Roof Replacement
How do you know if you need a roof replacement?
The thought of replacing your roof may feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Our Roofing Specialists and Production Team will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and be available to you even after your new roof is completed.
Workmanship warranties are available on all of our roof replacements. SonShine offers coverage ranging from 6 to 25 years, depending on the materials you choose when building your new roof.
Prefer monthly payments? Explore our flexible financing options.
Explore financingWhat Should You Know Before Getting a Roof Replacement?
Know Your Contractor
SonShine Roofing is licensed by the State of Florida as a roofing contractor and is fully insured. While state law requires roofers to carry a valid license and insurance, neither guarantees quality workmanship, real experience, or a long-lasting roof.
We bring over 50 years of combined expertise and hands-on experience to your real-world roofing needs. Our roofing crews are true employees of SonShine Roofing—not subcontractors—and we invest in their ongoing roofing education to keep pace with evolving industry standards.
Know What Materials You Need
There are many roofing material options available to choose from, and we’re here to help you determine what’s best for your home. As with any roof replacement or home improvement project, material selection plays a key role in the lifespan and performance of your roof.
Elements like the type of nails used, quality of the underlayment, and balanced, efficient attic ventilation all contribute to a successful roof system. At SonShine Roofing, we take the time to walk you through every material option and answer your questions thoroughly.
It’s not just about the materials themselves — proper installation is equally important. Our experienced team ensures that every component is installed to the highest standard for long-term durability and protection.
Know What Warranties Come with Your New Roof
There are usually two types of warranty that come with your new roof: workmanship and manufacturer.
Workmanship Warranty
The vast majority of roof failures are caused by poor workmanship, and often you won’t notice these errors for many years down the line without yearly inspections.
This is why it is important to seek out roofers who stand behind their work with extended workmanship warranties and have a long-standing reputation. This ensures that you won’t be on the hook for costly repairs that are not your fault.
Depending on your roof and warranty package, you can enjoy up to 30 years of workmanship coverage with SonShine Roofing.
Manufacturer Warranty
Many roofing materials also come with warranties directly from the manufacturer that protect against product defects. That being said, such defects are incredibly rare with reputable vendors such as GAF, Eagle Tile, Westlake Royal Roofing, Polyglass USA, Crown Tile, and Sunshine State Metals.
These warranties typically last for decades, some even up to 50 years on more durable materials such as metal or tile.
Important Note
As with any contract, always read the fine print before you sign. Be aware that warranties typically do not cover anything considered beyond “normal wear and tear.”
For example, if a tree falls on your roof during a hurricane, that is neither the manufacturer’s nor the roofer’s fault. Ideally this sort of event would be covered by your insurance company.
Know the Importance of Roof Maintenance
A roof replacement is a major investment—but that doesn’t mean your new roof is “set it and forget it.” Regular maintenance is the key to protecting your roof’s longevity and your home’s safety. Even the highest quality roofing materials need routine care to withstand Florida’s heat, storms, and humidity. Without regular checkups, small issues like clogged gutters or cracked flashing can quickly snowball into expensive repairs or premature failure.
At SonShine Roofing, we’ve seen it all—shingles lifted by summer storms, debris buildup that traps moisture, and flashing that’s been slowly leaking for months. The good news? These are all preventable with the right maintenance plan. We recommend annual inspections and seasonal touch-ups to keep your roof performing like it should.
Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your roof but also preserves your warranty, safeguards your home’s structure, and helps you avoid the stress of emergency repairs. Whether your roof is brand new or pushing its limits, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve—because since 1987, we’ve got you covered.
Annual inspections keep warranties valid and catch small issues before they become leaks.
Know What to Expect
Permits & Scheduling — We file permits and set your installation date.
Site Prep — Protect landscaping & home exterior.
Tear‑off & Inspection — Remove old materials, inspect decking.
Install New Roof — Underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and finish roof.
Final Inspection & Cleanup — Ensure quality and clean the site.
Warranty & Maintenance — Provide warranty info and maintenance tips.
Repair vs. Replace
When Repair Makes Sense
The damage is localized
A few missing shingles, a small leak, or minor flashing issues can often be fixed without needing a full tear-off.
The roof is relatively new
If your roof is under 10–12 years old and generally in good shape, targeted repairs can extend its life without breaking the bank.
You’re not seeing recurring issues
If this is your first leak or concern—and not part of a pattern—repairing the trouble spot may be all that’s needed.
Your budget is tight (but the roof still has life)
Repairs can be a cost-effective short-term solution when full replacement isn’t financially feasible—just know it’s a Band-Aid, not a cure-all.
You need to buy time for other priorities
Selling soon? Planning a full remodel later? Repairs can bridge the gap while keeping your home protected and insurable.
When Replacement is Better
The roof is nearing the end of its lifespan
Most shingle roofs last 15–25 years. If yours is in that range (or older), a full replacement may be smarter than patchwork repairs.
You’re seeing widespread damage
Curling shingles, granule loss, sagging areas, or multiple leaks suggest structural wear that a patch can’t fix.
There’s repeated or chronic leaking
If you’ve had more than one leak in different areas, it usually means the whole system is breaking down—not just one bad spot.
Storm damage is severe or insurance-covered
After a hurricane or major windstorm, replacing the roof might be your best route—especially if a public adjuster confirms your policy will cover it.
You want to boost home value or energy efficiency
A new roof adds curb appeal, resale value, and can even reduce insurance premiums—especially with updated underlayments and ventilation.
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Roof Replacement FAQs
Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?
Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out.
How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?
- Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting.
- Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling.
- Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials.
- Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices.
- Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.
What’s my next step if I’m unsure?
Schedule a professional inspection. Our Sarasota-based team weighs age, damage, storm history, and efficiency goals, then gives you a clear recommendation you can trust.
Is replacement always more expensive in the long run?
Upfront, yes. Over time, not necessarily. Repeated fixes on an aging roof can outpace the cost of a new, warrantied system that also boosts curb appeal and home value.
What should I consider before choosing my roof material?
Start with weather + exposure (wind zone, rain frequency, salt air), then weigh budget vs. lifespan, maintenance expectations, and structure (some materials—clay/slate—may require reinforcement). If you want cooler interiors, factor in heat reflectivity (metal) and long-term energy savings. Not sure which way to go? A local inspection and consult will align materials with your home’s design, structure, and neighborhood conditions—so you’re not just buying a roof, you’re buying fewer headaches.
What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?
There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.
Do you offer financing or detailed estimates?
Yes—transparent estimates and financing options help you pick the right path for your budget, without guesswork. See our financing page for more information.
Can a new roof improve energy efficiency?
Yes. Older roofs often lack modern ventilation/reflective materials. If hot-house bills are rising, a strategic repair or ventilation upgrade might help—but if roof issues are broad, an energy-efficient replacement is the better investment.
