Published: 03/09/2021

There are a myriad of roofing materials on the market, and each one has its strengths. However, only a few of them are truly suitable for the unique environment present in Florida. Heaving winds, hostile storms, heavy rains, and high humidity all combine to put roofs to the test.

That’s why here at AKVM, we concentrate on offering 3 main types of roofing materials: asphalt roofs, metal roofs, and tile roofs. Let’s look into why these particular choices are the most robust options for Floridians.

Asphalt Roofs

Roofs clad with asphalt shingles are common all throughout the United States. This is because they offer a good balance of affordability and longevity (up to 20 years).

However, it’s important to note that in Florida’s moist conditions, it’s specifically asphalt shingles treated with algicides that are the best choice. This quality helps the roof resist any algal growth that can occur due to moisture buildup. Algae can eventually cause the protective coatings of asphalt shingles to wear down, making them vulnerable to drying out and weakening.

Among asphalt shingles, there are 3 primary types on offer, differing in design and performance:

Strip Shingles (3-Tab)

These basic shingles comprise only one layer of asphalt, making them fairly flat and lightweight. They are the most affordable, but least durable option. These are only rated for 60-70mph winds.

Architectural Shingles (Dimensional, Laminate)

These common shingles are built up with multiple layers of asphalt, giving them a thicker appearance and more resistance to the elements. Wind ratings can range from 110mph all the way up to 150mph for special reinforced brands.

Luxury Shingles

The name gives away that these shingles are not only the most expensive, but the highest quality as well. They are the most similar in appearance to coveted roofing materials like natural slate and classic shake. Wind ratings can exceed 150mph with the best brands. Luxury shingles can potentially last a lifetime.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs use large, solid pieces that span large sections and are bolted onto the home’s structure. This means that, unlike shingle or tile roofs, you never have to worry about small individual pieces being torn away by wind or debris. 

Florida homeowners have shown a growing preference for metal roofs due to their excellent strength and lifespans. Provided that it’s installed by a competent and professional crew, a metal roof can last anywhere from 40-70 years. Most manufacturers provide warranties spanning 50+ years. 

Moisture is resisted via rust-proof coatings, and the lack of individual pieces makes it less likely for algae or moss to build up on metal roofs. Additionally, they can endure wind speeds of 140mph or more. 

While metal roofing may be more expensive than other options, it is the least likely to need replacing or repair, which comes with its own hefty costs. They can be dented by heavy debris, which is a risk during hurricane season, but some panels offer extra resistance. Nevertheless, they still provide the highest degree of structural strength. Homeowners find this a big plus when considering the safety of their home. 

We offer 3 styles of metal roofing panels:

5V Crimp with Exposed Fasteners

These panels have minimal line texturing, giving them a smoother, more minimalistic appearance than the others. 

Rib Panel with Exposed Fasteners

Extra ribbing gives these panels the most textured look. 

Standing Seam Concealed Fastener

These have moderate texture, and their concealed fasteners protect the attachment components from the elements. 

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are among our most recommended options. They can resist wind speeds up to 150mph, making them a strong material for hurricane-vulnerable homes. Additionally, the enhanced performance and aesthetic quality of certain types can give your home added value in appraisals. 

There are many types of tile roofing on the market. Here at AKVM, we offer the following:

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are particularly durable for Florida roofs because they have high resistance to moisture and algal growth. They can last anywhere from 50-100 years. Clay tiles are on the more expensive side, running up to $3,000 per square (100sqf).

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles aren’t quite as durable as clay, but they are next in line. They last anywhere from 30-50 years. Costs run $400-1,000 per square.

Slate Tiles

This natural roofing material is a classic and highly waterproof. Hard slate is usually the recommended type for Florida homes, since soft slate is more delicate and prone to damage. It is more costly, amounting to $6000-$8000 per square.

Synthetic Roof Tiles

Synthetics can give you the visual appeal of more traditional materials, like slate, while keeping costs low and sometimes offering better durability. These tiles can range anywhere from $110 per square to $1600 per square depending on brand and quality.

Consult with an Expert Residential Roofer

Choosing the right type of material for your roof depends on several factors. You’ll need an assessment from a professional roofing contractor in order to be sure that you’re picking a material that suits your budget, local weather, and the structure of your house itself. 

We invite you to talk over your options with our experts. Contact us today for a consultation and a quote. 

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