4 Reasons to Avoid Black Shingles in Florida

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Alex Sparks
Alex Sparks
Updated - October 17, 2024

Black shingles on your house may look sleek and modern, but in Florida's hot and humid climate, they can be a costly and troublesome choice. Below are five reasons you should consider not choosing black shingles.

Excessive Heat Absorption

An attic that is too hot is caused by dark-colored shingles absorbing a lot more sunlight than lighter ones. Your energy costs may rise significantly as a result of your air conditioner running nonstop to chill your house. Furthermore, extreme heat might harm your roof's components and reduce their lifespan. Black roofs can be up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than lighter-colored ones, according to studies.

Fading and Degradation

Black shingles may eventually fade and deteriorate due to Florida's strong sunlight. This deteriorates your roof's aesthetic attractiveness as well as its ability to shield your house from the weather. Shingles with lighter hues typically hold their color better and are less likely to fade.

Algae Growth

The warm, humid weather in Florida is perfect for the growth of algae on roofs. More significantly than just being unsightly, algae can harm your shingles and the underlying structure of your roof. Because of their dark tint, which fosters an atmosphere that is conducive to the formation of algae, black shingles are especially vulnerable to this phenomenon.

Higher Insurance Costs

Black roofs are more likely to absorb heat and sustain damage, which raises the cost of homeowners insurance. Black shingles may be seen by insurance companies as a bigger risk, which could lead to increased rates.

Conclusion

Although black shingles are typically not advised in Florida, there may be a few exceptional circumstances in which they are appropriate, such as with certain ventilation systems or energy-efficient cooling options. It is important to evaluate these possible advantages in relation to the noteworthy disadvantages.