Regardless of what roof material you choose or how skilled and experienced the roofing contractor is, every roof will eventually need to be replaced or at least extensively repaired. Roofs have average lifespans, and proper maintenance combined with an easy climate can extend them for longer than most people would think, but we don't live in an area with an easy climate.

In Gulf Shores, heavy storms are normal and our roofs take a beating every year. You’ll find yourself needing to replace your roof, whether it's residential or commercial, and when you do, it'll be important for you to know your options and most of all, know who to call to do it. Roof replacement services aren’t cheap, but it doesn't have to be expensive. If you hire a quality roofing company to replace your roof with the right type for you, you will get your money's worth from that roof for a long time to come. Putting off roof replacements usually lead to more expensive replacements down the line, and can greatly increase your total expense.

On the flip side, hiring a cheap roofer to do a cheap job on your replacement is unfortunately very likely to result in you becoming a semi-professional roof leak hunter, spending your free time chasing leaks, putting down buckets, and looking for clues on where the heck that leak is coming from! Trust us, it's better to just get the job done right the first time and enjoy the peace of mind. With roofing, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. And all our roofs are built to local building codes and come with a warranty. We know as homeowners, trusting even an experienced roofing professional can a leap of faith but it is one that will pay off.

Choosing a roofing material or products can be difficult. There are many different styles to choose from, including shingle, metal and tile. Metal roofs can last for 50 years and beyond with little upkeep and maintenance; however, they cost considerably more than asphalt shingles upfront. Tile is another durable material that will last decades but has its drawbacks like maintenance, repairs, and cost. Here in Gulf Shores, shingles are the most affordable option for homeowners, but they will need to be replaced more frequently than other materials. No type of roofing is perfect, but if you work with a true roofing authority they will be able to guide you in choosing the best roof type for you.

Shingle roof replacement is very simple and often involves a relatively small crew. It is recommended to have a roof replacement performed every twenty years for a standard asphalt shingle roof, or sooner if the shingles are failing or there are visible signs of damage.

Shingle roofs have an average lifespan of 15-25 years on average, given proper maintenance, but they're also the most vulnerable to wind damage and hail from our coastal storms. It's key to keep a close eye on them, especially after a storm, and to schedule roof repairs at the first sign of damage.

Minor roof repairs can become major roof repairs quite quickly. Life is hectic and sometimes it's easy for a homeowner to let their roof damages accrue, leading to the need to replace their roof but even worse, have to repair the roof deck, replace plywood, replace structural elements, and do major repairs. 

Thankfully Southern Roofing Systems has some of the best prices around and no one spends more time making sure our customers are completely satisfied.

If you searched “roof replacement near me” and found us, it’s because of that work ethic and our great reviews.

Ceramic tile roofs are very pricey but they're also a very durable roofing choice. Ceramic roofs can last anywhere from 50-100 years with proper maintenance and care. Like metal roofs, tile roofs can take a lot of wind damage and tend to be better at withstanding high winds than most other types of residential roofs, but given the right hurricane, your Gulf Shores roof could be in danger.

Ceramic roofs are also very heavy and require a special type of roofing crew who are experienced with the necessary precautions needed to successfully install ceramic. As a result, there aren’t a lot of Gulf Shores residential roofers who can do this right. Your roof construction must be inspected to ensure it's safe to replace your roof with a ceramic tile roof, or if you currently have one, that it can maintain it.

Slate Tiles or Shingles

Slate shingle roofs are the heaviest roof you can get on a residential home. They are also very pricey, but they are durable and their biggest advantage is that they are fireproof. If your house has large open areas of wood construction, you want to seriously consider getting a slate shingle roof replacement for safety reasons.

Slate tiles are also the most likely to survive most hurricanes, but their downside is that they are extremely heavy and can cause extensive damage if not properly installed by experienced crews.

Cedar Shakes, Wood Shingles & Shakes, and Wood Based Roofs

Cedar roofs are relatively uncommon, but they are beautiful and very durable. They also tend to be better at keeping your home cool in the summertime than many other types of roofs, due to their natural shaded protection. They're actually one of the most durable types of roofs in hurricanes and heavy storms, but they do have a few drawbacks. 

Cedar roofs require a high level of maintenance. They are durable overall, but repairs and maintenance will be the main determination if they will last the full 30 years they average.