The Ultimate Guide to Roof Maintenance in Ohio’s Climate

Your roof is more than just shingles and nails. It’s the crown of your home, the first line of defense against Mother Nature, and one of the biggest style statements your house will ever make. Whether you’re dealing with Florida’s blazing sunshine, Ohio’s snowy winters, or just want to boost your curb appeal, choosing the right roof type is one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make. But with so many materials out there, how do you know which one is right for your home, your climate, and your budget? Let’s break down the most popular roof types, their strengths, and where they shine brightest. Asphalt Shingles: The Classic All-American Choice Asphalt shingles are like the jeans of the roofing world — they never go out of style. Affordable, versatile, and available in nearly every color you can imagine, it’s no wonder most homes in America wear them proudly. Why homeowners love them: They’re easy to install, budget-friendly, and can be upgraded to architectural styles that look elegant without breaking the bank. Best for climates: Almost anywhere. They handle Midwest winters well and perform in warmer regions too, though extreme heat can shorten their lifespan. Perfect for: Homeowners who want a reliable roof without the luxury price tag. Metal Roofing: Sleek, Strong, and Energy Smart If asphalt shingles are jeans, metal roofing is the tailored suit — sharp, modern, and built to last. Why homeowners love it: Metal reflects heat like a champ, keeping energy bills lower. Snow and rain slide right off, and hurricane-force winds? No problem. Best for climates: Hot Florida summers, snowy Ohio winters, and windy coastal regions. Basically, if the weather throws a punch, metal can take it. Perfect for: Homeowners who want long-lasting performance (40–70 years!) and a roof that doubles as a style upgrade Clay and Concrete Tile: The Timeless Beauty Picture a villa on the coast of Spain or a home bathed in golden sunlight — chances are, it’s topped with clay or concrete tiles. These roofs bring old-world charm with modern staying power. Why homeowners love them: They can last a century, resist fire, and instantly elevate a home’s curb appeal. Best for climates: Hot, dry, or coastal areas where their durability truly shines. Perfect for: Homeowners who want a touch of Mediterranean elegance — and are ready for the stronger framing these heavy tiles require. Slate Roofing: Nature’s Luxury Upgrade Slate is the diamond of roofing materials. Quarried stone, hand-cut, and nothing short of breathtaking. Why homeowners love it: Its natural beauty is unmatched, and it can outlive several generations of homeowners (we’re talking 100+ years). Best for climates: Cooler, wetter regions where longevity is prized. Perfect for: Homeowners who want the best of the best — and don’t mind paying for craftsmanship that lasts a lifetime. Wood Shingles & Shakes: Rustic Warmth with Character There’s something undeniably charming about a wood roof. From quaint cottages to stately homes, wood shingles and shakes give off warmth and authenticity. Why homeowners love them: They’re natural insulators and offer a look that synthetic materials can only imitate. Best for climates: Dry, moderate climates where moisture and humidity aren’t constant battles. Perfect for: Homeowners who want that rustic, storybook feel — and don’t mind a little extra TLC to keep them looking their best. Synthetic Roofing: The Best of Both Worlds Want the look of slate or wood without the weight, cost, or upkeep? Enter synthetic roofing — a modern material designed to mimic premium options while being easier to live with. Why homeowners love it: It’s lighter, more affordable, and built to stand up to weather without the weaknesses of natural products. Best for climates: Pretty much all of them — it’s a versatile, low-maintenance choice. Perfect for: Homeowners who want high style, lower stress, and long-lasting protection. Flat Roofing: Practical and Modern For homes with low slopes or modern architecture, flat roofing systems (like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen) get the job done. Why homeowners love them: They’re affordable, efficient, and open up opportunities for rooftop patios or gardens. Best for climates: Dry regions are best, though proper drainage systems can make them work in wetter areas too. Perfect for: Modern homes, additions, or commercial buildings. Matching Roofs to Climates & Needs Hot & Sunny (Florida): Metal, clay, or concrete tiles keep homes cool and resist hurricane winds. Cold & Snowy (Ohio & Midwest): Metal and slate roofs shed snow and stand strong through freeze-thaw cycles. Coastal & Humid: Metal or tile resist moisture, salt air, and high winds. Budget-Friendly: Asphalt shingles are reliable and practical. Luxury & Longevity: Slate or premium synthetics are worth the investment. Final Thoughts Choosing a roof isn’t just about picking a material — it’s about picking peace of mind. The right roof protects your home, boosts your curb appeal, and saves you money in the long run. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen firsthand how the right choice makes all the difference. From storm-ready roofs in Cape Coral to snow-shedding systems in Columbus, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your home and lifestyle. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

Living in Florida comes with a lot of perks—beautiful beaches, endless sunshine, and year-round warm weather. But it also comes with one not-so-glamorous reality: our homes take a beating. Between hurricane season, tropical downpours, and blazing hot summers, Florida roofs face challenges that most other states never have to think about. That’s exactly why Florida building codes are so strict when it comes to roofing. If you’ve ever wondered why roof replacements in Florida seem more detailed or why your contractor talks so much about inspections and “meeting code”- this blog will walk you through what those codes mean, how they affect your roof, and why they’re actually a good thing for homeowners. Why Florida Building Codes Matter for Your Roof Here’s the truth: in a state where storms can whip through at 150+ mph, the little details make all the difference. Florida’s building codes were designed after decades of lessons learned from hurricanes like Andrew, Charley, Irma, and Ian. Each time Mother Nature tested us, the codes were updated to make homes stronger and safer. So, what does that mean for your roof? In short, it means: Your roof is designed to stay put in hurricane-force winds. Water barriers and underlayments are in place to stop leaks before they start. Materials have to be tough enough to handle both sun and salt air. Your insurance company may even reward you for having a roof that meets today’s code. Think of Florida building codes as a built-in guarantee that your roof isn’t just “good enough”—it’s ready for whatever our wild weather throws at it. Key Florida Roofing Code Requirements The Florida Building Code (FBC) is updated every three years, and with each update, the standards get tighter. Here are a few of the most important roofing rules that protect your home: 1. Wind Resistance That Matches Your Zone Florida is divided into wind zones, with coastal areas like Cape Coral, Miami, and Naples requiring the highest protection. Roofs here must withstand winds up to 180 mph. That’s no small feat, and it’s why proper fastening and installation are non-negotiable. 2. Stronger Roof Decking & Fasteners It’s not just about shingles. The wood decking under your roof must be securely nailed down using special fasteners. In many homes, hurricane clips or straps are required to anchor the roof structure to your walls, giving your entire house more stability. 3. Secondary Water Barrier Protection Imagine your shingles get torn off in a storm—what then? That’s where the secondary water barrier comes in. This extra layer under your roofing material helps keep rain from seeping into your attic and causing thousands of dollars in damage. 4. Tested & Approved Roofing Materials Not every shingle or tile is Florida-approved. All roofing materials must pass tests for wind uplift, impact resistance, and durability. This ensures you’re not wasting money on something that won’t survive the climate. 5. Licensed Contractors Only Florida codes require that roofing work be done by licensed contractors who know the ins and outs of compliance. This protects you from fly-by-night “storm chasers” who often cut corners after a big hurricane. What This Means for Roof Replacements Here’s where it gets real for homeowners: if your roof is more than 15–20 years old, chances are it was installed under older codes. When you go to replace it, your new roof has to meet today’s stricter Florida Building Code standards. That might mean: Using upgraded materials that cost a little more but last a lot longer. Re-fastening roof decking to meet current nail spacing rules. Installing water barriers or hurricane straps that weren’t required decades ago. Yes, the upfront investment can be higher—but the payoff is worth it. Not only do you get peace of mind knowing your roof is storm-ready, but many insurance companies also offer discounts for homes with code-compliant roofs. That means long-term savings. Why Homeowners Should Care Let’s be honest: no one loves hearing about “building codes.” It sounds technical, boring, and like one more hoop to jump through. But when it comes to your roof, those codes are there to protect your biggest investment—your home. A roof that meets Florida building codes: Keeps your family safe during hurricane season. Protects your belongings from leaks and water damage. Boosts your home’s value if you ever decide to sell. Helps lower insurance premiums in many cases. And here’s the bottom line: cutting corners might save you a few dollars now, but it could cost you thousands if your roof fails an inspection or worse—fails during a storm. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve built our reputation on doing things the right way—not the easy way. Our team knows Florida building codes inside and out, and we make sure every roof we install is designed to stand the test of time (and weather). From Cape Coral to Orlando to Palm Bay, our crews bring local knowledge, licensed expertise, and top-quality materials to every project. When you work with us, you don’t just get a new roof. You get confidence that your home is protected, inspected, and ready for the Florida elements. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

Your home is more than just four walls—it’s where memories are made, where family gathers, and where you feel safe at the end of the day. At Allstate Exteriors, we believe your siding should reflect that same comfort and protection. Replacing your siding isn’t just about giving your home a facelift—it’s about strengthening its defenses against the elements, boosting energy efficiency, and adding curb appeal that makes you smile every time you pull into the driveway. We’ve been helping homeowners for over 25 years, and our siding replacement process is designed with one goal in mind: to make the experience easy, enjoyable, and stress-free. Here’s what it looks like when you partner with us. Step 1: Friendly Consultation & Honest Inspection Every project begins with a conversation. One of our experienced team members will come out to your home for a free inspection. We take the time to listen to your goals, answer your questions, and evaluate your current siding. Our promise? Straightforward, honest feedback—no gimmicks, no pushy sales tactics. Just the information you need to make the best decision for your home. Step 2: Picking the Perfect Look This is where the fun begins! Siding is one of the biggest ways to transform the look of your home, so we walk you through different options—whether it’s classic vinyl, durable fiber cement, or energy-saving insulated siding. With so many colors, textures, and finishes available, you’ll get to create a look that truly reflects your style. Think of this step as designing a fresh new “outfit” for your house—it’s a chance to show off its personality while adding lasting value. Step 3: Clear Proposal, No Surprises We know home improvement can feel overwhelming, which is why we keep everything transparent and simple. After your inspection and design choices, we’ll provide a detailed proposal with costs, timelines, and exactly what’s included. You’ll also get photos and videos of the areas we’ll be working on, so you can see exactly what we see. Step 4: Preparing Your Home with Care Before installation begins, we treat your home like it’s our own. Landscaping, walkways, and outdoor spaces are carefully protected. We remove old siding and check the structure underneath to make sure your home’s foundation is solid. If we find any surprises, we address them right away so your new siding is built to last. Step 5: Expert Installation That Lasts This is the exciting part—watching your home transform before your eyes. Our skilled crews work with precision, installing each panel so it fits perfectly, seals tight, and looks stunning from every angle. We don’t cut corners—ever. The details matter, and our installation process ensures your siding not only looks beautiful but also protects your home for decades to come. Step 6: Spotless Cleanup & Walkthrough When the last piece is in place, we don’t just pack up and leave. Our crews do a complete cleanup—removing every scrap, nail, and piece of debris—so your yard looks as fresh as your new siding. Then, we’ll walk through the project with you, step by step, making sure everything is exactly as promised. Step 7: Standing Beside You for Years to Come One of the biggest things that sets us apart is our commitment long after the job is done. With strong warranties and a team that’s always a phone call away, you’ll have peace of mind knowing we’re here if you ever need us. We care about our customers like family, and that means we’ll always have your back. Why Homeowners Love Working with Us Family-owned values, treating every home like it’s our own 25+ years of trusted experience Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor status BBB A+ Rating and countless happy customers When you choose Allstate Exteriors for your siding replacement, you’re not just getting new siding—you’re getting a full transformation, backed by a team who cares about doing it right. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

When you live in Florida, hurricane season isn’t a question of if—it’s a question of when. Homeowners often prepare by stocking up on supplies, securing outdoor furniture, and checking emergency kits. But one of the most important defenses against hurricane damage is something you can’t pick up at the store: the hidden hardware that holds your roof in place. Hurricane clips, nails, and fasteners might look small, but in the middle of a storm, they’re the unsung heroes protecting your biggest investment —your home. The Overlooked Heroes of Hurricane Season High winds don’t just blow against your home; they pull upward, trying to lift your roof right off the walls. Without the right reinforcements, even a brand-new roof can be vulnerable. That’s why Florida building codes require hurricane clips and specialized fasteners—to literally tie your home together from the roof to the foundation. Think of these details as the seatbelt for your roof: you may not see it, but when disaster strikes, you’ll be grateful it’s there. What Exactly Are Hurricane Clips? Hurricane clips (also called straps or ties) are heavy-duty metal connectors that link your roof trusses or rafters to the wall structure of your home. Instead of relying on just a few nails, these clips create a reinforced, storm-resistant connection that helps keep your roof anchored in place. In fact, studies have shown that homes with properly installed hurricane clips are far less likely to experience catastrophic roof loss during hurricanes. It’s a small piece of metal with a massive impact. Nails and Fasteners: Tiny Details, Big Protection When it comes to storm-ready roofing, not all nails are created equal. The right fasteners provide stronger hold, resist pull-out, and ensure shingles stay secure even when 100-mph winds are pounding down. Ring-shank nails bite into wood better than smooth nails, locking shingles in place. Longer nails ensure shingles, underlayment, and decking are all securely fastened. Proper placement matters—too few nails or incorrect spacing leaves shingles vulnerable to lift and tear. At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t just “nail it down”—we follow strict Florida codes and manufacturer specifications to make sure every piece of your roof is reinforced where it matters most. Why Homeowners Should Care About the Small Stuff You may never see these clips and nails, but you’ll definitely see the difference they make after a storm. Greater protection: Your roof is less likely to rip away in high winds. Lower insurance premiums: Many insurers offer discounts for wind-mitigation features like hurricane clips. Peace of mind: Instead of wondering, “Will my roof hold?” you can feel confident that your home is secured with the right details in place. Choosing a Contractor Who Pays Attention to Details Here’s the reality: not all roofing contractors treat the “little details” like they matter. But we know that when it comes to protecting homes in Florida, details are everything. At Allstate Exteriors, our crews are trained to install clips, nails, and fasteners with precision, ensuring every home we work on is as hurricane-ready as possible. Because to us, it’s not just about finishing a project—it’s about protecting families, memories, and the place you call home. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE TODAY!

When it comes to protecting your home, the roof is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make. That’s why choosing the right roofing contractor matters. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re proud to be connected to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), one of the most respected organizations in the entire construction industry. But what does that mean for you as a homeowner? Let’s dive into why being part of the NRCA sets roofing companies apart and how it directly benefits the families we serve. Setting the Standard for Excellence The NRCA isn’t just another trade group—it’s the gold standard for roofing professionals nationwide. Membership represents a commitment to integrity, craftsmanship, and accountability. When a contractor is part of the NRCA, it shows they care about more than just “getting the job done.” They care about getting it done right—from the smallest repair to a full roof replacement. Always Learning, Always Improving Roofing materials and technology are constantly evolving. From impact-resistant shingles to energy-efficient underlayments, the industry looks completely different than it did even 10 years ago. NRCA members have access to cutting-edge training, certification programs, and education that keep them sharp and current. For homeowners, this means peace of mind knowing your contractor is never “stuck in the past”—they’re bringing today’s best practices, products, and techniques straight to your home. Advocacy That Protects You The NRCA plays a big role in shaping building codes, safety requirements, and roofing standards across the country. That means when you choose a contractor affiliated with the NRCA, you’re choosing a company that is part of a larger voice fighting for quality, safety, and fairness in the roofing industry. Simply put—it’s not just about us, it’s about protecting you and your home. Backed by a Nationwide Network One of the most powerful aspects of being part of the NRCA is community. Members are connected to thousands of other roofing professionals, sharing resources, insights, and best practices. This collective knowledge means you’re not just hiring one local contractor—you’re benefiting from the expertise of an entire national network of roofing leaders. Why It Matters to Homeowners At the end of the day, being part of the NRCA is about trust. It means your contractor is serious about their craft, values accountability, and is dedicated to constant improvement. When you invite us to work on your home, you can feel confident knowing you’re working with a company that’s recognized at the highest level of our industry. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re more than just roofers—we’re homeowners too. We know how important it is to feel safe under your own roof, and we take that responsibility seriously. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the NRCA and proud to bring that level of commitment to every job we do. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!