Potential Changes Could Impact Your Business.
Florida officials are questioning whether asphalt shingles are fit for their state’s extreme conditions. Escalating homeowner insurance rates and the “Sunshine State’s” many non-sunshine weather events may put the popular roofing material on the chopping block.
Roofers, it’s time to prepare for potential changes and consider how they could impact your business.
Asphalt shingles cover over 70% of Gulf Coast homes due to their affordability and ease of installation. However, their performance during Florida’s hurricanes and tropical storms has raised concerns. While many asphalt shingles are rated to withstand winds up to 110 mph, their durability decreases over time, and older shingles often fail under the strain of severe weather. These failures contribute to frequent roof replacements and exacerbate the insurance challenges Florida homeowners face.
In response to these issues, Florida officials are advocating for more durable roofing materials. If you do business in Florida (or perhaps other states that may follow Florida’s lead), you should familiarize yourself with alternatives.
Metal roofs are known for exceptional durability and can withstand higher wind speeds and last longer than asphalt shingles. While installation costs are roughly 65% higher than asphalt shingles, their longevity and resistance to extreme weather often make them a worthwhile investment for homeowners in storm-prone areas.
Ceramic or concrete tile roofs offer impressive wind and fire resistance and can last over 50 years. However, they are heavier than other options, sometimes requiring structural reinforcement. Tile roofing typically costs about 50% more than asphalt shingles upfront.
While adopting more resilient roofing materials sounds great, the higher upfront costs are certain to cause resistance among property owners. Florida does have initiatives aimed at reducing the financial barriers while promoting long-term savings through lower insurance premiums and maintenance expenses. But what about you, the roofer? How will this impact your business?
As the roofing market evolves, you’ll need to adapt. Transitioning to materials like metal and tile requires specialized training, so consider investing in certifications that can give your business a competitive edge. While this can provide new opportunities, it can also present a drawback in that the longer-lasting materials may lead to fewer replacement projects. Diversifying your services to include inspections, maintenance, and storm-proofing upgrades could help offset this.
It’s a pivotal moment for Florida roofers, and for roofing pros in other states who understand the impact it could have on them (once a domino falls …). Our advice: stay informed about potential regulatory changes and market trends so you can not only weather this transition but thrive. By educating your clients about the benefits of durable roofing options and proactively offering these materials, you can position your business as a leader in a changing landscape.
To learn more about Marco, visit www.MarcoIndustries.com. To contact Marco directly, you can email or call 1-800-800-8590.
