At Best Choice Roofing, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Northern Florida with roofing solutions built for the real-world conditions of our state. Between the high heat, humidity, salt air, and seasonal storms, the roofs here face a serious beating year-round. That’s why it’s crucial to understand which shingles offer true long-term value, not just in terms of durability, but also performance, energy efficiency, and return on investment.
As one of the best-rated roofing contractors in the region, we don’t just install any material. We specialize in asphalt shingles and offer four top-performing options: Three-tab shingles, architectural shingles, premium shingles, and impact-resistant shingles.
But not all shingles are created equal, and in Northern Florida, some last significantly longer than others.
Let’s explore the different types of roofing materials, how they perform in our local climate, and compare roofing materials to help you decide what is the best material for a roof in your neighborhood.
The Northern Florida Climate: What Your Roof Is Up Against
Roofs in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Gainesville, and surrounding areas must handle:
- Hot, humid summers with intense UV exposure
- Sudden downpours and tropical storms
- Occasional hail and strong winds
- Salt-laden air closer to the coast, which accelerates wear
Given these factors, the best roofing material is one that can withstand both moisture and heat without breaking down or warping prematurely.
That’s why asphalt shingles remain a popular choice, but picking the right type of asphalt shingle is key to maximizing lifespan and protecting your home.
Comparing the 4 Types of Asphalt Shingles We Offer
We often get asked, “What is the best material for a roof in Northern Florida?” The answer depends on your goals—whether you’re looking for budget-friendly, high-performance, or storm resistance. Let’s break it down:
1. Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Cost: Most affordable option
Performance: Decent in dry or mild climates, but can degrade faster in humid, storm-prone regions.
These flat, single-layer shingles are lightweight and cost-effective, but they offer the shortest lifespan in Northern Florida’s challenging conditions. We generally recommend these for short-term property holds or budget-conscious upgrades—not long-term protection.
2. Architectural Shingles
Lifespan: 25–30 years
Cost: Mid-range
Performance: Excellent in high-heat and variable weather
Architectural shingles are thicker, more layered, and far more durable than three-tab options. They also resist curling and moisture damage better, making them ideal for Florida homes. For homeowners looking for a combination of both price and performance, architectural shingles are often the best roofing material.
3. Premium Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan: Up to 40 years
Cost: Higher-end
Performance: High-end style with enhanced durability
Premium shingles are not only built to last longer but also add visual appeal with luxury textures and shapes that mimic slate or shake. If your home is exposed to strong sun and wind, or if you’re looking for a boost in curb appeal, premium shingles can offer exceptional ROI in Northern Florida.
4. Impact-Resistant Shingles
Lifespan: 30–50 years
Cost: Higher upfront investment
Performance: Superior storm resistance, wind-rated up to 130+ mph
Designed with reinforced materials to absorb impact, these shingles are ideal for hurricane-prone regions. In fact, if you’ve experienced hail, wind damage, or flying debris during storms, impact-resistant shingles may be the best roof material for your home.
Which Asphalt Shingle Lasts the Longest in Northern Florida?
In terms of sheer lifespan and performance under local conditions, impact-resistant and premium shingles lead the pack. However, architectural shingles are a strong, cost-effective middle ground for most Northern Florida homeowners.
When choosing the best option, consider:
1. Your home’s location (coastal vs inland)
2. Your exposure to wind and storms.
3. How long do you plan to stay in your home
To compare roofing materials even further and find what is the best roofing material overall, check out our full expert breakdown on the Best Choice Roofing website.
Trust Best Choice Roofing: Your Local Roofing Experts
We’ve helped thousands of homeowners throughout Northern Florida protect their homes with roofing built to last. Whether you’re replacing aging shingles or upgrading to a stronger material ahead of hurricane season, our experienced team is here to guide you.
We’ll inspect your roof, walk you through your options, and make sure your next roof is both durable and tailored to your climate.
Call us today or schedule your free inspection online. At Best Choice Roofing, we make roofing easy, stress-free, and built to last.
