the US. One of the reasons for that is certainly their relative affordability.
As the alternative name “composite” or “composition” shingles suggests, asphalt shingles are a composite product of various materials. Asphalt, of course, is one of them, but also mineral granules, fiberglass, or cellulose can be found in such a shingle.
There are different types of asphalt shingles, and we advise you to avoid the so-called “3-tab” or “strip” shingles. They are the basic asphalt shingle version and offer only a wind rating between 60 and 70 miles per hour. In other words, if the winds go beyond these 60-70 miles, you risk losing shingles off your roof.
As we have already mentioned, the Floridian climate includes the risk of hurricanes with high winds, and that’s when it’s important to choose the quality architecture variant if you go for an asphalt shingle roof. With the right shingle quality and proper installation, these quality architecture shingles can withstand winds of 130 mph and even more.
2. Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are stronger and more durable than asphalt shingles, which makes them an especially smart choice for the coastal areas of Florida with their strong winds, potential hail storms, etc.
Another benefit: Concrete tiles are fire resistant, which adds another layer of security to your home.
Despite their general durability, it should be noted that the enamel coating can wear off or incur minor damages (like chipping) after a few decades.
3. Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are an energy-efficient and eco-friendly choice and are quite common in the South of Florida. They are more durable (but also heavier) than asphalt shingles and do not absorb the sun’s heat as asphalt shingles do. In the Florida heat, this is a definite plus!
They are, however, less durable than concrete tiles. For example, you should not walk on a clay tile roof, or the tiles might break. It is also likely that you will find some cracking and chipping after a hail storm. In general, clay tiles are better suited for sloped than flat roofs.
It should also be noted that clay tiles are a pricier solution, especially as far as the initial investment is concerned.
4. Metal
Metal might not be the first material you think of for your home roof, but it is actually a classic among the common roofing materials! The costs are moderate, and you will get a strong and resilient cover for your roof! Metal roofing can withstand winds of up to 160 mph.
Since metal reflects the sun’s heat, it can also help keep the house cooler during the hot summer months.
Metal roofing is relatively low maintenance, but they require regular inspections to make sure that the protective coating of the meal is not damaged. As we all know, rust is metal’s enemy, and the coating is important to protect the roof from corrosion. Luckily, damages to such a coating (e.g., scratches) are relatively easy to take care of.
Bay to Bay Roofing – We will take care of your roof!
As we have already mentioned earlier: It is important to make the right choice of material for your roof based on your location, your budget, the climate, the build of your home, as well as style and structure considerations.
However, even the best roofing material requires professional installation and a certain amount of inspection and maintenance.
Therefore, let the experts at Bay to Bay Roofing take care of your roofing needs in Hillsborough County, Pasco County, Pinellas, and Hernando County. Contact us today for a quote or a free roof inspection!