If you’re replacing a roof in Florida, the choice usually comes down to two options: traditional asphalt shingles or clay/concrete tile. Both are common across Central Florida, both can handle our climate, and both have loyal homeowners who swear by them. The right choice depends less on which is “better” and more on your budget, your home’s structure, and what you actually want out of the next 20-plus years.
Lifespan
Asphalt shingles in Florida typically last 15 to 25 years depending on the product quality and how well the roof was ventilated and installed. Tile roofing, by contrast, can last 50 years or more — the tiles themselves rarely wear out, though the underlayment beneath them (which is what actually keeps water out) usually needs replacement around the 20 to 25 year mark, even though the tile on top still looks brand new.
Cost
This is where the decision usually gets made. A quality asphalt shingle roof typically costs significantly less installed than a comparable tile roof. Tile requires reinforced roof framing to handle the extra weight (concrete tile can weigh three to four times what asphalt shingles weigh per square foot), specialized installation labor, and more time on the job. For many homeowners, the upfront cost difference is the deciding factor.
Hurricane and Wind Performance
- Shingles — Modern architectural shingles rated for Florida wind zones perform well in most storms, but individual shingles can lift or blow off in extreme wind events.
- Tile — Properly installed and fastened tile holds up extremely well in high wind, though individual tiles can crack from wind-driven debris impact and need to be replaced.
- Both — Regardless of material, the underlayment and fastening system matter more for storm performance than the surface material itself.
Which Should You Choose?
If your home already has tile roofing and the structure is built to support it, replacing like-for-like is usually the right move — a full switch to shingle would look out of place and may not be worth the savings. If you have a shingle roof and your framing wasn’t built for the extra weight of tile, upgrading typically requires a structural evaluation, which adds cost. For most standard residential replacements in Central Florida, asphalt shingle remains the more budget-friendly choice without a major sacrifice in performance when installed correctly.
Serving Orlando and Central Florida
Not sure which roofing material makes sense for your home and budget? Storm Contracting installs both tile and shingle roofing systems across Orlando, Sanford, Lake Mary, Winter Park, and surrounding Central Florida communities. Call us at 888-764-7663 or request a free estimate online.