Metal vs. Shingle Roofs: Which is Better for Florida Homes?

Are you in the market for a new roof in Florida? Plenty of you are out there looking to protect your home with a new, high-quality roof from a local roofing contractor. However, deciding between the many available options can take time and effort.

Our area's two most popular roofing systems are metal and shingle roofs. Considering our warm climate and the challenges of dealing with the annual Atlantic Hurricane Season, choosing between these roofing materials can come down to many factors, such as price, availability of materials, and the style of your home.

So, what will it boil down to for you? Baldwin Roofing is here to help you decide which roofing material will work for you and your home. Let’s dig in.

Florida’s Climate and How It Can Impact Your Roof

It’s no surprise that Florida is one of the hottest and most humid states to live in. After all, the adage “it’s not the heat, it’s the humidity” is as close to the Gospel as possible. Still, living in Florida is like living in a paradise with plenty of things to do. There’s a reason why people still enjoy the Sunshine State.

The average temperature in Florida during winter is a low of 57 degrees. That temperature can balloon to between 88 and 100 degrees during the warmest parts of the summer. That’s quite the swing, and the temperatures can influence the health of your roof. 

Florida’s intense sunlight and heat can cause metal roofs to expand rapidly, causing the seams to separate. Those same temperatures can also cause shingle roofs to warp and crack slowly.

On the other hand, both roofing materials can handle our midday storms well. Water can bead off metal roofs easily, while shingle roofs can absorb water effectively. Still, you’ll likely want to ensure you have an appropriate gutter system in place, too.  

A quality roof backed by a local contractor with warranties can protect your home throughout the year. Of course, you’ll want to inspect your home’s roof at least twice a year to ensure you have nothing to worry about.

Metal vs. Shingle Roofs: A Breakdown

There are many factors to weigh when choosing between a metal roof or a shingle roof. When considering either option, it’s best to consider the following for each.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs have slowly become one of the best premium options for homeowners looking to sink more money into their roofing system.

When you opt for a metal roof, you choose an incredibly durable material that lasts decades longer than a shingle roof. Metal panels are also better at reflecting the Florida heat, making this roofing system more energy efficient over time and reducing your cooling costs.

A metal roof is also more resistant to the dangers of hurricane season. Sturdy metal panels are more challenging to remove from your home than the thousands of little shingles that can be easily blown off during a Category 1 hurricane.

However, metal roofs are a costly option for many homeowners. While they are a premium option, the higher initial costs can cause sticker shock. Not every contractor is trained to install the panels correctly, so you’ll also pay a higher installation cost.

Shingle Roofs

Shingle roofs remain one of the most popular choices for homeowners on a budget. That isn’t to say that shingles are a cheap solution. Instead, thanks to better engineering, shingles have become more durable.

Increased competitiveness among the many shingle manufacturers has pushed this durable material to heights where homeowners ultimately win. Customers will enjoy lower upfront costs to install shingles versus a metal roof.

The ease of installation is also a plus, making the process fast and affordable. Surprisingly, you could even install a few shingles yourself if you needed to in a pinch. Shingles come in various styles and colors, making your home stand out even more in crowded Florida neighborhoods.

However, shingle roofs have a much shorter lifespan than the average metal roof. They are also more vulnerable to high winds and hail during thunderstorms and hurricanes. Shingles also absorb heat more rather than deflect it.

What to Consider as a Homeowner

When it’s time to get to brass tacks and decide on which roofing material will work best for your home, you’ll need to consider the following.

The budget will be the most significant barrier to entry for many homeowners, and that’s not a surprise. After all, getting a new roof is a substantial investment in your home. However, it is a necessary one.

Depending on the size of your existing roof, be prepared to spend an average of over $11,000 on a metal roof. The average cost for a shingle roof is around $6,000 to $10,000, depending on the shingle’s manufacturer, style, colors, etc.

Of course, you’ll also want to consider your home’s existing architecture and ask, “Which roofing type will match my home’s style or make it stand out more?” If you need a guide, look no further than the other houses in your neighborhood. If you want some inspiration, there’s nothing that a walk around your neighborhood can’t solve!

There are plenty of other questions to ask, such as having an honest conversation about how long you plan to stay in your home. If you’ve genuinely found your forever home, you may want to invest more in it with a new roof. However, if there’s a chance you could be moving in a few years to greener pastures, then it may not be wise to spend too much money.

Surprisingly, insurance premiums are another consideration to consider when investing in a new roof. Insurers factor in your roofing material when deciding whether to cover your home. The better the roofing material, the more appealing the house is for an insurance company to cover. Of course, you’ll pay lower premiums on your home if you’re getting a new roof installed.

Remember that the goal of getting a new roof is to protect your home. While it can be tempting to go for a cheaper option or a more affordable contractor, a new roof is not something you can cheap out on. Go with quality materials and a licensed and bonded contractor. If you don’t, you’ll spend more on repairs after a storm blows through your neighborhood.

Are You Ready to Decide?

Choosing between a metal roof and a shingle roof can be challenging if you want to invest in your home. As stated, metal roofs are a premium option that can last for decades, while shingle roofs are a more affordable option that remains popular for average homeowners.

Considering Florida’s unique climate is vital when deciding between the two materials. Ultimately, you’ll want a roof that makes your heart swell with pride every time you come home and can protect it from the Florida heat, storms, and hurricanes.

If you’re ready to decide and need someone to help you make it happen, Baldwin Roofing is one of the area’s best roofing companies. We aim to help you choose a roof, install it, and back it with our craftsmanship and warranties.

If you’re ready to experience the difference provided by Baldwin Roofing, contact us today to get started with an estimate. We look forward to helping you soon!

‍