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Due to extreme weather, salt air, hurricanes and humidity, roofs in South Florida tend to last about 20 to 30, years regardless of material. So how can you decide which roofing material is right for you? Replacing the roof on your home or your business is a big investment that you want to last for years to come. Traditionally, asphalt shingles are the least expensive sloped roofing option tile is the next most expensive, and standing seam metal is the most expensive. Single-ply or built-up roofing systems may also be a consideration for low-sloped sections of your property, whether it be a part of or the entire roof area. The price for any roofing system or combination of roofing system materials will vary based the size of your home or business, the unique details selected, and the architecture of the building. When selecting roofing material for your project, it is important to consider not just price alone, but also the characteristics of your structure and the overall look you desire.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a very cost-efficient roofing material. When applied correctly with synthetic felt underlayment, taping over joints and sheathing, and fastened with nails as opposed to staples, shingles can be a sturdy and long-lasting roofing system solution. A secondary water barrier is a popular option for additional underlayment that can further extend the life expectancy of a new asphalt shingle roofing system. While asphalt shingles can be a lesser cost roofing option compared to other systems, many companies now offer a wide array of premium shingles, such as dimensional and presidential shingles, that offer a high-end look. Dimensional shingles have a unique, layered appearance that mimics the look of wood shingles and adds a exceptional and distinctive look to your property. Presidential shingles offer additional beautiful choices, often mirroring the look of cedar shakes or slate tiles, for a fraction of the price.
Tile Roofing Systems
Cement and ceramic (clay) tile roofs are an excellent and sturdy roofing system option. Tile roofs are incredibly durable and are able to withstand high wind speeds and endure the humidity and heat of tropical climates. It is important to note that tile roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles and are not suited to all structures due to their heavy weight.
Tile roofing brings an individual and elegant look to your residence or business. Tiles are available in many colors and options to match the style and design of your home or business. Styles include flat interlocking tile, roll style mission tile and “S”-shaped Spanish tile. Other unique custom shapes and finishing pieces are available, as well. The various tile shapes and pieces include hundreds of colors, materials, blends, textures, and finishes, allowing your roof to make a statement of beauty, strength and elegance. In addition to machine-made tile, handmade clay tile offers a distinctive, premium aesthetic Tile offers an unmatched combination of design and durability, as well as the added benefits of being fire resistant, requiring little maintenance and being energy efficient and sometimes recyclable.
Metal Roofing Systems
A metal roof is a premium roofing system product that can be fashioned from a number of materials, but in South Florida, is most commonly fabricated from aluminum or galvalume, depending on the proximity to the ocean. Greater exposure to sea salt air necessitates use of aluminum that is more resistant to corrosion. In addition to the ever-popular standing seam design, metal roofing is now available in styles that resemble tile roofing materials, shingles, shakes or even slate. Metal is lightweight, so it is a great reroofing option for homes or businesses that were not designed to withstand the weight of tile. A properly installed metal roofing system can have life expectancy of up to 50 years.
Single-Ply Membrane
Single-ply membrane roofing systems are a popular choice for residential or commercial flat roof projects in tropical climates because they provide a sturdy, cost-effective, and energy-efficient roofing solution. Single-ply is most often used for large flat roofs with few mechanical systems or penetrations as pedestrian access or roof equipment can risk damaging the system. The white membrane material reflects heat and helps reduce energy consumption, and the durable material – usually TPO, EPDM or PVC – is sturdy enough to handle extreme heat and dynamic storm seasons in tropical settings. Single-ply roofing can be cost-effective to install and is rated for high wind speeds and offers superior waterproofing for flat roofing projects.
Built-Up Roofing Systems
Built-up roofing systems are crafted by alternating layers of asphalt or bitumen with reinforced felt. This unique layering process creates a flat roofing solution that is durable, water resistant and stands up against severe weather. In fact, these systems are typically considered to be the gold standard for flat roofing to provide the longest life expectancy. Built-up roofs can be self-healing and are rated for high wind and water protection. Built-up roofing offers superior strength, which makes it an excellent flat roof solution for the rainy season and severe weather situations common in tropical climates.
Custom roofing systems
Very often, the distinctive architecture at a home or business requires a combination of roofing materials and special trims to be used. A property may feature flat roof sections as well as steep slope areas that require a blend of flat roofing materials, sloped roofing systems (such as asphalt shingle, tile, or metal), and custom metal trims. A luxury residential or hotel roofing project may feature a rooftop entertainment deck with hot tubs or swimming pools that requires the application of a traditional roofing system, and special pavers that rim the pool and pedestrian access areas. Installation of these bespoke systems requires careful coordination between the roofing contractor and other contractors. Roofing system solutions can be customized to accommodate any unique architecture and any design and construction preferences of the customer.
Pioneer Roofing Company’s team of expert roofing specialists provide complete roofing solutions for all types of residential and commercial roofing projects. With more than 40 years of experience in South Florida, we employ only extremely experienced roofing professionals. We use the highest-quality materials. And we demand quality workmanship from our vendors and suppliers. We are passionate about quality and service.
Contact the team at Pioneer Roofing today to discuss repair, reroofing, new construction, or maintenance and extended service options for your South Florida home or commercial property. We proudly serve Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties.