Building a new home in Florida, whether it’s in the growing suburbs of Spring Hill or a custom home in a rural part of Citrus County, is an exciting venture. One of the most important decisions in this process is the roof. A new construction roof is a blank slate, offering the opportunity to build a high-performance system from the ground up that is perfectly tailored to our unique and demanding climate.
Building Beyond the Minimum Code
The Florida Building Code sets the minimum standards for roof construction, and they are among the strictest in the nation for good reason. However, building a truly superior roof often means going beyond the minimum requirements. Here are some key considerations for a new construction roof in our area:
- Upgrade Your Underlayment: The standard felt underlayment (tar paper) meets code, but upgrading to a modern, high-quality synthetic underlayment provides a far superior secondary water barrier. It is much more tear-resistant and can protect the roof deck from rain even before the shingles are installed.
- Choose a “Cool” Roof: In our sunny climate, a “cool” roof that reflects the sun’s heat is a smart investment. This can be a light-colored shingle or, even more effectively, a metal roof. This can significantly reduce your cooling costs over the life of the home.
- Seal the Roof Deck: A best-practice for hurricane resistance is to seal the seams of the roof deck with a specialized tape. This creates a waterproof barrier at the structural level of the roof, providing an extra layer of protection in the event that the shingles and underlayment are compromised in a major storm.
- Invest in Quality Ventilation: Don’t skimp on ventilation. A properly designed ridge vent and soffit system is the most effective way to keep your attic cool and dry, which extends the life of your shingles and reduces your energy bills.
The Advantage of a Blank Slate
The great advantage of a new construction roof is the ability to incorporate these high-performance features from the very beginning. It is far more cost-effective to upgrade your underlayment or seal the roof deck during the initial construction than it is to do so during a later roof replacement. By making these smart choices during the building phase, you can ensure that your new Florida home is as durable, efficient, and storm-resistant as possible.