Trust Roofing
ClaimServices: Roof repair & replacement, Leak repair, Gutter installation, +4 more
The 30-Second Verdict
Florida's roof-insurance crisis has reshaped the math. <strong>Asphalt shingles</strong> are cheapest ($11k–$18k for 2,000 sq ft) and the FL builder default — but carriers now scrutinize roofs older than 15 years and some refuse to insure 20+ year old asphalt at all. <strong>Metal roofs</strong> ($22k–$38k installed) last 40–70 years and earn the biggest post-Ian carrier-acceptance edge — many carriers now PREFER metal for new policies. <strong>Tile</strong> ($28k–$50k) is the resale-value champion, especially in south FL, but heavier (requires structural review) and slower to install. For 5–10 year ownership: asphalt. 10–25 year: metal. Forever home in south FL: tile.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Metal Roof
Pros
- Cheapest upfront: $11,000–$18,000 for 2,000 sq ft FL home
- Fastest install: 1–3 days
- Every FL roofer can install it
- Easy to repair single-shingle damage
Cons
- Shortest lifespan: 12–20 yrs in FL UV/storms
- Florida insurers tightening underwriting on >15 yr asphalt
- Lowest insurance wind-mit discount
- Lowest resale value boost
Asphalt/Tile
Pros
- Metal: 40–70 yr lifespan, insurance-preferred post-Ian
- Metal: Highest wind-mit discount (130–180 mph rated)
- Tile: 40–50 yr lifespan, best resale value in S. FL
- Tile: Premium aesthetic, southern-FL signature
- Both: Better hurricane performance than asphalt
Cons
- Metal: $22k–$38k installed (2× asphalt)
- Metal: Loud during heavy rain (need underlayment)
- Tile: $28k–$50k installed (2.5–3× asphalt)
- Tile: Heavy — may require structural review on older homes
- Tile: Slower install (5–10 days)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metal Roof | Asphalt/Tile | |
|---|---|---|
| 2,000 sq ft FL install cost | $11k–$18k | Metal $22k–$38k; Tile $28k–$50k |
| Florida Lifespan | 12–20 years | Metal 40–70; Tile 40–50 |
| Insurance Wind-Mit Discount | Modest | Metal: Highest; Tile: High |
| Carrier Acceptance (Post-Ian) | Tightening past 15 yrs | Metal: Preferred; Tile: Accepted |
| Install Time | 1–3 days | Metal 3–6; Tile 5–10 |
| FL Resale Value Add | $0 (expected) | Metal +$10k–$15k; Tile +$15k–$25k |
| Hurricane Performance | Good if rated | Both: Excellent |
| Best for | 5–10 yr ownership, budget priority | Metal: 10–25 yr, insurance edge; Tile: Forever S. FL home |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metal really insurance-preferred now?
Yes — since Ian and Milton, multiple FL carriers (Citizens, Universal, ASI, Heritage) have published underwriting preferences for standing-seam metal over asphalt for new policies. Some carriers offer 5–10% additional premium discount on metal vs asphalt at equivalent wind ratings. This is a 2024–2026 shift driven by metal's longer post-storm survival rate.
Is metal too loud during FL summer storms?
Properly installed metal roofs are NOT noticeably louder than asphalt. The trick is: continuous deck (plywood or OSB, not over open purlins) + a synthetic underlayment + foam-closure trim. Done right, you hear rain hit metal at about the same dB as rain on shingles. Open-purlin metal barns ARE loud — that's where the myth comes from.
What about clay tile vs concrete tile?
Both are 'tile.' Clay tile is the premium product — terra-cotta color holds 50 years, lifespan 50+. Concrete tile is cheaper ($28k–$38k vs $35k–$50k) and 40-year lifespan. In Florida, concrete tile fades faster in UV. For South FL Spanish or Mediterranean aesthetic, clay tile is the spec. For inland FL or northern half of the state, concrete tile is fine.
Can I switch from asphalt to metal at next replacement?
Yes — and most FL roofers welcome the conversion. The decking is the same, ridge venting is similar. Cost is the only real friction. If you're getting an insurance-driven replacement after a storm, ask your carrier if they'll pay the difference toward metal — many will fund the upgrade now to avoid future claims.
Top-Rated Local Florida Roofing Alternatives
You don't have to pick a national brand. These Florida-based roofing companies have the highest real Google ratings in our directory — often at a fraction of the franchise price.
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Services: Roof repair & replacement, Leak repair, Gutter installation, +4 more
Services: Roof repair & replacement, Leak repair, Gutter installation, +4 more