Asphalt Shingles

Types Of Asphalt Shingles

In Florida, the highest-quality asphalt roofing options are Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles and Impact-Resistant Luxury Shingles. These are preferred for their superior durability, high wind resistance (110–130+ mph), and long lifespans ranging from 20 to 50 years.

While 3-tab shingles are still available, they are generally discouraged due to their lower wind resistance (around 60 mph) and shorter lifespan.

Key asphalt shingle options include fiberglass, algae-resistant, and Class 3 or Class 4 impact-resistant materials designed to withstand Florida’s harsh climate.

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles The most popular choice among homeowners, these shingles are laminated, thicker, and significantly more durable than traditional 3-tab options. With wind ratings of 110–130 mph, they are well-suited for Florida’s hurricane season.

Luxury (Premium) Shingles Designed to replicate the look of high-end materials like slate or cedar shakes, luxury shingles are the heaviest and most durable asphalt option. They offer enhanced curb appeal along with extended lifespans of 30–50 years.

Impact-Resistant Shingles Rated Class 3 or Class 4, these shingles provide superior protection against hail and wind-blown debris, making them an excellent choice for storm-prone areas.

3-Tab Shingles A more affordable, single-layer option with a typical lifespan of 10–15 years. Due to their lower wind rating of around 60 mph, they are not recommended for Florida homes.

Asphalt Shingles Replacement Process

Preparation and Tear-Off Once the dumpster is in place, our team removes the existing roofing materials. We then inspect the plywood decking for any signs of rot or damage and re-nail the deck to meet current Florida building codes and hurricane mitigation requirements. Puma Roofing does not recommend installing new shingles over existing ones, as this prevents proper inspection of the decking.

Waterproofing (Dry-In) This is a critical step in Florida’s climate. We install metal flashing along with a self-adhering modified bitumen membrane (ice and water shield) in all valleys, penetrations, and eaves. A high-quality synthetic underlayment is then applied across the remaining roof deck, offering superior protection compared to traditional felt paper.

Drip Edge and Starter Shingles A metal drip edge is installed along the eaves and rakes—often sealed with roofing cement—to prevent water intrusion. Starter shingles with built-in adhesive strips are installed along the roof edges to help prevent wind uplift.

Material Selection Architectural (dimensional) shingles are the standard choice in Florida due to their layered construction and higher wind resistance (up to 130+ mph), making them far more durable than traditional 3-tab shingles.

Shingle Installation Shingles are installed using precise nailing patterns that often exceed manufacturer requirements to maximize wind resistance and overall performance.

Nailing Requirements Florida building code requires the use of galvanized steel or stainless steel nails of specific lengths. In High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), shingles are typically secured with six nails instead of four for increased wind resistance.

Ventilation and Finishing Proper ventilation is achieved by installing ridge vents to promote airflow and reduce heat buildup. Ridge cap shingles are then applied to all roof peaks for a secure, finished look and added wind protection.

Clean-Up We take pride in leaving your property spotless. A custom oversized magnet is used to collect nails and debris, and the entire perimeter is carefully inspected to ensure a clean and safe environment.

Weather Sealing After installation, shingles naturally seal using the sun’s heat, creating a strong, waterproof bond.

Timeframe Most asphalt shingle roof replacements are completed within 1 to 2 days, depending on the size and complexity of the roof.

Considerations for Florida Weather

• Wind Resistance: Architectural shingles are highly recommended over 3-tab for better wind resistance.
• Algae Resistance: High humidity causes algae, so look for shingles with stain protection (e.g., StainGuard Plus).
• Energy Efficiency: “Cool roof” shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight, lowering cooling costs.
• Recommended Brands: , brands in Florida include Atlas, GAF, Owens Corning, Certianteed
• Lifespan & Cost: Architectural shingles typically last 20–25 years (while luxury shingles can last 30–50 years)