Are Asphalt Shingles Right for Your Florida Home?
Asphalt shingles remain one of the most popular roofing materials in the United States, and for good reason. They are generally inexpensive, readily available, and come in a variety of colors & styles. However, like any roof material type, they have their advantages and disadvantages.
Blue Sky Roofing has been repairing and installing roofs in the South Florida market for years. We've seen how different materials behave in our strong heat and during storm season. In this post, we'll explain what asphalt shingles are, their potential drawbacks, and whether they're still a good option for your home.
What Exactly Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roof types found on homes today. They often come in a couple of different designs:
- Three-tab shingles: Named by their look, which features vertical slots that form three distinct tabs. They are often the most cost-effective solution.
- Architectural shingles: They have no cuts and instead include numerous layers to give your roof a more realistic, textured effect.
- Designer shingles: Thicker, usually custom-shaped, and designed to increase curb appeal. They may replicate the high-end look of materials such as slate.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of asphalt shingles, let's look at the potential downsides.
The Realities of Asphalt Shingles in Florida
While asphalt shingles are a popular choice among many homeowners, there are a few crucial concerns. This is not to suggest they're "bad," but it's always best to get all of the data before choosing a new roofing material.
- Asphalt shingles are prone to breaking since they are relatively lightweight, especially given Florida's high temperatures.
- Asphalt shingles can only handle so much wind damage, which is a significant factor for any Florida homeowner. If you live in an area prone to high winds, tropical storms, or hurricanes, asphalt shingles, particularly lighter types, may not be the most durable option.
- Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other materials since they are lighter, more cost-effective in the beginning, and more susceptible to weather-related deterioration over time.
Are Asphalt Shingles Still a Good Fit for Your Largo Home?
Despite these possible downsides, asphalt shingles are still a viable and popular alternative for many homeowners. The type of property you own, your budget, your geographical location in Florida, and your own aesthetic tastes all influence the best roofing style for you.
Before you hire someone to install new shingles on your roof, make sure you choose a roofing company that you know will fulfill their job to the greatest standards. Hiring a registered and insured contractor, such as Blue Sky Roofing, assures that regardless of the type of shingles you select, you will receive the best service, appropriate installation, and long-lasting protection for your Florida home.
Ready to explore your roofing options and find the perfect fit for your home? Contact Blue Sky Roofing today for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation and itemized quote!