Project managing coastal developments is a balancing act and roofing projects are no exception. You’re dealing with material orders, install schedules, and working against extreme environmental pressures. You’re also doing it in places where the weather can be volatile, or even deadly. Building codes tend to change fast in coastal regions, and access to skilled labor is another point to contend with. Florida’s coastline is a brilliant example of how complex these jobs can be, and the lessons here can be useful for construction industry professionals elsewhere.
Building Codes
Florida’s building codes are designed to handle the worst when it comes to roofing projects. They’re strict, but with good reason. The devastating effects of Hurricane Ian in 2022 made it clear that updates were needed, especially regarding wind uplift resistance and the integrity of roof system attachments. The Florida Building Commission reacted by rolling out changes for buildings in High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ).
For example, previously, underlayments made of #15 and #30 felt standard. Now, underlayments may need to be replaced with stronger synthetic materials, a double layer of overlapping #30 asphalt-impregnated felt, or self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen. Roof deck sheathing must be installed with ring-shank nails (not smooth-shank staples). Secondary water barriers are also now required for new roofs. And if you’re building in an area rated for 150 to 180 mph winds, the roof will need to undergo enhanced uplift resistance testing.
What Does It Mean for Developers?
Roofing projects are a high-risk compliance aspect of any coastal property development. In the Sunshine State, design standards often vary by county, so many developers prefer to work with Florida roofers. Their hyper-local code knowledge helps to avoid missed specs, failed inspections, and project delays
Roofing Materials
Coastal roofing needs to be stormproof, but it’s also about what the climate does to your build every day. Consider salt corrosion, UV degradation, and high air moisture. All these can eat away at roof materials over time, even before a hurricane hits. Florida has moved towards more durable materials, such as:
- SBS-modified bitumen membranes with higher flexibility and UV performance
- PVDF-coated metal roofing for salt and fade resistance
- Concrete or clay tiles, which offer thermal mass but require reinforced substructures
- Synthetic underlayments that perform well in high humidity and on steep-slope roofs
If you’re building close to the coast (usually a few kilometers) you may be required to use marine-grade fasteners and non-ferrous flashing as standard.
Microclimate
Even in the same coastal region, roofing specs vary. For instance, the tropical climate of South Florida needs ventilation-first strategies like ridge vent systems, breathable membranes, and passive airflow beneath tiles. On the Gulf side, you’re more likely to prioritize wind uplift resistance and overhand reinforcement.
Along the Atlantic, stainless steel or polymer-coated fasteners are ideal for the salty air. However, if you’re building inland, hot-dip galvanized alternatives may be acceptable. All these details contribute to better roof performance, a longer lifespan, and inspection and insurance compliance. Overlook them during your roofing projects and you may end up swallowing warranty claims or retrofit costs within a year or two.
Endnote
Florida’s roofing standards were shaped by decades of failure, weather damage, and smart, reactive policy reform. As a construction professional managing coastal projects, the lessons are clear. Know your codes, partner with local contractors, and give this aspect of construction the attention it deserves.
