In Florida, you typically have two choices of shingles for your roof: architectural shingles or 3-tab shingles. Architectural Shingles are the best shingles for Florida because they have a longer lifespan and better durability than 3-tab shingles. Additionally, the price difference is not significant. Architectural shingles are great for homeowners who want shingles but need their roof to withstand harsh weather and intense humidity.
What should you consider when picking roof shingles in Florida?
Florida’s humidity and weather are major causes of a shortened roof lifespan. Selecting the best roof type, ensuring proper installation, and following up with consistent care will help your roof fight off damage caused by Florida’s climate.
Harsh Weather and Durability
Florida’s consistent rainfall and storms cause roofs and shingles to take quite a beating. They have to be expertly installed and maintained to keep their look and effectiveness over time. We recommend the most durable shingles from the get-go to mitigate the amount of maintenance required in the future.
Algae-Resistant Shingles
The state of Florida requires that all roofs be installed with algae-resistant shingles. Many other states don’t have this requirement, but we would use algae-resistant shingles even if it wasn’t mandatory. Algae-resistant shingles offer a superior level of durability for a longer-lasting roof by protecting your home from the damaging effects of algae buildup.
Who makes the best shingles for Florida?
When it comes to shingle brands, CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning are the preferred options because they create a heavier shingle. This makes your roof more secure during heavy storms and increases its overall durability.
CertainTeed creates a reliable shingle and their business practices are just as reliable. Their warranties are the best in the business.
We also install both GAF and Owens Corning shingles upon request, but these brands tend to be more expensive than CertainTeed. At Central Homes Roofing, we want to install the best roof shingles for your home and provide you with the exact shingle style you prefer. This is why we install roofing from a variety of brands depending on your preference.
Interested in Roofing Services? Contact us now!
Shingles affect on home temperature?
Shingles affecting the temperature in your home is a myth and a sales tactic. The temperature in your home is dependent on the age of your air conditioning unit, proper ventilation in your attic, and the age of your doors and windows. We do not recommend paying extra for white “Energy Star” shingles.
Are architectural shingles less likely to be damaged in a storm or hurricane?
Architectural shingles are far less likely to blow away in a storm because the shingles are all one piece, unlike the 3-tabs. The 3-tabs have tabs that flip and flop in heavy winds leading to a higher likelihood of damage during harsh Florida storms.
How long before needing a replacement?
In Florida, you can expect your shingles to last between 10 and 20 years depending on the type:
- 3 Tab Shingles: 10 to 15 years
- Architectural Shingles: 15 to 20 years
With proper maintenance, you can prolong the life of your architectural shingles even further.
Maintenance packages usually include cleaning gutters and roof, caulking any cracked areas or nail pops, and using a soft wash chemical to kill off algae. This costs an average of .24 to .30 cents per square foot.
Hurricanes and hail will shorten the lifespan of shingles. However, by using more durable shingles, like architectural shingles, your roof stands a better chance against the elements.
Will you need to replace all the shingles when damaged?
If it’s just a few shingles that are showing damage, it may be in your best interest to simply hire a contractor to replace those. However, if there’s a large number of damaged shingles, you may need to completely replace the roof.
We recommend replacing the roof entirely when you have had several active leaks in different areas. That is a sign that the roof is beyond repair. Contact us if you’ve noticed damaged shingles or leaks in your home.
How expensive are 3-tab and architectural shingles?
All of the Architectural shingles are about the same price. The architectural shingles are only a couple hundred dollars more than a 3 tab. That is why we recommend always going with an architectural shingle over a 3-tab as the cost difference is very small. While architectural shingles are priced slightly higher, it will result in a longer-lasting, more durable roof.
Do I have different color options?
Central Homes Roofing offers a variety of color options – they are different shades of brown, black, and gray.
Choose your shingle colors wisely as it will likely be on your roof for upward of 15 years. That’s a commitment, so make sure you love the way it looks.
Consider the color of your home before making a final decision. For example, pair a light gray house with a black, blue, or gray shingle.
Light shingle colors can make a house appear larger, with darker colors having the opposite effect.
How long does it take to install architectural shingles?
Architectural shingles are easier and faster to install than 3-tab shingles. All roof replacements are broken into a series of phases:
- The old roof will need to be removed
- Any problems will be repaired
- A protective barrier will be placed
- New shingles will be installed
Your roofing company will be able to give you a projected timeline for your roof replacement.
What is the most common choice for shingles in Florida?
Architectural shingles are by far the most common style in Florida. In fact, most HOAs are making it mandatory to only install architectural shingles. We always recommend checking in with your HOA about style and color before we begin the re-roofing process. Going against HOA guidelines can be a costly mistake that can easily be avoided.