Choosing the right roofing material is a big decision for Florida homeowners. With high heat, tropical storms, and insurance concerns, your roof needs to do more than just look good—it has to perform. Two of the most popular options are metal and asphalt shingles, and both have strong advantages depending on your budget, style preferences, and long-term plans.

So, let’s break down the pros and cons of metal vs. shingle roofing in Florida, helping you choose what’s best for your home.

💰 Cost: Shingles Win Upfront, But Metal May Win Over Time

Asphalt shingles are the more affordable option upfront. They typically cost $4.50–$6.50 per square foot installed, depending on the style and brand.

Metal roofs, on the other hand, usually range from $8–$14 per square foot, depending on the type of metal and design (standing seam, exposed fastener, etc.).

🛠️ Pro tip: Metal roofs often last 2–3x longer than shingles, making them more cost-effective over 30+ years.

🏠 Aesthetics: Both Offer Style, But It’s a Personal Call

Shingle roofing is available in dozens of colors and textures, often designed to mimic more expensive materials like slate or wood shake. Shingles blend into most neighborhoods and HOA guidelines with ease.

Metal roofing has come a long way. Today, you can find sleek, modern finishes or textured coatings that look like traditional materials. However, some communities still see metal roofs as “industrial” or “farmhouse” style.

👉 Verdict: If curb appeal in a traditional neighborhood matters most, shingles may edge out metal. But for modern or coastal designs, metal is a showstopper.

☀️ Energy Efficiency: Florida Heat Favors Metal

Metal roofs reflect solar heat, keeping your attic and home cooler during scorching Florida summers. Many metal roofs are ENERGY STAR® certified and can reduce cooling costs by up to 25%.

Shingles, especially darker ones, absorb heat. Some energy-efficient shingles exist, but they don’t reflect sunlight as effectively as metal.

🏆 Winner: Metal roofs are the clear choice for energy savings in Florida’s hot, humid climate.

⛈️ Durability: Metal Is Built to Withstand Florida Weather

Shingles have a lifespan of 15–25 years, depending on quality and maintenance. They can be damaged by wind uplift and hail, especially during tropical storms or hurricanes.

Metal roofs can last 40–70 years, are fire-resistant, and hold up better against high winds (often rated to withstand 140+ mph). They’re also far more resistant to mold, mildew, and algae—common issues in Florida.

🌪️ Insurance Bonus: Florida insurers may offer discounts for metal roofs because of their storm resistance and long-term performance.

 

✅ Metal vs. Shingle Roofing in Florida: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Metal Roof	Shingle Roof
Upfront Cost	Higher – $8–$14 per sq. ft. installed	Lower – $4.50–$6.50 per sq. ft. installed
Lifespan	40–70 years	15–25 years
Energy Efficiency	High – reflects solar heat, may reduce cooling bills by up to 25%	Moderate – some reflective options available but less effective
Storm Resistance	Excellent – withstands high winds (140+ mph), impact-resistant	Good – can suffer from wind uplift and hail damage
Maintenance Needs	Low – resistant to mold, mildew, algae	Moderate – may require cleaning, moss/algae treatment, and periodic repairs
Insurance Discounts	Often qualifies for wind mitigation credits in Florida	May qualify, but depends on type and installation
Curb Appeal	Modern or coastal homes – sleek finishes available	Traditional look – wide variety of styles and colors
Weight	Lightweight – ideal for many roof structures	Heavier – can place more strain on older home structures
Noise During Rain	Louder (unless insulated underlayment is used)	Quieter – natural sound dampening
Installation Time	Longer and more specialized – requires experienced installers	Faster and more widely available installation teams

📝 Quick Takeaway

• Choose metal roofing if you’re looking for long-term durability, better energy performance, and strong storm resistance.
  
• Choose shingles if you’re on a tighter budget, need a traditional look, or plan to sell the home within the next 10–15 years.
  

Need help deciding what roofing system works best for your Florida home?

At The Best Roofs, we provide transparent recommendations, expert installations, and full support for both metal and asphalt shingle roofing options.

👉 Schedule Your Free Roofing Consultation Today@