CGC-1526236 • CCC-1331464
Metal Roofing That's Actually Engineered for South Florida Hurricanes
Not all metal roofs are created equal. The difference between a roof that survives a Category 5 and one that peels off in a tropical storm comes down to details most contractors skip: gauge thickness, clip spacing, seam type, and how thermal expansion is managed. We build metal roofs that perform.
The Hidden Differences Between a 100 MPH Roof and a 200+ MPH Roof
Metal roofing has earned a reputation as the ultimate hurricane-proof material. And it can be — when installed correctly. The problem is, most metal roofs in South Florida are installed with cost-cutting decisions that dramatically reduce their wind resistance.
The same metal roof can be rated for 100 mph or 200+ mph winds. The difference isn't the metal — it's how it's installed.
Here's what most contractors won't explain:
1. Gauge (Thickness)
Metal roofing comes in different gauges — and thinner metal is cheaper. 29-gauge is the thinnest and weakest. 24-gauge is thicker, stronger, and more resistant to denting, oil canning, and wind damage. Many contractors install 29-gauge to save money. We use 24-gauge for standing seam installations because hurricanes don't care about your contractor's profit margin.
2. Seam Type
There are three main types of metal roof seams: exposed fastener (like 5V crimp), snap-lock, and mechanically seamed. Each has dramatically different wind resistance. More on this below.
3. Clip Spacing
Standing seam roofs are attached with clips. An engineer might specify clips at 18" on-center for maximum wind resistance — but many installers space them at 36" to save time and materials. That shortcut can cut your roof's wind rating in half.
4. Thermal Expansion
Metal expands significantly in South Florida's heat — and contracts at night. A roof that doesn't accommodate this movement will develop leaks, loose fasteners, and panel damage over time.
Bottom Line: A cheap metal roof installation can fail in a moderate storm. A properly engineered metal roof can survive a direct hit from a major hurricane.
Why We Recommend Mechanically Seamed Standing Seam — And Avoid Snap-Lock
There are three main ways to attach metal roofing panels. The method you choose determines how long your roof lasts and how well it performs in a hurricane.
Exposed Fastener Roofs (5V Crimp, R-Panel, Corrugated)
Exposed fastener roofs — including the popular 5V crimp profile — attach panels directly to the roof deck with screws. Each screw has a rubber or butyl washer designed to seal the hole.
The Problem:
In South Florida's intense sun, those washers bake. They dry out, crack, and fail — turning every screw into a potential leak point. A typical 5V crimp roof has hundreds of exposed fasteners. That's hundreds of potential failure points.
And because metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, the constant movement works those fasteners loose over time. The screws back out. The holes elongate. Water gets in.
Exposed fastener roofs can work for agricultural buildings and utility structures. For your home? They're a maintenance liability.
Our Position: We install exposed fastener systems only when specifically requested and appropriate for the application. For residential and commercial buildings in the HVHZ, we recommend standing seam.
Snap-Lock Standing Seam
Snap-lock panels have male and female legs that snap together. No mechanical seaming required. Faster to install. Lower labor costs.
The Problems:
1. Wind Uplift Vulnerability:
When negative pressure builds during a hurricane, snap-lock panels can literally unsnap. The extreme uplift pressures pry the panels apart — and once one panel lifts, the rest follow.
2. Requires Double Caulking:
To make snap-lock systems truly watertight, contractors must apply double caulking in the seams. Most contractors skip this step. And even when done properly, caulk degrades in Florida's UV exposure — requiring maintenance.
3. Price Isn't Much Lower:
By the time you add proper caulking, quality underlayment, and additional weatherproofing, snap-lock costs nearly the same as mechanically seamed. But it performs worse.
Our Position: We don't recommend snap-lock for South Florida hurricane zones. If you're going to invest in standing seam, do it right.
Mechanically Seamed Standing Seam (What We Install)
Mechanically seamed panels are crimped together using a power seaming tool — either single-lock (one fold) or double-lock (two folds). The seams are physically folded together, creating an interlocking connection that cannot be pulled apart by wind.
Why It's Superior:
- Maximum Wind Resistance: Mechanically seamed roofs consistently outperform snap-lock and exposed fastener systems in wind uplift testing. Many systems are rated for 180+ mph winds.
- No Exposed Fasteners: All fasteners are hidden under the seam or attached via clips. No penetrations in the roof surface. No washers to fail.
- Accommodates Thermal Movement: The clip system allows panels to expand and contract freely. No stress on fasteners. No enlarged holes. No leaks from thermal cycling.
- Watertight at Any Pitch: Double-lock mechanically seamed roofs can be installed on low-slope applications where snap-lock would fail.
Clip Spacing: How Contractors Cut Corners — And How We Don't
Here's something most homeowners never think about: the clips that attach your standing seam panels to the roof deck are what actually hold your roof on during a hurricane.
The spacing of those clips directly determines your roof's wind rating.
The Math Is Simple:
Why does this happen?
An engineer designing for South Florida's HVHZ might specify clips at 18" or even 12" on-center. But many installers — especially those focused on speed and cost — space clips at 36" or more.
Clips cost money. Installing more of them takes more time. And once the roof is installed, you can't see the clip spacing. The homeowner has no idea.
Until a hurricane hits.
FEMA's Post-Hurricane Analysis:
After Hurricane Ike, FEMA documented widespread metal roof failures caused by improper clip spacing. Their report specifically cited contractors installing clips too far apart, placing the first clip too far from the eave, and using incorrect fastener sizes.
These weren't manufacturing defects. They were installation shortcuts.
Our Approach:
We follow the engineering specifications for every job — and we document our clip installation. When your roof is complete, you'll know exactly how it was built. If a storm comes, your roof will perform as designed.
"Storms keep getting stronger. So why would you install a roof to minimum code when you can exceed it for a modest additional investment? Closer clip spacing costs a little more in materials and labor — but it can be the difference between keeping your roof and losing it."
Metal Expands. Metal Contracts. Your Roof Must Be Designed for Both.
Here's something most people don't realize about metal roofing: it moves. A lot.
On a hot South Florida day, your metal roof can reach 150°F or higher. At night, it cools dramatically. This daily cycle causes the metal to expand and contract — and over the course of a year, that movement adds up.
What Happens When Thermal Movement Isn't Accommodated:
- Exposed fastener systems: Screws back out. Holes elongate. Washers fail. Leaks develop.
- Improperly designed standing seam: Panels buckle, warp, or develop "oil canning" (visible waviness). Clips can disengage.
- Sealants and caulk: Dry out and crack as they're stretched and compressed repeatedly.
The Solution: Floating Clip Systems
Properly designed standing seam roofs use a combination of fixed and floating clips. The fixed clips anchor the panels at specific points (usually near the eave), while floating clips allow the rest of the panel to move freely as it expands and contracts.
This is why mechanically seamed standing seam outperforms other systems — the clip-and-seam design accommodates thermal movement by design.
Why Aluminum Matters Near the Coast:
If your property is within a few miles of salt water, aluminum standing seam is worth considering. Aluminum doesn't rust like steel — but it also expands and contracts more than steel. Proper clip design is even more critical.
Metal Roofing Gauge & Thickness: Why It Matters
Steel roofing is measured in "gauge" (lower numbers = thicker metal). Aluminum roofing is measured in decimal thickness. Both affect performance significantly.
Steel Gauge Comparison:
Note: Steel is measured in gauge. Aluminum is measured in decimal thickness (see below).
Aluminum Thickness:
Aluminum roofing is measured in decimal thickness, not gauge.
Why Thickness Matters:
Thicker metal (24-gauge steel or .032" aluminum) is:
- More resistant to denting from hail and debris
- Less prone to "oil canning" (visible waviness)
- Stronger under wind uplift pressure
- Required for most engineering certifications
Our Standard:
For mechanically seamed standing seam installations, we use 24-gauge steel or .032" aluminum (.040" for commercial applications). For applications where 26-gauge steel is appropriate, we specify it — but we never use 29-gauge for primary roofing applications.
Metal Roofing Systems We Install
From standing seam to metal tile, we offer the right system for your property and budget.
Mechanically Seamed Standing Seam (Recommended)
- • The gold standard for hurricane-prone areas
- • Concealed fasteners eliminate leak points
- • 24-gauge steel or .032" aluminum (.040" for commercial)
- • Tight clip spacing for maximum wind resistance
- • 40-70 year lifespan with minimal maintenance
- • Available in a wide range of colors and finishes
Metal Tile / Stone-Coated Steel
- • Mimics the look of clay or concrete tile
- • Lighter weight than traditional tile
- • Interlocking panels with concealed fasteners
- • Impact resistant (Class 4 hail rating available)
- • Good option for tile aesthetics with metal durability
5V Crimp / Exposed Fastener (Limited Applications)
- • Classic "Key West" coastal aesthetic
- • Lower cost than standing seam
- • Best for agricultural, utility, or covered structures
- • Requires more maintenance due to exposed fasteners
- • Not our first recommendation for HVHZ
Aluminum Standing Seam (Coastal Properties)
- • Corrosion resistant for saltwater environments
- • Lightweight — good for weight limitations
- • Same mechanically seamed performance as steel
- • Recommended within 3 miles of ocean
Whatever system you choose, proper installation determines performance. A cheap standing seam installation can fail; a quality exposed fastener roof can perform adequately. We focus on doing it right.
Why a General Contractor License Matters for Metal Roofing
Metal roof installations often require work that goes beyond roofing:
Structural modifications
Reinforcing rafters or adding support for heavier gauge metal
Fascia and soffit work
Replacing rotted wood before installing drip edge
Stucco repairs
Addressing wall-to-roof transitions
Gutter integration
Ensuring proper drainage
Many roofing contractors only hold a CCC (roofing) license. When they encounter structural or exterior finish work, they either subcontract it (adding cost and coordination issues) or skip it entirely.
We hold both:
One company handles everything. No subcontractor delays. No finger-pointing between trades. Your metal roof installation is complete and correct.
Metal Roofing in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone
Broward County is one of only two counties in Florida designated as a High Velocity Hurricane Zone. Every roofing installation must meet stricter requirements than the rest of the state.
HVHZ Metal Roofing Requirements:
Product Approval
All metal panels must have valid Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA
Wind Uplift Testing
Systems must be tested and rated for the specific wind pressures in your zone
Clip and Fastener Specifications
Clip spacing, fastener type, and attachment patterns must meet engineering requirements
Underlayment Standards
High-temp self-adhered underlayment required in most applications
Flashing Details
All flashings must meet HVHZ Chapter 15 requirements
Our Expertise:
We work in the HVHZ daily. We understand the engineering requirements, the inspection process, and the documentation needed. When we install your metal roof, it's designed to meet code and exceed expectations.
Our Metal Roofing Services
Metal Roof Installation
Complete installation with proper engineering, clip spacing, and HVHZ compliance. We use mechanically seamed standing seam as our standard for residential and commercial applications.
Metal Roof Repair
Leak diagnosis, fastener replacement, panel repair, and sealant maintenance. We service all metal roof types, even systems we didn't install.
Metal Roof Inspection
Comprehensive evaluation of panels, seams, fasteners, flashing, and underlayment condition. We'll identify problems before they become emergencies.
Exposed Fastener Maintenance
If you have a 5V crimp or other exposed fastener roof, regular maintenance can extend its life. We can replace failed washers, re-seal fasteners, and address problem areas.
Metal-Over-Metal Retrofit
In some cases, a new metal roof can be installed over an existing metal roof. We'll assess your situation and recommend the best approach.
Common Metal Roof Problems in South Florida
Problem: Leaks at fasteners
Cause: Rubber washers degraded from UV and heat exposure
Our Fix: Replace failed fasteners with proper sealing screws; consider upgrade to standing seam
Problem: Panels blowing off in storms
Cause: Inadequate clip spacing or snap-lock system failure
Our Fix: Assess damage, reinforce with additional clips, repair or replace panels
Problem: Oil canning (wavy appearance)
Cause: Thin gauge metal, improper installation, or thermal stress
Our Fix: Address underlying causes; consider heavier gauge replacement panels
Problem: Noise during rain
Cause: Missing or inadequate underlayment and insulation
Our Fix: Add proper underlayment and insulation during re-roofing
Problem: Rust and corrosion
Cause: Damaged coating, salt exposure, or incompatible metal contact
Our Fix: Treat affected areas, apply protective coating, replace severely damaged panels
Problem: Leaks at transitions and flashings
Cause: Improper flashing installation or sealant failure
Our Fix: Install proper flashings with stucco integration where needed (GC license advantage)
Why Homeowners Trust All Phase for Metal Roofing
Mechanically Seamed Systems
We install standing seam roofs that are crimped — not snapped. Maximum wind resistance with no exposed fasteners.
Proper Clip Spacing
We follow engineering specifications for clip placement, not minimum-effort shortcuts. Your roof's wind rating is real.
24-Gauge Standard
We use thicker, stronger metal for standing seam installations. No 29-gauge compromises.
Thermal Movement Expertise
We design for South Florida's heat. Floating clip systems allow your roof to expand and contract without damage.
Dual Licensed (GC + CCC)
Structural work, fascia, stucco — we handle it all. One contractor, complete installation.
20+ Years, 2,500+ Projects
We've installed metal roofs across South Florida through multiple hurricane seasons. We know what performs.
Metal Roofing Services in Broward & Palm Beach Counties
Boca Raton • Deerfield Beach • Pompano Beach • Fort Lauderdale • Coral Springs • Parkland • Delray Beach • Boynton Beach • West Palm Beach • Lighthouse Point • Hillsboro Beach • Coconut Creek & surrounding areas
Metal Roofing FAQs
What's the difference between standing seam and exposed fastener metal roofing?
Standing seam has raised seams where panels interlock, with all fasteners hidden underneath. Exposed fastener roofs (like 5V crimp) have screws driven directly through the panel surface. Standing seam is more weather-tight and requires less maintenance, but costs more. Exposed fastener systems are cheaper but the rubber washers eventually fail, creating potential leak points.
Is mechanically seamed better than snap-lock for hurricanes?
Yes. Mechanically seamed panels are physically crimped together — they can't be pulled apart by wind. Snap-lock panels can unsnap under extreme uplift pressure. For South Florida's HVHZ, we strongly recommend mechanically seamed standing seam.
What does "clip spacing" mean and why does it matter?
Clips are what attach standing seam panels to your roof deck. Closer spacing (like 18" or 12" on-center) means more attachment points and higher wind resistance. Wider spacing (36") reduces wind resistance significantly. Many contractors space clips too far apart to save time and materials — which can lead to roof failure in a storm.
What gauge or thickness metal should I choose?
For steel standing seam, 24-gauge is the industry standard for quality residential and commercial applications. For aluminum, .032" thickness is standard residential, with .040" used for commercial applications. Steel gauge and aluminum thickness both affect strength — thicker is better. Avoid 29-gauge steel for primary roofing applications — it's too thin for Florida's conditions.
How does metal expand and contract in South Florida's heat?
Metal roofs can reach 150°F or higher on hot days, then cool significantly at night. This causes the metal to expand and contract daily. A properly designed standing seam roof with floating clips accommodates this movement. Exposed fastener roofs often develop leaks as screws work loose from repeated thermal cycling.
Are metal roofs noisy during rain?
Not when properly installed. With adequate underlayment and insulation — which we always include — metal roofs are no noisier than other roofing types. The "rain on a tin roof" noise comes from bare metal over open structures, not from properly installed residential systems.
How long does a metal roof last?
A quality standing seam metal roof can last 40-70 years with minimal maintenance. Exposed fastener roofs typically last 20-30 years before significant maintenance is needed. Lifespan depends heavily on material quality, gauge, and installation quality.
Should I choose steel or aluminum for my metal roof?
For most applications, steel (typically Galvalume-coated) is the standard choice. If your property is within 3 miles of salt water, aluminum is worth considering for its superior corrosion resistance. Aluminum expands more than steel, so clip design becomes even more critical.
Can a metal roof be installed over my existing roof?
Sometimes. Metal-over-metal retrofits are possible in certain situations. Metal over shingles or tile requires careful assessment. We'll evaluate your existing roof structure, ventilation, and condition to determine the best approach.
Are metal roofs hurricane-proof?
No roof is truly "hurricane-proof," but properly engineered metal roofs are among the most wind-resistant options available. Mechanically seamed standing seam with proper clip spacing can be rated for 180 mph winds or higher. The key is engineering and installation quality — not just the material.
Do metal roofs attract lightning?
No. Metal roofs don't attract lightning any more than other roofing materials. Metal is conductive, so if lightning does strike, it disperses the energy safely. Metal roofs are also non-combustible, which is actually a safety advantage.
How much does a metal roof cost in South Florida?
Quality mechanically seamed standing seam roofs typically range from $15-$25+ per square foot installed, depending on gauge, profile, and complexity. Snap-lock and exposed fastener systems cost less but perform differently. We provide detailed estimates so you understand exactly what you're getting. Use our free Roof Cost Calculator for a preliminary estimate.
Ready for a Metal Roof That's Actually Built for Hurricanes?
Schedule a free consultation. We'll explain the difference between a cheap metal roof and one engineered to protect your home — and help you make an informed decision.