Quick answer: Shingle is the budget-friendly all-rounder, metal is the long-life, low-upkeep pick that sheds heat and heavy rain, and tile gives the classic Florida look and lasts a long time as long as the underlayment beneath it is maintained. All three can be installed for high wind when done right.
What to weigh first
In Florida your roof takes wind, moisture and UV all year, so start with durability against all three. Then think about energy efficiency and curb appeal.
Metal
Durable, energy efficient and a good fit for coastal areas, and it's recyclable. It costs more up front, and rain or hail can be louder without insulation.
Asphalt shingle
The most common roof around: budget friendly, lots of styles and a fast install. Heat is what shortens its life.
Tile
Concrete tile and composite tile both bring great curb appeal and stand up to weather. Composite tile gives you the look of clay or concrete with reduced weight, about the same as shingles. Tile costs more to install, the labor is intensive, and the weight of concrete may mean reinforcing the structure.
Composite
Blends materials to mimic wood, slate or tile at a better price. It's lightweight and resists rot, algae and UV. It has a slightly shorter track record, but it's high performance and low maintenance.
How they compare
A plain-English side-by-side. Exact pricing depends on your roof, so it's shown as relative cost.
| Shingle | Metal | Tile | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Typical life in Florida | About 15 yrs | Up to 50 yrs (standing seam) | About 25 yrs |
| Upkeep | Low to moderate | Standing seam: rinse twice a year. Exposed fastener: inspect every 7 yrs | Moderate (cracked tiles, underlayment) |
| Heat | Absorbs more | Reflects well (light colors) | Good thermal mass |
| Weight | Light | Lightest | Heavy (structure check) |
| Look | Classic, many colors | Modern or coastal | Classic Florida / Spanish |
Cost and your insurance
Although shingles tend to be less expensive upfront, currently the insurance company wants you to replace your shingle roof every 15 years. Most insurance companies will leave a tile roof for 25 years, and a coated standing seam metal roof can last for 50 years. Please check with your insurance company to verify what they allow.
Metal options
Exposed fastener is the least expensive initially, but will cost $3,000 to $5,000 every 10 years and should be inspected every 7 years. The fasteners get dry and break down. With a standing seam roof there is little to no maintenance other than rinsing it twice a year, and it can last up to 50 years, making it the least expensive if you think about it.
Which one fits you
Staying 20+ years and want low upkeep? Metal. Want the best value now? Shingle. Love the coastal look and have the structure for it? Tile.
HOAs and neighborhoods
Check your HOA's approved list first. We'll match it.