Metal vs. Shingle Roofing in Florida: Complete Comparison Guide

Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions for Florida homeowners. Metal and asphalt shingles are the two most popular options. Here's everything you need to know to make the best choice for your home.

Cost Comparison

Upfront Investment

Asphalt Shingles:

• Standard 3-tab: $3.50 - $5.50 per sq ft installed
• Architectural: $4.50 - $7.00 per sq ft installed
• Designer/Premium: $7.00 - $12.00 per sq ft installed
• Average 2,000 sq ft roof: $9,000 - $14,000

Metal Roofing:

• Standing seam: $10 - $16 per sq ft installed
• Metal shingles: $8 - $14 per sq ft installed
• Stone-coated steel: $9 - $15 per sq ft installed
• Average 2,000 sq ft roof: $18,000 - $32,000

Long-Term Value

Lifespan:

• Asphalt shingles: 15-25 years in Florida
• Metal roofing: 40-70 years

Cost Per Year:

• Shingles: $450 - $900/year (assuming 20-year life)
• Metal: $300 - $600/year (assuming 50-year life)

Hurricane and Wind Resistance

Wind Ratings

Asphalt Shingles:

• Standard rating: 110-130 mph
• Impact-resistant: 130-150 mph
• Must be properly installed with 6-nail pattern
• Individual shingles can blow off in severe winds

Metal Roofing:

• Standing seam: 140-180 mph
• Interlocking panels resist uplift
• Entire roof system works together
• Superior performance in hurricanes

Impact Resistance

Asphalt Shingles:

• Class 4 impact rating available
• Can crack or dent from hail
• May need replacement after severe storms
• Insurance discounts available

Metal Roofing:

• Excellent impact resistance
• Dents may occur but function unaffected
• Stone-coated options hide minor dents
• Highest insurance discounts

Energy Efficiency

Heat Reflection

Asphalt Shingles:

• Absorb heat in Florida sun
• Attic temps can reach 150°F+
• Dark colors worst for heat
• "Cool roof" options available but limited

Metal Roofing:

• Reflects up to 70% of solar radiation
• Reduces attic temperature significantly
• Available in reflective coatings
• Energy Star certified options

Cooling Cost Savings

Annual Savings with Metal:

• 10-25% reduction in cooling costs
• $200 - $600/year typical savings
• Pays for itself over time
• Greater savings in south Florida

Maintenance Requirements

Asphalt Shingles

Regular Needs:

• Annual inspections recommended
• Granule loss monitoring
• Algae treatment every 2-3 years
• Individual shingle replacement as needed

Common Issues:

• Algae growth (black streaks)
• Wind damage requiring repairs
• Granule loss over time
• Cracking in heat

Maintenance Costs:

• $300 - $800 per year average
• More after storms
• Increases as roof ages

Metal Roofing

Regular Needs:

• Annual inspections recommended
• Minimal cleaning required
• Check fasteners every 5-10 years
• Touch up paint scratches if needed

Common Issues:

• Very few if properly installed
• Occasional fastener backup
• Minor scratches (cosmetic)
• Expansion/contraction noise initially

Maintenance Costs:

• $100 - $300 per year average
• Consistent over lifespan
• Fewer emergency repairs

Installation Considerations

Installation Time

Asphalt Shingles:

• 1-3 days for average roof
• Weather-dependent
• Can install year-round in Florida
• Many qualified contractors

Metal Roofing:

• 3-7 days for average roof
• Requires specialized skills
• More complex installation
• Fewer qualified installers

Installation Requirements

Asphalt Shingles:

• Standard installation process
• Most roofers experienced
• Fewer specialty tools needed
• Easy to match existing styles

Metal Roofing:

• Specialized training required
• Precise measurements critical
• Special tools and equipment needed
• Custom fabrication often needed

Aesthetics and Home Value

Curb Appeal

Asphalt Shingles:

• Traditional appearance
• Wide variety of colors and styles
• Matches most architectural styles
• Familiar to buyers

Metal Roofing:

• Modern or traditional styles available
• Can mimic tile, shake, or shingles
• Sleek contemporary look
• Growing popularity in Florida

Resale Value

Return on Investment:

• Shingles: 60-70% ROI at resale
• Metal: 85-95% ROI at resale
• Metal roofs attractive to buyers
• Premium materials command higher prices

Environmental Impact

Sustainability

Asphalt Shingles:

• 11 million tons in landfills annually
• Made from petroleum products
• Some recycling programs available
• Shorter lifespan = more replacements

Metal Roofing:

• 25-95% recycled content
• 100% recyclable at end of life
• Longer lifespan reduces waste
• Energy savings reduce carbon footprint

Insurance and Warranties

Insurance Discounts

Both Options:

• Impact-resistance discounts: 10-20%
• Wind mitigation discounts: 15-45%
• Combined savings significant

Metal Advantage:

• Typically qualifies for maximum discounts
• May reduce premiums by 30-35%
• Pays for difference over time

Warranty Coverage

Asphalt Shingles:

• Manufacturer: 20-50 years (prorated)
• Workmanship: 5-10 years typical
• Real-world coverage often limited

Metal Roofing:

• Manufacturer: 30-50 years (often non-prorated)
• Workmanship: 10-20 years typical
• Paint/finish: 25-40 years
• Better long-term protection

Best Choice for Different Situations

Choose Asphalt Shingles If:

• Budget is primary concern
• Planning to sell within 10 years
• Traditional look important
• Many roofing contractors in area
• Home value under $300,000

Choose Metal Roofing If:

• Long-term investment priority
• Maximum hurricane protection desired
• Energy savings important
• Staying in home 10+ years
• Home value over $400,000
• Environmental concerns

Florida-Specific Considerations

Coastal Areas

Salt Air Exposure:

• Metal: Choose aluminum or coated steel
• Shingles: Impact-resistant recommended
• Both: Regular inspections critical

Hurricane Risk:

• Metal significantly outperforms
• Shingles need premium installation
• Insurance costs favor metal

Inland Areas

Heat and Humidity:

• Metal's energy efficiency valuable
• Shingles need algae resistance
• Both need proper ventilation

HOA Restrictions

Check Before Deciding:

• Some communities restrict metal
• Color and style limitations
• May need approval for changes
• Get in writing before purchasing

Making Your Decision

Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. How long do I plan to stay in this home?
2. What's my total budget including long-term costs?
3. How important is hurricane protection?
4. Do I value energy efficiency?
5. What does my insurance offer for discounts?
6. Are there HOA restrictions?
7. What's my home's architectural style?

Get Professional Input

Free Consultation from ADL Roofing:

• Roof inspection and assessment
• Customized material recommendations
• Detailed cost comparison for your home
• Insurance discount information
• No-obligation quote

Our Recommendation

For most Tampa Bay homeowners, we recommend:

Budget-Conscious Choice:

• Class 4 impact-resistant architectural shingles
• Proper installation with 6-nail pattern
• Enhanced underlayment
• 10-20 year warranty

Long-Term Investment:

• Standing seam metal roofing
• Premium coating for energy efficiency
• Professional installation
• Maximum insurance discounts

Contact ADL Roofing at 813-812-4212 for a free consultation. We'll assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations based on your needs, budget, and goals.

Whether you choose metal or shingles, proper installation is critical in Florida. With over 10 years of experience and $2M liability coverage, we ensure your roof will protect your home for decades to come.