Residential Roofing FLORIDA

CLAY TILE ROOFING

is a time-tested roofing solution. It’s used around the world not only because of its functionality, but also because it looks great. Clay gives homes an unbeatably warm texture, and a style you won’t find in any other roofing material. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of this uniquely beautiful roofing solution.
The Pros

Clay tile is durable, energy efficient, and as we mentioned, beautiful. Plus it’s relatively easy to replace tiles. Clay tiles can last up to 75 years or more, and that’s a number that’s only surpassed by slate roofing. Plus, clay tiles are energy efficient. The clay naturally reflects sunlight, and they allow for some airflow between the tiles, which can reduce cooling costs for your home. If you have a cracked tile, it will require replacing, but tiles can be swapped out with relative ease — just be sure to hire a professional, since other tiles can be damaged as repairs are performed.

As far as aesthetics go, clay tiles just look great. Clay is a popular choice with stucco homes, and homes that have natural exterior facade materials. If, for instance, you have a stone, wood, or brick home exterior, clay tiles enhance and accent that natural look. Clay tiles are available in a variety of colors (depending on the clay from which they’re made), as well as shapes (which can give your roof a different texture).
The Cons

Clay tiles are expensive, heavy, and delicate. Although clay tiles can last for decades on end, you’ll have to be very cautious if you need to get on your roof. Clay tiles aren’t built to handle the weight of someone moving over them, so roof repairs should be performed with caution. Be sure to speak with any technician that may be working on roofing vents, chimneys, pipes, or any other facet on your roof.

Due to their weight, clay tiles can only be built on roofs that can handle heavier loads. Clay tile roofs tend to weigh between 9.5 and 12 pounds per square foot, and that number is several times heavier than asphalt shingles (which weigh in at 2.5 to 4 pounds per square foot). Consult your building documents, or speak with a trained roofer to determine whether or not your current roofing structure can support the weight of clay tiles.

Clay tiles are also more expensive than asphalt shingles and wood shakes, but they’re less expensive than slate tile roofs. Clay tile roofs tend to cost $800 to $1,000 per square for material costs (a roofing square is one hundred square feet). Due to its cost, clay tiles are often the best choice for those who aren’t planning on selling their home any time soon.

ASPHALT SHINGLE ROOFING

is the most popular option in America. Why? Well, it’s effective, easy to install, and cheaper than any other option on this list. If you’re looking for a roofing material that’s perfectly adequate at protecting your roof, and a material that won’t break the bank, then asphalt shingles are the obvious choice. Here are some additional pros and cons to consider if you’re thinking about opting for a shingle roof:
The Pros

First and foremost, asphalt is a sure bet if you want an affordable roofing solution. Asphalt shingle roofs tend to cost roughly $450 per square with installation costs (a roofing square is one hundred square feet) — although that number can vary greatly depending on the product used. Asphalt shingles are also available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can select a product that best suits the look of your house.

Nowadays, shingles are also fire resistant and wind resistant. In fact, some Owens Corning® shingles are rated to withstand winds of 130 miles per hour or more. Thanks to advances in asphalt shingle technology, shingles remain the most popular choice for American homeowners.
The Cons

While asphalt shingles are the most affordable option, they tend to lack longevity. Most shingles last about 20 years, depending on the manufacturer and type. That said, there are shingles available today with a projected lifespan of 50 years. Here at Red Dog’s Roofing of Florida, we’re Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractors, which means that we can install Owens Corning shingles that are backed by limited lifetime warranties — so if you’re concerned about the longevity of your shingle, you can just count on Red Dog’s.

METAL ROOFING

is unlike any other roofing material in both its aesthetic, and the way it is tacked onto your roof. Metal sheet roofing is praised for its longevity and durability, and it looks great on top of certain structures. Let’s delve into the other pros and cons that come alongside metal roofing.
The Pros

Metal roofing lasts a long time, and that means a great value for the cost. Metal roofs tend to last between 40 and 70 years, depending on the material. Plus, metal roofs are pretty impervious to anything you can throw at them. You can walk on metal roofs without damaging them (as long as you don’t damage any protective surfaces that are applied, if your metal roof is painted). As such, hail won’t do much against your roof (although it can leave it pocked with small dings and dents). Metal roofing is also lightweight, and it can be applied on almost any roof. Metal roofs reflect light, too, which is great for energy efficiency here in Florida.
The Cons

Metal roofing can be noisy, it’s more expensive than asphalt shingles, and, as we mentioned, it can get dented by hail. If you don’t like the loud pitter-patter of rain and hail, than metal roofing may not be the option for you, since it can send sound through your whole home.

Metal roofing costs vary depending on the material and the cut of the metal. You can find prices anywhere from $120 per square for corrugated steel panels to $900 per square for copper or zinc roofing (a roofing square is one hundred square feet).

Hail is a real possibility here in Florida, and a hailstorm can leave your metal roof looking weathered. Fortunately, denting doesn’t usually harm the integrity and waterproof characteristics of the metal.

SLATE TILE ROOFING

Like clay tile roofing, slate tiles give your roof a look that you won’t find in any other material. These tiles represent the pinnacle of roofing protection, since they outlast any other material on the market. However, there are a few notable drawbacks to slate tile roofing, in addition to these benefits. Here are some things that you should consider if you’re thinking about installing a slate tile roof on your home:
The Pros

Slate tile roofing is the pinnacle of longevity, as far as roofing materials go. Slate roofs can last a century or longer.  Plus, slate has an aesthetic you won’t find in any other roofing material. Each tile has unique imperfections and coloring. While some tiles are glossy, others are matte, and while one quarry might produce brown tiles, another may produce black tiles. The options are endless, as is the potential.
The Cons

Slate tiles are the most expensive option on this list. Slate tile roofs tend to cost $1,100 to $2,000 per square (a roofing square is one hundred square feet). On top of that, slate can break, and when it does, it will require immediate replacing. Slate can break underfoot, especially if it’s been on your roof for a few decades, so be extra cautious if you’re having any work done on your roof. If you’re getting a new slate roof, it’s wise to invest in some extra tiles in case a few should break throughout the lifespan of your home — that way you’ll have tiles that match the color and cut of your current roof.

Slate tiles also require plenty of support, since they’re the heaviest roofing option on the list. Adding slate to your roof is only possible if your home’s structure is built for a heavier roof.

COMPOSITE SLATE ROOFING

Composite slate is just that — a composite roofing material that is designed to mimic the look of slate. It’s an excellent option for folks who love that slate tile roof look, but don’t love the slate tile roof price. But there’s plenty more to be said about composite slate roofing. Here are a few of the pros and cons of this roofing material:
The Pros

Composite slate tiles are a fraction of the cost of the real deal. Composite slate roofs tend to cost $300 to $500 per square per square (a roofing square is one hundred square feet). If you love the look of slate, but don’t have the money to invest, composite slate provides that same look that you love. Slate tiles are also available in a variety of colors and shapes, so you can truly customize your roof.
The Cons

Composite tiles don’t last as long as real slate tiles. You can expect composite slate to last roughly the same amount of time as asphalt shingles. Composite tiles may also be flammable, and their more susceptible to damage caused by heavy winds.

WOODEN SHAKE ROOFING

Do you want a highly distinct roofing style without all the added weight that comes with slate and clay roofs? Consider wooden shake roofing. This roofing material has just as much character as the aforementioned materials, yet it can be built on low weight limit roofs. Here are a few more benefits to consider, as well as some drawbacks that you should keep in mind if you’re weighing your options:
The Pros

Wood shakes have a distinct look, and they’re naturally resistant to algae and mold. Wood shakes look great on nearly any home, be it a home with vinyl siding or an abode with a stucco facade. Wood shakes can add value to a home, and their particularly attractive if you’re looking to boost your home’s curb appeal.

Wood shakes are about the middle of the stack when it comes to cost. Wood shake roofs tend to cost $350 to $450 per square for material costs (a roofing square is one hundred square feet). Wood shakes are also naturally insulating, so you can see a reduction in your energy bill.
The Cons

Wood shakes don’t last all that long (usually 50 years or fewer), they’re difficult to install, and they can eventually crack, requiring repair. Also, some folks don’t like the fact that wood shakes fade in color as they age. While your shakes may start out as a golden orange color, they’ll slowly fade to an ashen brown with time (some people like this transition too!).
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