Top 5 Roofing Materials for Homes in Tampa’s Humid & Storm-Prone Climate
Sep 19, 2024Is it time to replace the old and failing roof on your home in the Tampa, Florida, area? Choosing the right roofing material is important, as the local climate presents unique challenges, from high humidity to frequent storms and hurricanes. This guide will help you explore the top five roofing materials suitable for Tampa’s climate, so you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget.
Tampa’s Unique Climate & Weather Challenges
Tampa’s climate is defined by humid, subtropical conditions, which can take a toll on your roof over time. The area experiences long, hot summers with frequent thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and occasional hurricanes. High humidity levels also contribute to mold and algae growth, which can degrade certain roofing materials.
Additionally, Tampa is located in a storm-prone area, meaning that your roof needs to be resilient against fierce winds, torrential rain, and flying debris. The right roofing material must not only withstand these harsh conditions but also provide long-term protection without requiring frequent repairs.
Comparing the Top Roofing Materials for Tampa Homes
If your goal is to select the best roofing material for Tampa’s climate, you need to consider durability, performance, and cost. Here’s a look at the top roofing materials to consider:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials for homes in Tampa. They are cost-effective, easy to install, and provide good protection against heavy rain and moderate winds. High-quality asphalt shingles, such as Owens Corning products, are designed to resist mold and algae growth, which is important in humid climates.
- Durability – Moderate, typically lasting 20–30 years, but Owens Corning shingles offer extended durability.
- Climate performance – Good resistance to storms and rain, especially with reinforced shingles.
- Cost – Affordable, making them a budget-friendly option for many homeowners.
Tile
Tile roofing is known for its durability and ability to withstand Tampa’s challenging climate. Tile roofs, typically made of clay or concrete, offer excellent protection against severe winds, heavy rain, and intense sunlight.
- Durability – High, with a lifespan of 50 years or more.
- Climate performance – Excellent for both storms and heat but can be heavy and require structural reinforcement.
- Cost – More expensive upfront compared to asphalt shingles, but the long-term value is significant.
Metal
Metal roofing is another great option for Tampa-area homes. It provides exceptional durability and can resist wind speeds of up to 140 mph, making it ideal for storm-prone areas. Metal roofs also reflect heat, which can help reduce cooling costs during hot Florida summers.
- Durability – Impressively high, often lasting 50 years or more.
- Climate performance – Excellent in storms and heat, plus energy-efficient.
- Cost – More expensive than asphalt but less costly than tile in the long term.
Shake
Shake roofing, typically made from wood or synthetic materials, offers a distinctive aesthetic and strong resistance to wind and storm damage. However, natural wood shakes may require more maintenance in Tampa’s humid environment due to their susceptibility to moisture and mold. Synthetic shakes can be a better option, providing the same look with greater durability.
- Durability – Moderate to high, especially with synthetic shakes.
- Climate performance – Good in storms, but wood shakes may struggle with humidity.
- Cost – Generally higher than asphalt, but synthetic shakes can be a longer-lasting investment.
Roofing Done Wright’s Owens Corning Shingle Roofing Solutions
At Roofing Done Wright, we offer high-performance Owens Corning asphalt shingles specifically designed to handle Tampa’s demanding climate. Owens Corning shingles are known for their advanced durability, resistance to algae growth, and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
In addition to asphalt shingles, Roofing Done Wright also offers metal and shake roofing options, so you can choose the material that best suits your home and budget. Every roof installation we perform is backed by generous warranty protection from Owens Corning and Roofing Done Wright, so you can receive up to 50 years of protection and peace of mind.
Contact Us Today for a Free Roofing Estimate
Ready to choose the perfect roofing material for your Tampa home? Contact Roofing Done Wright today for a free estimate and expert advice on the best roofing solution for your needs.