What Are Asphalt Shingles: Best Shingles For Florida Roofs

For roofing materials that strike a balance between affordability, durability, and versatility, asphalt shingles stand out as a popular choice for Florida homeowners. With the Sunshine State’s unique climate and weather conditions, selecting the best shingles for Florida roofs requires careful consideration.

Best Shingles For Florida Roofs

Asphalt shingles have earned their reputation as one of the most sought-after roofing materials for several compelling reasons. Firstly, their cost-effectiveness makes them an attractive choice for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly yet durable solution. Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns, including intense sunlight and heavy rainfall, demand materials that can withstand the elements, and asphalt shingles are up to the challenge.

Without question asphalt shingles are the most widely used material by Central Florida roofers because of their durability and affordability. They are available in just about any color and style to suit virtually anyone’s taste. The cost of asphalt shingles can vary. The biggest factors that impact cost include the quality of the shingles, however, they are generally considered one of the most budget-friendly options compared to other types of residential roofing materials. 

Let’s take a closer look at what asphalt shingles are, and how much they cost. Plus, we explain the different types of asphalt roofing shingles on the market.

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material that consists of individual overlapping elements. They are made from a mixture of petroleum asphalt, and fiberglass, and are covered with a granular surface.

The granules increase the surface area of the shingles, helping them resist the sun’s UV rays and keep the roof cooler. They also help protect against mold and algae.

The shingles overlap each other to form a tight seal that prevents water from penetrating the underlayment and causing leaks in the roof.

They offer different styles, such as three-tab or regular shingles and architectural or dimensional shingles, which come in a wide range of colors, blending seamlessly with the aesthetic of any home.

What Are the Advantages of Asphalt Roofing Shingles?

Asphalt shingles have advantages that make them a popular choice for roofing material:

1. Durability and Weather Resistance

With Florida’s climate, asphalt shingles shine as a resilient option. Many high-quality asphalt shingles are engineered to resist UV rays and prevent premature fading, ensuring that your roof’s aesthetic appeal remains intact for years to come. Additionally, the superior water-resistant properties of asphalt shingles make them an excellent choice for safeguarding your home against Florida’s frequent rainstorms and occasional hurricanes.

2. Variety and Aesthetics

Florida’s diverse architectural styles call for roofing materials that can complement a wide range of designs. Asphalt shingles come in a plethora of styles, colors, and textures, allowing you to customize your roof’s appearance to suit your preferences and the overall look of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a classic, contemporary, or even a coastal vibe, there’s an asphalt shingle option to match.

3. Installation Ease and Energy Efficiency

Another advantage of asphalt shingles is their relatively simple installation process, which can help minimize labor costs and installation time. Moreover, certain types of asphalt shingles are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Reflective asphalt shingles can reduce your home’s cooling costs by reflecting sunlight and preventing excessive heat absorption, a particularly valuable trait in Florida’s scorching climate.

Overall, asphalt roof shingles are a great option for those looking for an affordable and durable roofing material that offers a wide range of options to fit different aesthetics, climates, and fire resistance.

How Much Do Asphalt Shingles Cost?

On average, asphalt roofing shingles cost $2 to $10 per square foot. However, there are several variables to consider based on the complexity of the roof, such as its pitch (steep-sloped or flat), or if it has skylights, chimneys, or ventilation systems that need to be worked around. For a more accurate estimate, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a licensed Central Florida roofer.

Types of Asphalt Shingles

Here are a few main types of asphalt shingles:

• Three-Tab Shingles: Three-tab shingles are the most economical type of shingles. They are flat and uniform in shape and size and have three distinct tabs that give them a classic look. Tabbed shingles are typically thinner than other types of shingles and are less distinctive than other styles. 

• Architectural Shingles: Architectural shingles are more expensive than three-tab styles, but they offer a more distinctive look. Because of their textured and dimensional look, they can increase the curb appeal of any home.

• Luxury Shingles: Luxury shingles are a type of high-end architectural shingles that mimic the look of more expensive roofing materials, such as wood, slate, or clay tile. They are made from a combination of asphalt and other materials, such as synthetic or natural fibers. This gives them a more textured and realistic look. These shingles have multiple layers and a thicker cut to create a more dimensional look and feel. They are more expensive than traditional architectural shingles and three-tab shingles but offer a more premium and elegant appearance. They are also more durable, fire-resistant, and energy-efficient. Luxury shingles are often marketed as “premium shingles,” “designer shingles,” or “specialty shingles.” They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your roof. Luxury shingles may have a higher upfront cost than traditional shingles however, they offer long-term value for durability, aesthetics, and energy savings.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles?

As with any type of roofing material, there are both pros and cons to using asphalt shingles.

Pros:

1. Affordability: They are relatively inexpensive to manufacture, which makes them a cost-effective roofing option.
2. Durability: Asphalt roof shingles are strong and durable. They can withstand heavy winds, rain, and other types of severe weather.
3. Variety: The shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the aesthetic of any home.
4. Low maintenance: Shingles are low maintenance and do not require special cleaning or treatments.

Cons:

1. Short lifespan: Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other types of roofing materials, such as metal or tile. They generally last between 15 and 20 years in Florida’s hot sun and frequent storms, which means that they may need to be replaced sooner than other types of roofs.
2. Susceptible to damage: Asphalt shingles are susceptible to damage from severe weather and high winds, which can cause them to crack or break.
3. Limited lifespan in high heat: In hot, arid climates, shingles have a shorter lifespan because of UV exposure and thermal expansion. 
4. Only work with certain roofs: Asphalt shingles are meant for steep-sloped roofs and are not suited for flat or low-sloped roofs.

Overall, asphalt shingles are a good option for those looking for cost-effective, low-maintenance roofing material. While they come in a wide range of options to fit different aesthetics, they have a shorter lifespan and are susceptible to damage in extreme climates and weather.

Do Asphalt Shingles Require Cleaning or Regular Maintenance?

Asphalt shingles do not require regular cleaning or maintenance. They are relatively low-maintenance roofing materials. However, there are a few things that you can do to help extend the life of your asphalt shingle roof:

1. Keep the roof clear of debris: Leaves, branches, and other types of debris can accumulate on the roof, which can trap moisture and lead to the growth of moss or algae. These can damage the shingles and shorten the life of the roof.
2. Trim overhanging tree branches: Tree branches that hang over the roof can cause damage to the shingles and create openings for water to penetrate the underlayment.
3. Check for missing or damaged shingles: Asphalt shingles can become loose or missing over time, which can create openings for water to penetrate the underlayment. Regularly inspect your roof to look for any missing or damaged shingles and to replace them as needed.
4. Keep the gutters and downspouts clear: clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up on the roof, which can lead to leaks and damage to the shingles.

Have your roof inspected by a professional Central Florida roofing contractor regularly. This is especially true after a severe storm. Check for signs of damage and make repairs as soon as possible.

Overall, asphalt shingles are low maintenance and don’t require regular cleaning. However, you should keep an eye on your roof. If you see damage, repair it as soon as possible. This will extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs down the road.

You might also like to learn more about:

• Why Metal Roofs Are The Top Roofing Material in Florida
• Should You Repair Or Replace Your Roof
• Why Concrete Tile Roofing Are More Popular In Florida?
• Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roof