Roofing Materials: “What’s the best roof?”

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alexa

Short answer: There’s no single best. The right system balances budget, durability, look, code/wind requirements, and home design.

Common Residential Roofing Options

Asphalt Shingles (3‑tab and Architectural/Laminated): Most common; wide color selection; Class A fire ratings common (fiberglass mat); architectural styles better hide deck defects and offer higher wind ratings. Florida lifespans are often shorter than marketed warranties. Impact‑resistant options use modified bitumen with elastifiers/UV blockers.
Tile (Concrete/Clay): Very durable, many colors/profiles (flat, “roll,” Spanish S, barrel). Heavy—verify structural capacity. Various attachment methods (mortar, screws, foam adhesives) have specific Product Approvals and wind‑uplift ratings.
Metal: Panels (e.g., “Key West” look) or metal shingles that mimic shakes/tile; lightweight; often Class A fire; long life; strong wind resistance; visually versatile.
Wood Shingles/Shakes: Cedar, rustic appearance; less common in South Florida; fire ratings vary and local codes may restrict use.
Slate: Premium, long‑lived, skill‑dependent installation; higher cost.
Synthetics/Composites: Simulate slate/wood; properties vary—review approvals, testing, and warranties.