Asphalt shingles have provided an effective, affordable and versatile roofing solution for decades and continued innovation will ensure it stays that way for generations to come

By Reed Hitchcock, Executive Vice President, Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association.

Rumors of the demise of asphalt shingles in Florida are greatly exaggerated.

Asphalt shingles provide a great, cost-effective option for consumers, and in recent weeks, groups with varying interests and motivations — including those who sell roofing products that compete with asphalt shingles — have attempted to undermine their efficacy with comments not based in fact. This was evident as a result of some broad statements from Florida’s Insurance Commissioner, Michael Yaworsky. These groups are understandably attempting to leverage such statements to increase their market share against the predominant residential roofing material in the state.

The actual situation in Florida is far more complex and nuanced than these interests would have you believe: there are indeed challenges with roofing in the state, but these challenges are not unique to asphalt roofing, nor are asphalt shingles the principal cause. Given that asphalt shingles protect between 70% and 75% of homes in the state, it is logical that a severe weather event would result in more damaged asphalt shingle roofs than those covered by other materials.

Beyond basic mathematics, several other factors must be considered. Over the past few decades, building codes and product technologies have advanced significantly. Many older roofs were installed before these advancements were introduced, and therefore may not comply with the latest codes. Furthermore, many roofs installed post-storm are not installed by qualified professionals, making them more vulnerable to damage during severe storms.

Additionally, not all roofing materials are equal. Roofing systems vary from high-end to budget systems. The optimal material for a specific home in a particular region may not necessarily be the cheapest or the most expensive but should be evaluated as part of a complete system. Homeowners should be educated about the roofing system that best suits their home, ensuring it fits their budget, aesthetics and environment. Observations from post-storm damages indicate that numerous asphalt shingle roofs remain intact after severe storms, while catastrophic failures can occur with any roofing material.

The entire roofing industry has a challenge of continuously improving product performance, and the asphalt shingle manufacturers are actively participating in collaboration with roofing contractor groups, code officials, and other stakeholders. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has proposed enhancements for asphalt shingle systems in the current revisions of the Florida Building Code, including hip and ridge improvements and better drip edge flashing at eaves and rakes. The industry supports efforts to codify common installation practices providing secondary water penetration protection. 

Over the years, the Florida asphalt shingle market has shifted to modern, high-performance laminated shingles, now representing approximately 90% of the market. Today's asphalt shingles differ significantly from those installed decades ago and undergo rigorous testing to meet wind uplift, hail resistance, and fire ratings. Furthermore, many ARMA member companies are closely engaged in improving the ASTM Standards with which our products are required to comply, and creating new Standards where voids exist.

Asphalt shingles continue to dominate the roofing market in Florida, with no indication of decline. The asphalt roofing industry remains agile, capable of delivering reliable, cost-effective, high-performance roofs to homeowners following major storms. Other systems cannot match this level of service. Asphalt shingles are the leading roofing system in North America for various reasons, including cost-effectiveness and an array of aesthetic options, and they remain a steadfast choice.

About ARMA

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) represents North America’s asphalt roofing manufacturing companies and their raw material suppliers. The association includes the majority of North American manufacturers of asphalt shingles and asphalt low slope roof membrane systems. Committed to advancing the asphalt roofing industry, ARMA plays a pivotal role in promoting asphalt roofing to industry professionals and the public. For more information about ARMA, visit asphaltroofing.org.