Florida experiences hurricanes and storm storms several times a year. The subtropical climate of Tampa Florida entails extremely hot summers rife with thunderstorms. These extreme conditions require the homeowners to select their roofing materials carefully. A discussion with experienced roofers in Tampa will enable them to make informed decisions. However, this article discusses three of the most suitable roofing materials for Florida and their pros and cons.
1. Asphalt
Asphalt is the most popular roofing material among the homeowners of Florida. The reason for this is its cost-effectiveness. You don’t have to have a huge budget for installing an asphalt roof.
Asphalt shingles are of two types, those with a cellulose mat as the base and the other with fiberglass as the base. Considering the quality of the shingle, you can have three different qualities, strip shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles.
Strip shingles are the cheapest one because it involves only one layer of asphalt. So it is lightweight. The dimensional shingles have two layers, and so they are thicker and sturdier. Since they are thick, they give a three-dimensional appearance resembling wood shakes. The luxury shingles are the thickest ones having three layers. They give your roof an elegance that is similar to slate. These are the most expensive type.
Asphalt shingles are cost-effective because they provide you with a service life of 20 to 30 years at a minimal expense. The only downside is that you should be extra careful to fix them firmly to the rafters. The strong wind of Florida can be detrimental to asphalt shingles unless they are nailed to the roof structure well. The seams should be glued underneath so that the chances of wind lifting them.
2. Clay & concrete tiles
The clay and concrete tiled roofs are highly durable. These tiles are wind resistant. Florida needs a roofing material that can defy hurricanes and storms. Besides, it also needs a material that can withstand heavy rains and scorching summer. The clay and concrete tiles do not absorb water. So, the homeowners do not have to fear the downpour soaking through their roof. In the height of summer, you do not need to worry about the sun cracking or damaging your roof in any way. The tiles are capable of enduring all kinds of climatic strains. Wind cannot blow them away; the sun cannot scorch them, and the rains cannot rot them. The present custom-made tiles suit all kinds of architecture and enhance the style of your home.
The scare of fire is very real in the present age of global warming. The tiles are fire-resistant. The vermin cannot get past them. So, they keep your attic completely free of pests. The tiles are highly energy efficient. They keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. The tiled roof also keeps your attic and living space moisture-free in the rainy season. What’s more, it is not noisy during the rains. It needs almost zero maintenance. The significant disadvantage, perhaps, is the weight of the tiles. You will need extra sturdy roof frames.
3. Metal
Metal roofs may be the most long-term cost-effective roofs in Tampa Florida. It is not as expensive as slate or concrete tiles. The lightweight metal does not require extra strong roof frames. Its lightweight makes it easier to install. Metal is available in several aesthetically pleasing colors and shapes. It goes well with all architectural styles.The reflectance capacity of the metal roof is very high. It reflects the sun’s heat and so does not allow the inside of the home to heat up. During winter is retains the inside heat to keep you warm. A metal roof affects your energy bills positively. As it does not soak up water, your attic and living space are rendered free of dampness.
Metal is fire-resistant and water-resistant. The metal roof resists the wind to a great extent. It is unbreakable. The maintenance of the metal roof is almost nil, and it has considerable longevity. On the downside, it is noisy during the rain if a proper muffler layer is not installed. After considering the pros and cons of these materials, you can choose a roofing material that suits your budget.