For decades, tile roofing has been a hallmark of Florida neighborhoods. Its Mediterranean look and long lifespan made it the preferred option for many homeowners, especially in coastal communities. But in recent years, more Florida homeowners are making the switch to metal roofing, and the trend isn’t slowing down.
At American Family Roofing LLC, we’ve installed both tile and metal roofs across Pinellas County and beyond. While tile remains a great choice in some cases, more homeowners are asking for metal. Here’s why.
Superior Storm Resistance
Tile roofs are heavy and durable, but they can still crack or blow off in hurricane-force winds. A single broken tile can compromise the roof system and allow water intrusion.
By comparison, modern metal roofing systems are engineered to withstand winds of 140–180 mph, depending on the style and installation method. For homeowners along the Gulf Coast, this added security provides peace of mind during storm season.
Real Example: After Hurricane Ian, we inspected homes in Pinellas County. Tile roofs showed scattered breakage, while nearby homes with standing seam metal roofing were intact and watertight.
Lower Maintenance Requirements
Tile is long-lasting, but it can be fragile under foot traffic, requiring careful handling during inspections or repairs. Tiles also crack from falling branches or shifting over time.
Metal roofing, on the other hand, requires far less maintenance. With interlocking panels and corrosion-resistant coatings, issues are minimal—even in salty coastal air.
Energy Efficiency Advantages
Both tile and metal help with heat management, but metal has the edge in Florida’s hot climate. Modern metal roofing comes with reflective coatings that bounce solar heat away, keeping attics cooler and reducing cooling costs by up to 20–25%.
Tile roofs do provide natural airflow beneath the tiles, but they don’t reflect heat as effectively as energy-rated metal systems.
Lighter Weight = Less Stress on Structures
Tile roofing is heavy—sometimes requiring additional reinforcement during installation. This adds cost and complexity.
Metal roofing is much lighter, putting less stress on your home’s structure. For older homes or those not originally designed for tile, metal is often the smarter choice.
Insurance Incentives
Insurance companies recognize the storm resistance of metal roofing. In many cases, homeowners with metal roofs qualify for premium discounts after wind mitigation inspections. Tile offers durability but doesn’t always deliver the same insurance savings, especially when cracked or damaged tiles are found during inspections.
Style and Curb Appeal Options
One reason homeowners stuck with tile for so long was aesthetics. But today’s metal roofing comes in a wide variety of colors and profiles—some even designed to mimic tile or shake roofing. Homeowners get the look they want with the performance of metal.
Cost Comparison Over Time
While metal roofing may have a higher upfront cost than some tile options, the long-term return on investment is often greater. With fewer repairs, better energy efficiency, and longer lifespan, many Florida homeowners find that metal roofing pays for itself in savings over decades.
Tile roofing has served Florida homeowners well for generations—but in today’s climate, metal roofing is proving to be the better long-term investment. With its superior storm resistance, lower maintenance, energy efficiency, and insurance advantages, it’s no surprise more homeowners across Pinellas County and the Gulf Coast are choosing metal.
At American Family Roofing LLC, we help homeowners weigh the pros and cons of both systems to make the best choice for their home. Whether you’re replacing a tile roof or exploring metal for the first time, we’ll guide you through every option and ensure your home is storm-ready.
Thinking about replacing your tile roof with metal?
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and see why more Florida homeowners are making the switch.