Looking For Tile or Shingle Roof Repair?
Central Florida homeowners know: the sun is relentless, the rain pours constantly, and hurricanes…well, they don’t need a description.
With weather that extreme and varied, your roof takes a beating. So when it’s time for a repair, the big question is: should you stick with tile or go with shingles?
Let’s break it down by checking the facts, costs, pros, cons, and maybe even a lame attempt or two at humor.
What’s the Difference Between Tile and Shingle Roofs?
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs, usually made of clay or concrete, are known for their durability and Mediterranean charm. They’re heavy, sturdy, and can last 50+ years with proper maintenance. This type of roof is extremely popular in The Villages town squares.
Pros of tile roofs:
- Long lifespan
- Fire-resistant
- Great for hot climates (good thermal insulation)
- Boosts curb appeal
Cons of tile roofs:
- Heavier structure requires stronger support
- More expensive upfront and to repair
- Fragile: walking on them is like walking on eggshells
Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs, typically asphalt shingles, are the most common roofing type in Florida as well as the rest of the U.S.
Pros of shingle roofs:
- Lower installation and repair costs
- Lightweight
- Easier and faster to install
- Variety of styles and colors
Cons of shingle roofs:
- Shorter lifespan (15–30 years)
- Less durable in extreme weather
- More prone to algae and mold in humid climates
*** Tile roofs can withstand winds up to 125 mph, while shingles generally max out around 110 mph, depending on the type.
Tile Roof Repair Costs vs. Shingle Roof Repair Costs in Ocala and the surrounding area. 
So how much money are we talking about when it comes to repairing your roof?“
| Roof Type | Average Repair Cost (Florida) |
|---|---|
| Tile Roof | $900 – $2,500 per repair |
| Shingle Roof | $300 – $1,000 per repair |
“Tile roof repair in Florida costs roughly 2–3 times more than shingle repair due to material expense and labor complexity,” says Angie’s List.
Why so much more for tile? There are a few reasons:
- Tiles break easily during repair.
- Matching discontinued tile styles is like finding a needle in a haystack.
- Specialized skills and tools are required for installation.
So the verdict is that shingles repairs are faster, cheaper, and replacements are widely available.
How Do Tile and Shingle Roof Repairs Work?
Let’s Take A Look At The Tile Roof Repair Process
- Inspect and locate damaged tiles
- Carefully lift surrounding tiles to access the underlayment
- Replace damaged tiles
- Seal and resecure surrounding tiles
***But be careful, one wrong step, and you might break more tiles than you fix!
What About Shingle Roof Repair Process
- Identify damaged shingles
- Pry up and remove affected shingles
- Install new shingles and seal edges
***Shingle repairs generally take half the time of tile repairs and require less precision.
How Long Do Roof Repairs Last?
After repair, tile roofs can last 10–20 years (if only a small section was replaced). Shingle repairs will usually last 5–10 years before another touch-up is needed, depending on Florida’s weather.
Key Facts:
- Tile roofs are more repair-resistant but longer-lasting
- Shingle roofs are easier to repair but require more frequent maintenance
Insurance & Warranty: Is One Florida Roof Type Better Covered?
Here’s where things get bureaucratic (and a little annoying): insurance companies in Florida tend to favor shingle roofs for replacements, but tile roofs may hold higher insured value due to material cost.
Most shingle manufacturers offer 20–30-year warranties, while tile manufacturers stretch warranties up to 50 years or more. But remember: warranties often cover defects, not hurricane-force winds that toss trees and other debris onto your roof like a game of cornhole.
Learn more from the Florida Department of Financial Services on insurance claims and roofing coverage.
Which Roof Type Handles Florida’s Heat and Hurricanes The Best?
In Central Florida’s strong sun, tile roofs naturally reflect more heat resulting in your A/C working less.
In hurricane force winds, tile roofs perform slightly better, but once a tile goes flying, it can actually damage more surrounding tiles and pose a safety risk.
Shingle roofs are easier to patch up after a storm but lose granules faster in UV exposure, reducing their lifespan.
Some HOAs in The Villages or Ocala might also restrict your roofing options, so make sure to check your bylaws before chasing that Spanish villa look!
When Should You Repair vs. Replace?
Repair your tile roof if:
- Damage is isolated
- Tiles are still widely available
- Underlayment is intact
Replace your tile roof if:
- 20–30% of tiles are damaged
- Finding matching tiles is impossible
- Leaks keep returning despite fixes
Repair your shingle roof if:
- Damage is limited to small sections
- Shingles are under 10–15 years old
Replace your shingle roof if:
- Shingles are curling, cracking everywhere
- Missing granules expose multiple bald spots
- Roof is nearing end of warranty
So Which Roof is Better for Folks in Florida?
If you value longevity and aesthetics, tile roofs win (but expect pricier, trickier repairs).
If you prefer affordability and easier maintenance, then shingle roofs are the answer.
***Bottom line: “better” depends on your budget, home design, and tolerance for future repairs.
Need a Roof Inspection or Repair Quote?
Don’t wait until your ceiling leaks on your dinner guests. Schedule a professional roof inspection today to catch small problems before they become big ones.
Contact Thomas Roofing of Central Florida in Ocala, The Villages, or Leesburg for a free estimate.
