When it comes to choosing the right roof for your home in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, or Hollywood, Florida’s intense heat, humidity, salt air, and hurricane threats all factor into the equation. At Lionz Roofing, we get one question more than almost any  other: Should I go with a metal roof or asphalt shingles?

Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your home and budget in Southeastern Florida. 

Why Your Roof Choice Matters in South Florida

Roofs in Southeast Florida don’t just have to look good. They need to perform. With frequent thunderstorms, high UV exposure, and hurricane-force winds, your roofing system is your home or business’s first line of defense.

We work with homeowners from Downtown Miami to West Palm Beach, and we always start by weighing key factors before finalizing a roof material:

1. Wind resistance
2. Lifespan
3. Energy efficiency
4. Upfront cost
5. Curb appeal
6. HOA or city code requirements

What Are Asphalt Shingle Roofs?

Shingle roofs, typically made of fiberglass and asphalt, are the most common residential roofing option in the U.S. In Florida, they’re favored for their affordability and decent durability.

Benefits of Shingle Roofs in South Florida:

• Affordable upfront cost – shingles are typically less expensive than metal per square foot.
• Quick installation – most homes in Miami-Dade or Broward can be re-roofed in 1–2 days.
• Easier repairs – damaged shingles can be replaced in sections.
• Color variety – tons of options to match your home’s exterior.
• Compatible with most HOAs – especially in neighborhoods like Weston, Parkland, or Coral Springs.

Drawbacks in Florida’s Climate:

• Shingles can absorb heat, raising your AC bills in places like Hollywood and Boca Raton.
• Prone to wind uplift, especially in high-velocity hurricane zones.
• Lifespan is typically 15–20 years, which may be shorter with heavy sun exposure.

What Are Metal Roofs?

Metal roofs, especially standing seam and aluminum, are becoming a go-to choice across coastal South Florida, from Key Biscayne to Boca Raton.

Why More South Florida Homeowners Are Choosing Metal Roofs:

• Hurricane resilience – Most metal systems can withstand 140+ mph winds.
• Heat reflection – Metal reflects UV rays, keeping homes cooler in the South Florida heat.
• Longevity – Metal can last 40–70 years with proper maintenance.
• Sustainability – Recyclable and often made from recycled materials.
• Insurance discounts – Some providers offer lower premiums for impact-rated metal roofs.

What to Consider:

• Higher upfront cost – Expect to pay more initially, but lower maintenance over time.
• May dent from debris from tree limbs and flying objects during tropical storms.
• Some HOAs restrict metal roofing aesthetics, though many newer systems are visually stunning.

Metal vs. Shingle Roofing: A Head-to-Head for Southeast Florida

Choosing between a metal roof and an asphalt shingle roof in places like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach comes down to a handful of critical factors: durability, energy efficiency, lifespan, cost, and local code requirements. Here’s how each roofing material stacks up when it comes to protecting your home in South Florida’s extreme climate:

Wind Resistance:

• Metal roofs are engineered to handle wind gusts of up to 140+ mph, making them an ideal choice for hurricane-prone areas like Boca Raton and Hollywood FL.
• Shingle roofs, even when rated for wind, are more vulnerable to uplift and damage during tropical storms or hurricanes.

Energy Efficiency:

• Metal reflects solar heat, helping reduce your home’s interior temperature and keeping cooling costs lower during those hot Miami summers.
• Shingles tend to absorb heat, which can increase your energy bills, especially in homes with poor attic ventilation.

Lifespan and Maintenance:

• A well-installed metal roof can last 40 to 70 years with minimal upkeep. This is ideal if you’re looking to stay in your home long term.
• Shingle roofs typically last 15 to 20 years and may require more frequent repairs or replacement in South Florida’s intense sun and rain.

Cost Considerations:

• Shingles are more budget-friendly upfront, making them a practical choice for homeowners watching their bottom line or planning to sell in a few years.
• Metal roofs come with a higher installation cost, but their longevity and low maintenance can offset that investment over time.

Insurance and ROI:

• Some insurance providers offer discounts on premiums for homes with impact-rated metal roofs.
• While shingles don’t usually come with the same benefits, they still offer decent resale value when well-maintained.

Noise and Aesthetics:

• Metal roofs can be louder during heavy rain, though proper underlayment minimizes the sound.
• Shingles offer a quieter roofing system and are often preferred in neighborhoods where a traditional look is expected.

Metal roofing offers unmatched durability and energy savings, while shingles win on affordability and easier repairs. The right choice depends on your budget, location, long-term plans, and the specific demands of your home and neighborhood.

What’s the Best Roof for Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm?

If you’re in Miami-Dade County, especially areas like Coral Gables or Hialeah, code requirements often demand high wind resistance—a big plus for metal. In cities like Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood, many homes are close to the coast, so salt air corrosion is a consideration. Aluminum metal roofs resist corrosion and offer decades of performance.

Shingle roofs are still a smart, budget-friendly choice for inland homes, first-time homebuyers, or rental properties in areas like West Palm Beach or Boca Raton. Just make sure your shingles meet Florida’s stringent wind uplift codes.

What Roof Type Do We Recommend?

At Lionz Roofing, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We inspect your home, factor in your budget, HOA, and location, then help you make the right call.

That said, here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Want a roof that lasts 50+ years? Go metal
• Tight budget or planning to move soon? Shingles are a solid option.
• Live near the coast or in a hurricane-prone area? Strongly consider metal.
• Need HOA approval in a gated community? Shingles may be easier.

Trust Southeastern Florida’s Local Roofing Pros

Whether you live in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, or Hollywood, we know Florida’s roofing challenges better than anyone. At Lionz Roofing, we treat your home like it’s our own, using top materials, expert craftsmanship, and clear communication every step of the way.

Need help deciding between metal roofing vs. shingles? Schedule your free roof assessment today. We’ll inspect, advise, and give you a detailed estimate. We’re here to help with your residential and commercial roofing projects. 

FAQ

1. What’s better for South Florida homes—metal roofs or shingle roofs?
Both roofing options have advantages, but metal roofs offer superior wind resistance, energy efficiency, and lifespan, making them ideal for hurricane-prone areas like Miami and Boca Raton. Shingle roofs, however, are more budget-friendly and easier to install or repair, which works well for homes in West Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale.

2. How do metal roofs perform in hurricanes compared to shingles?
Metal roofs in Florida are engineered to withstand wind speeds of 140+ mph, making them a top choice for coastal cities like Hollywood, FL. Shingle roofs, while rated for wind, are more prone to uplift and damage during tropical storms.

3. Are metal roofs more energy-efficient than shingles in South Florida?
Yes. Metal roofing reflects UV rays, helping keep homes cooler in the hot South Florida climate. This can significantly reduce AC usage in cities like Coral Gables, Hialeah, and Fort Lauderdale. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, absorb heat, which can increase cooling costs.4. How long do metal roofs last in Southeast Florida?
With proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, especially popular in areas like Key Biscayne and Boca Raton. In comparison, asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 20 years, especially under South Florida’s intense sun and rain.

4. How long do metal roofs last in Southeast Florida?
With proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, especially popular in areas like Key Biscayne and Boca Raton. In comparison, asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 20 years, especially under South Florida’s intense sun and rain.