6 Types of Roof To Beat the Florida Heat

6 Types of Roof To Beat the Florida Heat 

If you live in Florida, you might be wondering what kind of roofing materials will withstand the heat and weather. The good thing is that you have various options to choose from. Knowing what they are might assist you in deciding which one is best for your property.

The best method to make an informed decision about the roofing material for your Florida house is to do your research. But worry no more because we’ve collected all the information you need in choosing the perfect Miami roofing for your home. Here, you can select various roofing materials, from clay tiles and metal to wood shingles. 

Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best Roof

Roofing isn’t just about hiring the workers to do it for you. It also involves research on your part to make sure you’re choosing the right materials, roof type, and if what you choose considers the factors you’re about to read.

Weather and Climate

When it comes to selecting the ideal roofing material for your home in Florida, you must take into account a wide range of weather events and climate circumstances, such as:

• Hurricanes and tropical storms – Even if it does not make landfall, its tail end can extend hundreds of miles and can cause damage to roofs due to strong wind and hail.

• Tornadoes – Florida ranks the highest among Oklahoma and Nebraska in terms of annual twisters. Even local thunderstorms are significant threats to your roofs.

• Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures – Particularly in the north-central and panhandle areas can cause significant damage to your roofing system.
• Every year, fires devastate hundreds of acres of Florida’s wild terrain. With many Florida residents now residing — or wanting to reside — on what was formerly undeveloped land, the danger of homes catching fire during wildfires grows.
• Heat and humidity and freeze and thaw cycles can cause structural elements of a roof to become stressed.

Durability and Life Expectancy of the Material 

The first factor to consider is durability. Some roofing materials are better suited to warmer areas than others, so do your homework before purchasing any shingles.

You may believe you’re being practical, but future maintenance could cost you hundreds of dollars. 

Another thing to keep in mind is the material’s lifespan. Some materials, such as tile or slate, are more durable than shingles, which must be maintained frequently due to weather deterioration.

For those on a tight budget, investing in a costly roof that will be obsolete in three years or less may not be worth it.

At the end of the day, it’s all about figuring out what will work best for you.

Let’s look at the list of different Miami roofing materials and learn which one best suits your Florida home.

Clay Tiles

In Florida, clay tiles are very common roofing materials. It will withstand the heat and harsh weather. Still, it will also blend in with the southwestern home architecture famous across the area. 

Compared to standard asphalt shingles, this roofing material has a much longer lifespan. While they may need a little cleaning now and then, clay tiles require very little maintenance. They are exceptionally resistant to pests and corrosion. Another advantage of clay tiles is that they are non-combustible.

However, one of the most significant drawbacks of this kind of roofing material is its weight, which may need additional support. Furthermore, the tiles are delicate and may break if you step on them. 

Concrete Tiles

These are relatively new roofing alternatives in Florida. They can imitate the appearance of wood shingles and other varieties of tiles. Concrete tiles are long-lasting and low-maintenance.

Insects, mold, and rot can’t get into this roofing material. In addition, they are significantly lighter than clay tiles or slate, but they can still create the same aesthetics.

There are certain drawbacks to using concrete tiles, such as their higher cost and the risk of the material deteriorating over time.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing used to consist of lead, copper, or zinc. But nowadays, it is most commonly composed of steel. Metal roofs can be customized to resemble shingles, Victorian metal tiles, wood shakes, and clay tiles.

This type of roof is exceptionally long-lasting and almost maintenance-free. The metal bounces the sun’s rays and heat away from the house, making it cooler and more energy efficient. You may see a drop in your summer electrical bills when installing a metal roof. Metal roofs have a lifespan of roughly 50 years. They are more resistant to rot and moss growth than other roofing materials. 

Slate Roofing

A slate roof is a top-quality roofing style composed of incredibly fine shards of stone or minerals such as mica or quartz, which contributes to their weight. It’s one of the most aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting roofing systems available. Asphalt shingles are made to mimic the appearance of slate roofs for aesthetic reasons.

Considering the weight of this material, this requires hiring a professional roofer who understands how to support a load of these slates correctly.

Slate tiles are perfect for ecologically aware Florida homeowners because they do not contain hazardous components like other tile materials and can last a century.

The only disadvantage of this material is that it collects moisture and expands during summer, which might lead them to fall out of their original position. 

A slate tile roof will provide years of beauty and protection, but they are more expensive to install and maintain than other roof types. 

Rubber Roofs

Rubber roofing is a cost-effective alternative to terra cotta and slate roofs. On the other hand, rubber roofing materials can imitate the appearance of slate and wood.

With a rubber roof, you may save money while increasing your home’s energy efficiency. Rubber is an excellent insulator. Although it costs between $4 and $8 a square foot, it’s more energy-efficient and better equipped to protect your property from the hot weather, making it an attractive alternative to asphalt.

Wooden Roofs 

Coastal dwellings often use wood. For many, it has a seaside, natural look. Wood shingles also resist saltwater corrosion, making them a popular choice for beachfront homes.

Wooden shingles are also incredibly breathable, allowing air to circulate freely around the house. They’re also one of the most eco-friendly roofing options. They are also cost-effective when compared to the alternative.

However, wood shingles have a few drawbacks, such as regular sealing to leaks and rotting, which is time-consuming. Wood is also flammable, which makes your home vulnerable to fire.

Think of Everything (Or at least, try to)

When it comes to installing new roofing on your Florida house, there are several options to consider. If you choose the right material, you can go 20 years or more without replacing your roof. Remember that each of these roofing options will require some maintenance, so learn how to take care of the roofing of your choice properly.

Whatever roofing material you choose, keep in mind that Florida homes are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions and other natural hazards. Hire a reputable roofer, such as  Century Roofing Specialists , to ensure that your roof receives the necessary protection!