Central Florida's vibrant communities and sunny skies come with a unique set of challenges for homeowners. Here at Sunbird Home Inspections, we understand the importance of a roof that can withstand the region's intense heat, occasional hail, and the ever-present threat of windstorms.
Two popular roofing options for Central Florida homes are asphalt shingles and Spanish tiles. While both offer protection from the elements, they differ significantly in terms of material, lifespan, aesthetics, and overall cost. Let's delve into the pros and cons of each roofing material to help you make the best decision for your home.
Asphalt Shingles: The Affordable All-rounder (and the most common)
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in the United States, and for good reason.
Here's a breakdown of their key features: Asphalt vs. Spanish Tile Roofs
Affordability: Asphalt shingles offer the most budget-friendly option for roof replacement. They are readily available and relatively inexpensive to install. Check with your local code enforcement department concerning installing roofs. Asphalt vs. Spanish Tile Roofs both have pros and cons. Let's look at each one.
Ease of Installation: Asphalt shingle roofs are lightweight and can be installed on most roof pitches. This translates to quicker installation times and potentially lower labor costs.
Variety of Styles and Colors: Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing you to complement your home's architectural design. They even come in architectural shingle options that mimic the look of slate or wood shakes at a fraction of the cost.
Low Maintenance: Asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. Regular inspections are recommended to identify any potential problems early on. Sunbird Home Inspections does both Wind Mitigation as well as a thorough 4-point insurance inspection.
Lifespan: While a significant advantage in terms of affordability, asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof in Florida is typically around 15-20 years, depending on factors like shingle quality, installation, and weather conditions.
Heat Absorption: Asphalt shingles absorb heat, contributing to higher attic temperatures and potentially increasing your cooling costs during Florida's scorching summers. This is one disadvantage to asphalt shingles and new Metal Roofs reflect high heat.
Limited Wind Resistance: Asphalt shingles are generally less wind-resistant than other roofing materials. While some architectural shingles offer improved wind resistance, they might not be suitable for withstanding the powerful winds associated with hurricanes.
Spanish Tile Roofs: Timeless Beauty with Lasting Durability.
Spanish tile roofs, with their distinctive Mediterranean charm, have graced homes for centuries.
Here's a closer look at their characteristics:
Durability: Spanish tile roofs are renowned for their exceptional longevity. Clay and concrete tiles can last for 50-100 years with proper maintenance, making them a true investment in your home.
Superior Wind Resistance: Spanish tile roofs can withstand powerful winds exceeding 160 mph, offering exceptional protection during hurricanes. This can be a critical factor for Central Florida homeowners.
Fire Resistance: Spanish tile roofs are non-combustible and have a Class A fire rating, the highest possible designation. This translates to a lower fire risk for your home.
Energy Efficiency: While not as reflective as metal roofs, Spanish tile roofs offer some level of heat deflection, potentially contributing to lower cooling costs. Additionally, the inherent weight of the tiles can help insulate your attic space.
Aesthetics: Spanish tile roofs offer a timeless elegance and classic beauty that complements various architectural styles, particularly Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean Revival homes.
High Installation Cost: Spanish tile roofs are significantly more expensive than asphalt shingles due to the material cost, weight, and specialized installation required.
Maintenance Needs: While generally low-maintenance, Spanish tile roofs require periodic inspections to check for loose or broken tiles and ensure proper drainage.
Weight Considerations: The substantial weight of Spanish tiles necessitates a structurally sound roof system. Older homes might not be able to support the weight of a Spanish tile roof, requiring additional structural reinforcement, which can further increase the overall cost.
Central Florida Considerations:
When choosing between asphalt shingles and Spanish tile roofs for your Central Florida home, consider these additional factors:
Climate: Central Florida's heat and occasional hail can impact both roofing materials. While Spanish tiles can withstand hail better, asphalt shingles might require more frequent replacement due to sun damage.
Style: Spanish tiles add a distinct aesthetic appeal, particularly suited to certain architectural styles. Asphalt shingles offer a wider variety of styles to complement different architectural designs.
Budget: Asphalt shingles are a more budget-friendly option, while Spanish tiles offer a long-term investment with superior durability.
Hurricane Protection: Spanish tiles offer superior wind resistance, crucial for withstanding Central Florida's hurricane threats.
Sunbird Home Inspections: Guiding You Towards the Right Roof
At Sunbird Home Inspections, our experienced inspectors can assess your roof's condition and advise you on. I hope this guide and discussion has helped make your choice easier when choosing Asphalt vs. Spanish Tile Roofs.