Let’s talk about why it might be a big deal…

I would like to take a few minutes to talk about roofs in Florida and why it’s such a big deal. I’m sure this will answer many of your questions. Let’s start with the fact that we live in what is a very intense environment for roof systems. For the purpose of clarification, when we say “roofs” what we are actually referring to is roof “coverings” and not the structure that supports the covering. A roofing contractor by defined limits of their license type are not able to build or repair the structural components, rafters, and trusses. That requires a general contractor or similar license.

Okay, so why are they a big deal? To start with, new roof covering requirements are often taken to their limits here due to the high wind resistance needed as well as the water resistance of the whole system. If you would like to learn more about wind zones, & building codes check out our other videos on hurricanes and wind zones and Florida building code.

To say it simply…

…insurance companies have become very resistant to covering groups because they don’t want to buy any more replacement. That being said, it’s the expected designed useful lifespan of both the covering as well as the underlayment that is being looked at along with the material and condition. More to the point is the underlayment that is primary importance in the regard they are qualified as either a secondary water- resistant layer or a secondary water barrier. SWF here the primary difference is that the underlayment is applied with adhesive and is it applied directly to the sheeting or not. However, there are other ways of getting an swr rating such as closed cell foam spray or seam taping.

So where does that leave us? Well, the best underlayments are listed as having a designed useful lifespan of 25 years maximum. If your roof is at or approaching that age it is likely due for replacement and will likely no longer be insurable here in southwest Florida, where requirements are high, so are the prices. The average two thousand to twenty-five hundred square foot home under shingles is about $15,000 to re-roof and that same house under tile is about $35,000 or more. So that’s a big deal and should not be overlooked. And don’t forget that just because it’s new doesn’t mean it was installed correctly!