Your Ultimate Guide to the Different Types of Roof Shingles

Q: How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine. Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

Q: 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.

Q: Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery , you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

October 9, 2019•3 min read•

Roofing Materials

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The median cost of a house in the United States is over $200,000. That’s roughly twice what it was fifty years ago. With such a big investment, protecting your home with the right roofing system is crucial—starting with the right type of shingle.

Roof shingles might seem like a small detail, but they’re a vital part of your roof. As the outermost layer, shingles defend against water intrusion, UV rays, wind uplift, and even energy loss. Selecting the right type of roof shingle can impact not only your home’s appearance but also its long-term performance and value.

Let’s explore some of the most popular types of roof shingles used in Florida and across the U.S., and help you decide what might be best for your home.

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1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common and budget-friendly option. They come in two main types: three-tab shingles and architectural (dimensional) shingles.

They’re composed of fiberglass matting coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. The asphalt offers waterproofing, while the ceramic granules deflect UV rays to reduce heat absorption. This makes them a reliable, affordable choice—especially in climates like Sarasota where moderate rainfall and intense sunlight are common.

Asphalt shingles typically last 15–30 years depending on the product line and installation quality. For homeowners looking for balance between performance and cost, this is one of the best roofing materials available.

2. Metal Shingles

Metal roofing shingles are gaining popularity for their durability, longevity, and energy efficiency. They reflect solar heat, helping to keep your attic cooler and your energy bills lower—a major benefit in hot Florida climates.

While they’re more expensive up front, they last 40–70 years and are highly resistant to fire, mold, mildew, and insects. However, some types of metal can be noisy during rainstorms and may dent during hail events.

Interested in eco-friendly options? Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are themselves recyclable. Learn more about sustainable roofing in our green roofing guide.

3. Wood Shingles

Wood shingles and shakes offer a classic, rustic aesthetic. Often made from cedar or redwood, they provide good insulation and blend well with natural surroundings.

However, they’re not ideal for humid, storm-prone regions like Florida. Wood is vulnerable to rot, termites, and mold unless regularly treated and maintained. They are also not fire-resistant without chemical treatment. While undeniably beautiful, wood shingles are high-maintenance and not commonly recommended for Gulf Coast homes.

4. Other Types of Shingles to Consider

Beyond the big three, there are other roofing shingle options:

Slate shingles: Extremely durable and elegant, but heavy and expensive. Requires reinforced roof structure.
Clay or concrete tiles: Great for Spanish-style homes and very durable, but also heavy and costly.
Synthetic shingles: Mimic slate, wood, or tile but are lightweight and more affordable. Often made from rubber or plastic composites.

Which Roof Shingles Are Right for Your Home?

When choosing the best shingles for your home, consider your budget, maintenance expectations, and local weather conditions. In Florida, durability, UV protection, and resistance to wind and moisture are key priorities.

If you’re not sure which direction to go, we can help. At SonShine Roofing, we specialize in roof replacement services that suit Sarasota’s climate and your specific needs.

Let Us Help You Choose the Best Roofing Material

Your home deserves the best protection. Whether you’re leaning toward affordable asphalt, long-lasting metal, or another type of roof shingle, our experienced team is here to help.

Want to learn more about the parts of your roof and how shingles play a role in your roofing system? Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule a consultation.

General 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 causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal.

Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water.

Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.
Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.
Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms.
Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events.
Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster.
Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below.
Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss.
Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

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.