If you're shopping for the lowest-cost roofing material available, rolled roofing is probably at the top of your list. At $30 to $50 per roll (each covering roughly 100 square feet), asphalt roll roofing costs a fraction of what shingles, metal, or membrane systems run. For a shed, a detached porch roof, or a temporary fix on a low-slope addition, that price tag is genuinely appealing.
But here in Pinellas County, Florida, the calculus changes. Our combination of intense UV radiation, summer surface temperatures exceeding 160°F, salt air from the Gulf of Mexico, and hurricane season from June through November creates one of the harshest environments for roofing materials in the entire country. Rolled roofing that might last 15 years in Ohio often fails in 5 to 7 years on a Florida roof.
This guide covers everything you need to know about rolled roofing in a Florida context: what it is, what it costs, how to install it, how long it lasts, and most importantly, when you should spend a bit more on a roofing system that will actually protect your property long-term.
What Is Rolled Roofing?
Rolled roofing, also called asphalt roll roofing or mineral surface roll roofing (MSR), is a single-layer asphalt roofing product that comes in large rolls rather than individual shingles. Each roll is typically 36 inches wide, 33 to 36 feet long, and covers approximately one square (100 square feet) of roof area. The material consists of an organic felt or fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt and topped with ceramic mineral granules for UV protection and weathering resistance.
Unlike architectural shingles that are installed in overlapping courses (creating two to three layers of material at every point on the roof), rolled roofing provides just a single layer of protection. This fundamental difference explains both its low cost and its limited durability. You're getting one thickness of material between your roof deck and the elements, compared to the multiple overlapping layers that shingle systems provide.
There are several types of rolled roofing available:
- Mineral surface roll roofing (MSR): The most common type. Full granule coverage on one side, used as the primary finished roof surface. Available in limited colors, mostly black, dark brown, or gray.
- Smooth surface roll roofing: No granules. Used as flashing material, valley lining, or as a base layer under other roofing. Not suitable as a standalone roof covering.
- Double-coverage (selvage edge) roll roofing: Granules cover only half the width. Installed with a 19-inch overlap, creating two layers of material across the roof. Better protection than standard MSR but still far below shingle performance.
Rolled Roofing vs. Rolled Metal Roofing: An Important Distinction
Before we go further, let's clear up a common point of confusion. "Rolled roofing" (asphalt roll roofing) and "rolled metal roofing" are completely different products despite the similar naming. Rolled metal roofing refers to metal coil stock, usually steel or aluminum, that arrives at the job site on large spools and is fed through a portable roll-forming machine to create standing seam or corrugated panels on location.
The two products could not be more different in terms of performance:
| Feature | Asphalt Roll Roofing | Rolled Metal Roofing |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Asphalt-saturated felt/fiberglass | Steel or aluminum coil |
| Cost (installed) | $2.00-4.00/sq ft | $8.00-14.00/sq ft |
| Lifespan in FL | 5-10 years | 40-60 years |
| Wind resistance | 50-70 mph | 140-180 mph |
| UV resistance | Poor (rapid granule loss) | Excellent (PVDF coatings) |
| Best for | Sheds, temporary repairs | Primary residences, commercial |
If you're researching rolled metal roofing for a primary residence or commercial building, check out our standing seam metal roof guide for detailed pricing and installation information specific to Pinellas County.
Asphalt Roll Roofing Price: Complete Cost Breakdown
The biggest selling point of asphalt roll roofing is the price. Here's what you can expect to pay in the Pinellas County market as of 2026:
| Cost Category | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Materials only (per roll/100 sq ft) | $30-50 | MSR roll at major home stores |
| Materials per square foot | $0.30-0.50 | Not counting underlayment or fasteners |
| Installed per square foot | $2.00-4.00 | Professional installation |
| DIY per square foot | $0.75-1.50 | Materials plus adhesive, nails, tools |
| 200 sq ft shed (DIY) | $150-300 | Materials only |
| 500 sq ft porch (installed) | $1,000-2,000 | Professional installation |
| 1,500 sq ft low-slope roof (installed) | $3,000-6,000 | Not recommended for primary residence |
How Asphalt Roll Roofing Price Compares to Alternatives
Rolled roofing is undeniably the cheapest option. But when you factor in lifespan and replacement frequency, the cost advantage shrinks dramatically:
| Roofing System | Installed Cost/Sq Ft | FL Lifespan | Cost Per Year | 30-Year Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt roll roofing | $2.00-4.00 | 5-10 years | $0.30-0.60 | $9,000-18,000 (3-5 replacements) |
| 3-tab shingles | $3.50-5.50 | 15-20 years | $0.20-0.35 | $7,000-11,000 |
| Architectural shingles | $4.00-7.00 | 20-30 years | $0.17-0.30 | $6,000-10,500 |
| TPO membrane | $5.50-8.00 | 20-25 years | $0.25-0.35 | $8,250-12,000 |
| Standing seam metal | $9.00-14.00 | 40-60 years | $0.18-0.30 | $9,000-14,000 |
The math tells a clear story. On a 1,500-square-foot roof over 30 years, asphalt roll roofing actually costs more than architectural shingles because you're replacing it 3 to 5 times. The only scenario where rolled roofing wins financially is when the structure itself won't last more than 5 to 10 years, or when your immediate budget simply cannot accommodate a better system.
For a detailed breakdown of flat and low-slope roofing costs, see our flat roof cost guide.
When Rolled Roofing Makes Sense in Florida
Despite its limitations, there are legitimate use cases for rolled roofing in Pinellas County. The key is matching the product to the right application:
Good Applications for Rolled Roofing
- Storage sheds and outbuildings: A detached shed storing lawn equipment or holiday decorations doesn't need a 30-year roof. Rolled roofing provides adequate protection at minimal cost.
- Covered porches and carports: Small porch roofs or carport additions where aesthetics aren't critical and the area isn't climate-controlled.
- Temporary repairs: If you need to weatherproof a damaged section of roof while saving for a full replacement, rolled roofing can buy you a season or two.
- Rental property outbuildings: Non-essential structures on rental properties where the ROI on premium roofing doesn't justify the expense.
- Low-slope workshop additions: A small workshop lean-to with a 1:12 to 2:12 pitch where you need basic weather protection on a tight budget.
Bad Applications for Rolled Roofing
- Primary residence roofing: Your home deserves better than a 5-to-10-year roof. The risk of leaks, wind damage during hurricanes, and premature failure makes rolled roofing a poor choice for any living space.
- Flat roofs over conditioned space: Rolled roofing on a flat or low-slope roof over air-conditioned space invites problems. For these applications, TPO roofing or a proper flat roof membrane is the right investment.
- Insurance-sensitive properties: Many Florida insurance companies will not provide wind coverage for structures roofed with rolled roofing, or they will charge substantial surcharges.
- HOA-governed properties: Nearly every homeowners association in Pinellas County prohibits rolled roofing on any visible roof surface.
Asphalt Roll Roofing Installation: Step-by-Step Guide
One advantage of rolled roofing is that it's one of the few roofing materials a reasonably handy homeowner can install on a small structure like a shed or porch. Here's the process for a proper asphalt roll roofing installation:
Tools and Materials Needed
- Mineral surface roll roofing (measure roof area plus 10% for overlap and waste)
- Roofing cement (cold-applied lap cement)
- 1-inch galvanized roofing nails
- Utility knife with hooked blade
- Chalk line
- Tape measure
- Caulk gun
- Flat pry bar (for old material removal)
- Push broom
Step 1: Prepare the Roof Deck
Remove any existing roofing material down to the plywood or OSB deck. Inspect the deck for rot, soft spots, or delamination. Replace any damaged sections. In Florida's humid climate, deck rot is common under failed roofing, so don't skip this step. Sweep the deck clean of all debris and old fasteners.
Step 2: Install Underlayment
Even though rolled roofing is itself an asphalt product, installing a layer of synthetic underlayment underneath provides an extra barrier against moisture. In Pinellas County, this step is especially important because wind-driven rain can penetrate the single-layer rolled roofing. The Florida Building Code requires underlayment on all roof decks, so this isn't optional.
Step 3: Install Drip Edge
Install metal drip edge along the eaves and rakes. Drip edge prevents water from wicking back under the roofing material and protects the fascia board from rot. Florida Building Code requires drip edge on all roof edges. Use galvanized or aluminum drip edge to resist salt air corrosion.
Step 4: Roll Out the First Course
Start at the lowest edge of the roof (the eave). Unroll the material and let it relax for 15 to 30 minutes in the sun so it flattens out. Position the first course so it overhangs the drip edge by about 1/4 inch. Nail along the top edge at 6-inch intervals, keeping nails about 1 inch from the edge. Apply a 2-inch-wide band of roofing cement along the eave edge and press the roll into it.
Step 5: Install Subsequent Courses
Each subsequent course overlaps the previous one by at least 2 inches for exposed-nail application or 4 to 6 inches for concealed-nail application. Apply roofing cement across the entire overlap area. Nail through both layers at 6-inch intervals. Work your way up the roof slope.
Step 6: Seal All Edges and Penetrations
Apply generous beads of roofing cement at all end laps (where rolls meet side to side), around any pipe penetrations or vents, and at the ridge. These details are where most rolled roofing failures begin, especially in Florida where thermal cycling causes the cement to crack over time.
Asphalt Roll Roofing Installation Tips for Florida
- Install in mild weather: Ideal installation temperature is 50°F to 85°F. In the Florida summer, install early in the morning before the roof deck becomes dangerously hot. Asphalt becomes too soft above 95°F and can tear during handling.
- Use extra cement in overlap areas: Florida's wind-driven rain finds every gap. Apply roofing cement generously in all lap areas, not just a thin bead.
- Avoid installation during rain: This seems obvious, but afternoon thunderstorms can catch you off guard. Check the forecast and have tarps ready.
- Double the nail frequency at edges: In high-wind zones like Pinellas County, nail at 3-inch intervals along all edges rather than the standard 6-inch spacing.
How Rolled Roofing Fails in Florida
Understanding how rolled roofing degrades in our climate helps explain why its lifespan is so much shorter here than in northern states. Several factors work together to accelerate failure:
UV Degradation
Florida receives some of the highest UV radiation levels in the continental United States. The ceramic granules on rolled roofing protect the underlying asphalt from UV light, but a single-layer product loses those granules faster than multi-layered shingles. Once granules are gone, the exposed asphalt dries out, cracks, and becomes brittle. On a south-facing surface in Pinellas County, significant granule loss can occur within 3 to 4 years.
Thermal Cycling
Florida roof surfaces regularly cycle between 80°F overnight and 160°F or higher during afternoon sun. This constant expansion and contraction stresses the seams and cement bonds in rolled roofing. Over time, lap cement cracks and separates, creating gaps where water intrudes. Shingle systems handle thermal cycling better because the overlapping design accommodates movement without opening gaps.
Wind Uplift
Rolled roofing has minimal wind resistance compared to properly nailed and sealed shingle systems. During tropical storms and hurricanes, which affect Pinellas County regularly, the edges and seams of rolled roofing are vulnerable to peeling and blow-off. Most asphalt roll roofing products are rated for only 50 to 70 mph winds. The Florida Building Code requires roofing rated for 150 to 170 mph in most of Pinellas County.
Moisture Infiltration
A single layer of material means a single point of failure. If the surface cracks, a seam opens, or a nail works loose, water goes straight to the deck. With multi-layer shingle systems, water has to penetrate several layers before reaching the deck, providing redundancy that rolled roofing simply lacks.
Better Alternatives for Low-Slope and Flat Roofs
Many homeowners consider rolled roofing because they have a low-slope roof (less than 3:12 pitch) where standard shingles aren't appropriate. If that's your situation, there are better options that cost more upfront but save money over the life of the roof:
| System | Best For | Cost/Sq Ft | FL Lifespan | Wind Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPO membrane (60 mil) | Flat/low-slope residential and commercial | $5.50-8.00 | 20-25 years | Up to 165 mph |
| Modified bitumen (2-ply) | Low-slope residential additions | $4.50-7.00 | 15-20 years | Up to 150 mph |
| EPDM rubber | Budget flat roofing | $4.00-6.00 | 15-20 years | Up to 140 mph |
| PVC membrane | Premium flat roofing, restaurants | $7.00-10.00 | 25-30 years | Up to 165 mph |
| Asphalt roll roofing | Sheds, temporary | $2.00-4.00 | 5-10 years | 50-70 mph |
For a comprehensive comparison of flat roofing systems for Florida properties, visit our flat roof guide.
Rolled Roofing and Florida Insurance
Florida's property insurance market has become increasingly strict about roofing requirements. If you're considering rolled roofing on any structure that's part of your homeowner's insurance policy, be aware of several potential issues:
- Coverage denial: Some Florida insurers will not provide wind coverage for structures roofed with rolled roofing, particularly in coastal wind zones.
- Premium surcharges: Even if coverage is available, expect higher premiums compared to properties with code-compliant shingle, metal, or membrane roofing systems.
- Claim disputes: If storm damage occurs to a rolled roof, insurers may argue that the roofing material was inadequate for the wind zone, reducing or denying the claim.
- Inspection failures: Four-point inspections, required for homes over a certain age in Florida, evaluate roofing condition and type. Rolled roofing on a primary residence can result in an unfavorable inspection that affects your ability to obtain or renew insurance.
DIY Rolled Roofing vs. Professional Installation
Rolled roofing is one of the most DIY-friendly roofing materials. For a small shed or porch roof, a reasonably handy homeowner can complete the job in a weekend. However, there are important considerations:
When DIY Makes Sense
- The structure is a detached shed, carport, or non-living-space outbuilding
- The roof area is less than 300 square feet
- The roof slope is between 1:12 and 4:12
- You have basic hand tool skills and are comfortable working at modest heights
- The project doesn't require a building permit (check Pinellas County requirements)
When to Hire a Professional
- Any structure with living space underneath
- Roofs larger than 300 square feet
- Steep slopes above 4:12
- When a building permit is required (professional installation ensures code compliance)
- If you discover deck damage or rot during tear-off
Maintaining Rolled Roofing in Florida
If you've already installed rolled roofing or inherited it with a property purchase, proper maintenance can help maximize its limited lifespan in our Florida climate:
- Inspect twice per year: Check in spring (before hurricane season) and fall (after hurricane season) for lifted edges, cracked seams, missing granules, and pooling water.
- Re-seal seams annually: Apply fresh roofing cement to all lap seams and edge details every year. Florida's thermal cycling breaks down adhesive bonds faster than northern climates.
- Clear debris promptly: Leaf litter and debris trap moisture against the surface, accelerating granule loss and encouraging algae growth. Keep the surface clear, especially after storms.
- Patch immediately: Any crack, tear, or blister should be patched the same week it's discovered. On a single-layer system, even a small breach lets water reach the deck and begin causing damage.
- Plan for replacement: Don't wait for rolled roofing to fail completely. Once you see widespread granule loss, multiple crack repairs, or seam lifting, it's time to upgrade to a proper roofing system before deck damage occurs.
Choosing the Right Roofing for Your Pinellas County Property
The decision to use rolled roofing should be driven by the specific application, not just the upfront cost. Here's our straightforward recommendation for Pinellas County property owners:
- For sheds and small outbuildings: Rolled roofing is fine. It's cheap, easy to install, and adequate for non-critical structures. Budget for replacement every 5 to 8 years.
- For porches and carports: Consider modified bitumen or a TPO membrane instead. The cost difference is modest, and the lifespan improvement is substantial.
- For primary residences: Never use rolled roofing. Invest in the best roofing material for your Florida home based on your roof slope, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
- For flat/low-slope additions: A proper flat roof system (TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen) costs $2 to $4 more per square foot but lasts 3 to 5 times longer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rolled Roofing
How long does rolled roofing last in Florida?
Rolled roofing typically lasts 5 to 10 years in Florida. The intense UV exposure, summer heat exceeding 95 degrees, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms accelerate degradation. Asphalt roll roofing on south-facing surfaces in Pinellas County often fails closer to the 5-year mark, while shaded or north-facing applications may reach 8 to 10 years.
Can you install rolled roofing over existing shingles?
While it is technically possible to install rolled roofing over existing shingles, it is not recommended. Layering traps moisture between materials, accelerates rot in the roof deck, and voids most manufacturer warranties. In Pinellas County, the Florida Building Code limits roof covering layers and typically requires tear-off before re-roofing.
Is rolled roofing good for a shed or porch in Florida?
Rolled roofing is an acceptable choice for sheds, detached carports, and small porch roofs in Florida when budget is the primary concern. These structures are less critical than a primary residence, so the shorter lifespan and limited wind resistance are more tolerable. For sheds, asphalt roll roofing provides adequate weatherproofing at a fraction of the cost of architectural shingles.
What is the difference between rolled roofing and regular shingles?
Rolled roofing is a single-layer mineral-surfaced asphalt product sold in 36-inch-wide rolls covering about 100 square feet per roll. Regular shingles are individual pieces installed in overlapping courses, creating multiple layers of protection. Shingles offer better wind resistance (130+ mph rated), longer lifespan (25 to 50 years), improved aesthetics, and greater impact resistance compared to rolled roofing.
How much does asphalt roll roofing cost per square foot?
Asphalt roll roofing materials cost $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot in 2026. Professionally installed, expect to pay $2.00 to $4.00 per square foot in Pinellas County. By comparison, architectural shingles run $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot installed, and TPO membrane costs $5.50 to $8.00 per square foot installed.
Does rolled roofing meet Florida building code requirements?
Rolled roofing can meet Florida Building Code requirements for certain applications, but it struggles with the wind uplift ratings required in most of Pinellas County. The code requires roofing products to carry a valid Florida Product Approval, and the product must meet wind speed requirements for the specific location. Many rolled roofing products are not rated for the 150 to 170 mph ultimate design wind speeds required in coastal Pinellas County.
What is rolled metal roofing and how does it compare to asphalt roll roofing?
Rolled metal roofing is coiled steel or aluminum sheeting that is formed into panels on-site using a portable roll-forming machine. It is fundamentally different from asphalt roll roofing. Rolled metal roofing lasts 40 to 60 years, handles high winds, and resists UV degradation. Asphalt roll roofing lasts 5 to 10 years and offers minimal wind resistance. Despite the similar name, they are completely different products and price points.
Get Expert Roofing Advice for Your Pinellas County Property
Rolled roofing has its place, but most Pinellas County homeowners are better served by investing in a roofing system that can handle our extreme UV, heat, wind, and humidity. Whether you're roofing a small shed or replacing the roof on your primary residence, understanding the true cost of each option over its full lifespan is the key to making a smart decision.
If you're not sure which roofing system is right for your property, we're happy to help. We serve all of Pinellas County, from Tarpon Springs to St. Pete Beach, and we'll give you honest advice about what your property actually needs. Sometimes that's a premium roofing system. Sometimes rolled roofing on a garden shed is exactly the right call. We'll tell you straight.