If you’re a typical Florida homeowner in places like Daytona Beach or Winter Park and your asphalt shingle roof is nearing the end of its life, you might be wondering: Can I upgrade to a more durable material like metal or tile? The answer is YES…in many cases, you can absolutely replace a shingle roof with a metal or tile roof. But there are a few important factors to consider before making the switch.
Metal Roofs: A Popular Upgrade from Shingles
Switching from asphalt shingles to metal roofing is not only possible, it’s one of the smartest roofing upgrades you can make. Metal roofs offer:
- Exceptional longevity (40–70 years)
- Energy efficiency (reflects solar heat)
- Low maintenance
- Improved wind and fire resistance
In most cases, homes originally built with asphalt shingles can support a metal roof without structural modifications, especially if you’re installing a lightweight system such as standing seam or stone-coated metal. That said, we’ll make a thorough evaluation of your structure and even consult a structural engineer if necessary to see if there is any concern.
Tile Roofs: Beauty Comes with Weight
Clay or concrete tile roofs are a different story. While beautiful and durable, they are quite a bit heavier than shingles. Before replacing shingles with tile, a structural evaluation is required. Your roof framing may need to be reinforced to safely handle the load. If it’s something you’re considering, we’d be happy to take a look at your roof and help you work through feasibility of it.
In short:
- Shingle to Metal: Usually fine with engineer sign-off
- Shingle to Tile: Often needs structural upgrades
- Roof not built to handle the weight of tile? There are options! (Keep reading below)
The Best of Both Worlds: Metal That Looks Like Tile (or Wood)
Want the look of tile or shake without the extra weight or cost? At Eave & Gable Roofing, we offer premium metal roofing products that mimic the appearance of traditional materials, but with all the benefits of metal.
Here are a few of our favorite options:
Permatile
- Designed to look like Spanish clay tile
- Lightweight, weather-resistant, and energy efficient
- Ideal for homes seeking a distinctly Florida aesthetic
Decra®
- Stone-coated steel roofing
- Styles that resemble wood shakes, slate, or tile
- Outstanding durability and beautiful curb appeal
Unified Steel™ by Westlake
- Elegant profiles that mimic classic tile and shingle designs
- Backed by a 50-year warranty
- Lighter weight than real tile, with superior performance
These products allow homeowners to upgrade their shingle roofs to a high-end look without exceeding structural limits, and they perform beautifully in Florida’s challenging climate.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before upgrading from shingles to metal or tile, consider:
- Structural load. Especially if you’re considering tile
- Ventilation and underlayment requirements
- Roof pitch (some systems need a minimum slope)
- Cost vs. long-term value
- Aesthetic goals. Curb appeal matters!
Thinking About an Upgrade?
Whether you’re dreaming of a classic clay tile look or a sleek modern metal roof, Eave & Gable Roofing can help you find the right system for your home, your budget, and your vision.
We’ll walk you through:
- Engineering evaluations (if needed)
- Product options
- Permitting and code requirements
- Expert installation from a licensed, local contractor
Let’s turn your old roof into the last one you’ll ever need.
Contact us today for a free consultation.