Roofing shingles are the most popular roofing materials used throughout the country, very common in all areas, including Florida. However, the Sunshine State’s location along the coastline, in a region prone to extreme events, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, requires the people planning to get a new shingle roof to be very careful when choosing their shingles – here are some of the most common shingle types that you should consider for your building in Florida.
The Most Common Types of Asphalt Shingles
The type of shingles that comes to mind first is surely the common, inexpensive asphalt shingle variety, composed of a thin mat covered in weather-protective granules. While the solution is certainly the most widespread, it is a material that provides limited protection in front of high winds and other forms of extreme weather, therefore it is not the best solution for Florida roofs. Fortunately, asphalt shingles come in two other, stronger and more resistant varieties that make better, but not much more expensive choices: fiberglass shingles, that use a thicker, more resistant fiberglass mat and architectural shingles that are even more durable and have an attractive, multi-dimensional appearance. Asphalt shingles also come in impact-resistant varieties – these products have been tested and rated for their resistance to the impact caused by hail and other airborne object, therefore they are great for regions that get extreme weather frequently.
Shingles Made from Metal
Metal shingles are also very common these days. Made from steel, copper, aluminum, tin, zinc or coated alloys, metal shingles are available in many colors and textures and they provide durable protection that can last for over half a century. The material is lightweight, easy to install and easy to maintain, making a great solution for buildings that cannot support a heavier roof and need long-lasting protection.
Composite Shingles
These shingles are usually made from recycled plastic material, therefore they are great for environment-conscious building owners looking for a reliable roofing solution. The solution offers durability of up to 20 years as well as design variety – composite shingles are nowadays available in varieties that resemble clay, stone or wood as well as in many colored versions.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are among the most modern shingle types used today, the perfect option for anyone looking for a way to harness solar energy in one of the states that get the highest number of sunny days per year. If installed properly, by a qualified and experienced commercial roofer Orlando professional, solar shingles can last for up to 25 years. The material is quite expensive compared to others, but it does more than just protect your building from the elements – your solar shingles will collect solar energy and will heat your water, thus allowing you to save on your energy bills. You can choose to have a roof built entirely from solar shingles or you combine solar panels with conventional roofing materials.
To offset the high costs of the solar shingles, the property owners who choose the material can benefit from lots of tax benefits and other, state-level or federal incentives.