Top Signs Your Roof Needs Repair Before Hurricane Season

hurricane season roof inspection

Inspect Your Roof Before Hurricane Season

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs June 1 – November 30. Experts forecast an Above Average Season with up to 20 storms. Before a major storm hits South Florida, your roof could be at risk. Many Palm Beach homeowners miss early signs of damage that can lead to major leaks and insurance headaches.

Common Post-Hurricane Roof Issues:

  • Missing shingles or tiles
  • Loose flashing or torn underlayment
  • Water stains on ceilings or attic beams

Why You Need a Professional Roof Inspection

Not all damage is visible from the ground. A licensed roofing contractor can catch hidden damage and document it properly for insurance claims.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until you see a leak—by then, mold and wood rot may already be setting in.

What We Look for During a Post-Storm Inspection:

  • Roof deck condition
  • Drainage issues and ponding water
  • Impact damage from flying debris

For accurate information on hurricane roof safety, check out FEMA’s roofing resources

Think you may have roof damage? Book your free roof inspection now

/0 Comments/by

Metal vs. Shingle Roofs: Which Roof is Best for Your Home

shingle vs metal roof palm beach

Metal vs. Shingle Roofs: Which Is Best for Palm Beach Homes?

Palm Beach homeowners face a unique challenge: choosing a roof that can withstand wind, salt, and sun—while still looking great. Let’s break down the pros and cons of metal and shingle roofing in Florida.

Shingle Roofs: Affordable & Familiar

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Available in a wide range of colors and styles
  • Lifespan: 15–25 years

Metal Roofs: Durable & Storm-Resistant

  • Superior wind and hail resistance
  • Reflects heat for better energy efficiency
  • Lifespan: 40+ years

Which Roof Is Best for Your Home?

If you’re near the water or planning to stay long-term, metal offers better long-term ROI. For inland homes or budget-conscious projects, shingles are still a great choice.

Learn more from the Florida Building Commission

Still unsure? Our team at Sun Catcher Roofing will walk you through both options with real material samples.

Request a consultation

/0 Comments/by

How Much Does a New Roof Cost 2025

roof cost 2025 palm beach

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Palm Beach County in 2025?

Roof pricing can feel like a mystery in 2025 with the looming Tariffs —but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for a new roof in Palm Beach in 2025. Note, these prices are only an average. For the most accurate price, please contact us.

Roof Cost Factors:

  • Material type (shingle, tile, metal)
  • Roof size and slope
  • Permitting and labor
  • Hurricane-strapping and local code compliance

Average Roof Replacement Prices (Palm Beach 2025):

  • Architectural shingles: $14,000–$24,000+
  • Metal roof: $22,000–$60,000+
  • Tile roof: $25,000–$50,000+

Get more insights from HomeAdvisor’s roofing cost guide

Get an Accurate Roofing Estimate

Every home is different. That’s why we offer free, on-site estimates tailored to your needs, complete with inspection photos and material comparisons.

No surprises. No pressure. Just expert advice and transparent pricing.

Schedule your free roofing estimate today

/0 Comments/by
,

Dream Home Gets Dream Roof

Luxury Coastal Roofing in Jupiter, Florida: A DaVinci Bellaforté Shake Showcase

Florida residents Mary and Larry Anderson recently brought their dream home to life—an elegant 9,000-square-foot waterfront estate in Jupiter, Florida, complete with a guest house, copper accents, and a hurricane-rated roofing system built to last.

Choosing the Right Roof for a Coastal Home

The Andersons’ stunning new build features DaVinci Bellaforté Shake in Mountain VariBlend, a high-performance composite shake roof chosen for both aesthetics and performance.

“We were looking for the look of real cedar shakes without the upkeep,” said Larry Anderson. “After researching online, my wife found DaVinci, and it was exactly what we wanted—it looks even better than the real thing.”

Built to Withstand Florida Weather

In coastal Florida, curb appeal means nothing without resilience. That’s why the Andersons were drawn to DaVinci’s Miami-Dade County Code-approved product, designed for Florida’s toughest storms.

  1. Rated for winds up to 110 mph
  2. Class A fire resistance
  3. Class 4 impact resistance
  4. Resistant to salt air, mold, and fading

Explore more about DaVinci’s Bellaforté Shake product specs

Installed by Sun Catcher Roofing

The entire roofing system—including 12,000 square feet of coverage, breezeways, and porches—was expertly installed by Sun Catcher Roofing, a trusted contractor based in Fort Lauderdale.

Sun Catcher also installed custom copper accents, including:

  • Three handcrafted copper cupolas

  • Copper valley metal and flashing

“This roofing system isn’t just beautiful—it’s engineered to protect,” says Dave Neddeff, owner of Sun Catcher Roofing. “Between the premium synthetic tiles and custom copper, this roof is a perfect match for Jupiter’s coastal conditions.”

Why Homeowners Choose Composite Shake in Jupiter, FL

  • Longevity: Unlike real wood, DaVinci tiles don’t crack, rot, or invite insects.

  • Low Maintenance: No resealing, no staining, and no replacing individual shakes.

  • Authenticity: The one-inch thick, 12-inch wide tiles mimic natural cedar with superior durability.

Ready for Your Dream Roof?

Whether you’re building a custom home or replacing your current roof, Sun Catcher Roofing delivers high-end solutions designed for Florida’s coastal climate.

Contact us today for a composite shake roof consultation in Jupiter 

Original article by Davinci Roofscapes

/by

Roofing Basic: Know the 10 Most Common Terminologies

Roofing Terms Every Florida Homeowner Should Know Before a Roof Replacement

Replacing or repairing your roof in Florida? If roofing jargon leaves you scratching your head, you’re not alone. Understanding common roofing terms can help you make smarter decisions, especially when dealing with roofing contractors, insurance claims, or storm repairs.

To make things easier, we’ve put together this guide with 12 of the most common roofing terms—explained in simple language for homeowners in Palm Beach and across Florida.

1. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are a classic roofing material with a rich history, especially in Spanish and Mediterranean-style homes across Florida. They’re fired at nearly 2,000°F, making them extremely durable, fade-resistant, and fireproof—perfect for Florida’s harsh sun and storms. Expect a lifespan of up to 50 years.

 Learn more from the West Lake Royal on clay tiles

2. Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles offer a similar aesthetic to clay but come at a lower price point. These tiles are heavy-duty, come in a range of colors, and work well in humid or hurricane-prone regions like South Florida. They typically last 30 to 40 years with proper maintenance.

3. Roof Deck

The deck is the structural foundation of your roof, typically made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). All roofing materials are installed on top of the deck. Damage to the deck from leaks or rot must be addressed before any roof replacement.

4. Drip Edge

A metal flashing installed at the edge of your roof to direct water away and prevent it from seeping under your shingles. It’s a required component for Florida homes to meet current building codes.

5. Elastomeric Coating

This flexible, rubberized coating is common on flat roofs or low-slope surfaces. It helps reflect sunlight, reduce cooling costs, and form a waterproof membrane—ideal for Florida’s hot, wet climate.

6. Flashing

Used around roof penetrations like chimneys, skylights, or vents, flashing seals openings to prevent water intrusion. Florida homes often use corrosion-resistant metals like aluminum or copper.

7. Impact Resistance

This rating tells you how well a roofing material stands up to hail, falling branches, or foot traffic. Florida homes benefit from Class 4 impact-rated roofs, which can also lower insurance premiums.

Visit IBHS Fortified Roof standards for more about impact-resistant roofing.

8. Lap

A lap is where one piece of roofing material overlaps another to create a seal. Laps are critical for waterproofing systems like underlayment, flashing, and membranes.

9. Layering

Roofing systems are made of multiple protective layers. In Florida, local codes usually limit layering (e.g., re-roofing over old shingles) due to hurricane risk. A full tear-off is often the best choice for proper adhesion and ventilation.

10. Metal Roofing

Lightweight, long-lasting, and resistant to fire and rot, metal roofs are gaining popularity across Florida. They’re also wind-resistant and may qualify you for discounts on homeowner’s insurance.

See Florida-specific tips at Metal Roofing Alliance

11. Ridge Vent

Located at the peak of the roof, ridge vents allow hot, humid air to escape the attic, reducing moisture and helping your home stay cooler. Essential for proper airflow in Florida homes.

12. Underlayment

A waterproof or water-resistant barrier installed beneath your shingles. In Florida, synthetic underlayments are popular for their durability and ability to withstand wind uplift and moisture.

Ready to Talk Roofing?

Whether you’re considering a new roof or need a repair, understanding these terms will help you ask the right questions and spot red flags. At Sun Catcher Roofing, we believe an informed homeowner is an empowered one.

Schedule a free roof inspection or quote today 

/by

Preparing for Hurricane Season

Florida Hurricane Season

Hurricane season for those who live in South Florida can be a challenging time of year for both business and homeowners. Even if you’re lucky enough to avoid the path of the hurricane’s eye you will likely still feel their impact as they churn high winds and pelting rains that can be experienced hundreds of miles from the epicenter. The good news is that if you know how to prepare ahead of time you can help avoid problems and damage to your property. That includes your all-important roof, which is the lid that keeps all of that intense weather from invading your home, where it can do extensive, expensive damage and even threaten the health and safety of your family. Here are some expert tips that can help ensure you are ready for this year’s weather – no matter what Mother Nature throws at you in the form of hurricane season chaos.

Check the Roof and Gutter System

Before it’s too late, check your roof and gutters. Conduct preventative monitoring at least twice a year, if not every season.

  1. Don’t risk doing it on a high ladder. Every year many people wind up in the hospital or worse because of falls while trying to scale a ladder or roof. Instead if you have an annual maintenance plan with your roofer, call them and have them conduct the inspection. If you don’t have a maintenance plan then we suggest you get one.
  1. Look for telltale signs of potential weakness such as cracked tiles or flashing around vents and dormers. Replace any loose, curling, or missing roofing tiles for example, and ensure that flashing around vents and dormers is intact and properly sealed.
  1. Be sure to check the gutters, too, to make sure they are clean of leaves and debris and are not sagging or bent. They need to be able to drain properly, and that requires the correct angle to encourage the water to flow into the downspouts.

Take Advantage of Expert Help

Always keep in mind that the roof on your home is one of the most vital structural components, because it protects the entire house. If yours is damaged in a hurricane (and South Florida has seen its fair share) because it was not adequately maintained, will cause tremendous aggravation, not to mention an additional expense that could have potentially been avoided.

When there is insufficient support beneath the surface of the roof which can happen if the original roof was not properly designed or if seepage has created wood rot in the decking, all these damages may go completely undetected until a serious leak develops.

Regardless of what kind of roof you have and whether it is pitched or flat, you should protect your investment by proactively keeping an eye on it. Having a qualified roofing company perform maintenance checks annually will provide additional peace of mind, during a hurricane.

Other Preparation Tips

As soon as you learn that a storm is developing, while there is still plenty of time to get ready, you should start at the boundary of your property and police the area. Work toward your house while looking for any stray items – including lawn furniture, fallen branches, toys, tools, or trash containers that could go airborne in high winds. Gather all the loose items and put them in a secure location such as your basement, garage, or tool shed.

Tree limbs are another potential hazard, especially if they are rotted or diseased. Always keep trees trimmed so that there is no dead or rotten wood that become dislodged. It is also a good idea to have a qualified and reputable arborist check the trees on your property every year or two to make sure that they are in good health and that you do not have any limbs that are ready to come crashing down on you or your roof.

Propane Gas Tanks

You should never store propane inside your home, where it can be potentially hazardous. You also don’t want to leave it out in the middle of hurricane winds, either, because a strong enough wind can hurl it through the air like a hand grenade – or send it flying toward your house with so much force that it will hit it like a wrecking ball.

The solution is to tie it securely to a structure like a sturdy tree stump, the outer wall of a tool shed, a solid retaining wall, or a fence post that is cemented into the ground. If you cannot figure out a safe place to tether the tank just ask your local fire department for advice on what to do until the storm passes.

By the way, if your house uses some form of natural gas for heating and cooking, learn how to turn off the main valve in the event of an emergency and teach that procedure to other family members. That way if a line gets ruptured you can stop the gas from leaking by shutting down the source of the gas before it enters your home.

/by

How Long Should Roofs Last ?

how long does roof last in south florida

How Long Does a Roof Last in Palm Beach? Roof Lifespan, Materials & Maintenance Tips

Whether you own a residential property in West Palm Beach or a commercial building along the Intracoastal, your roof is one of your biggest investments. But before you commit to a new roofing system, it’s important to ask:

How long will your roof last in Palm Beach?

The answer depends on several key factors—especially in South Florida, where intense sun, humidity, and hurricane seasons can dramatically impact your roof’s life expectancy.

Factors That Impact Roof Longevity in Palm Beach

Not all roofs are created equal. In Palm Beach County, your roof is constantly exposed to:

  • UV radiation from year-round sun
  • Windborne debris during hurricane season
  • Salt air if you’re near the coast

Here’s how different roofing materials compare:

Roof TypeLifespan (Avg.)
Asphalt Shingles15–25 years
Concrete Tiles30–50 years
Clay Tiles50+ years
Metal Roofing40–70 years

Source: National Roofing Contractors Association

The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance

Many Palm Beach homeowners are unaware of existing damage until it’s too late. Cracks or splits in roofing materials can go unnoticed—especially if you’re inspecting from the ground.

Leaks may already be forming beneath the surface, slowly leading to mold, rot, or structural damage.

Solution: Schedule an annual roof inspection with a licensed roofer to catch small issues before they become costly repairs.


Sun Catcher Roofing offers full photo reports and proactive maintenance plans.

Why Metal Roofs Are a Smart Long-Term Investment in Palm Beach

Modern metal roofs offer exceptional protection and value for South Florida homes and businesses.

Key Benefits of Metal Roofing in Florida:

  • Lifespan up to 70 years with proper installation
  • Energy savings from reflective surfaces = lower A/C bills
  • Hurricane-resistant and fire-rated
  • Insurance discounts often available
  • Stylish colors and finishes that boost curb appeal

And yes—it’s true. The metal roof on Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello home, installed in the late 1700s, is still intact today.

Pro Tip: Recoat Your Metal Roof Every 10–15 Years

Recoating helps maintain weather resistance and keeps your roof looking sharp, even near the salt air of Palm Beach Island or Jupiter Inlet.

Final Thoughts: Extend the Life of Your Roof

To get the most value out of your roofing investment:

  • Choose the right material for your climate
  • Work with a licensed, insured contractor
  • Schedule annual inspections and maintenance

A little prevention now could save you tens of thousands later.

Ready to Maximize Your Roof’s Lifespan?

Whether you’re considering a metal roof upgrade or need a routine inspection, Sun Catcher Roofing is Palm Beach’s trusted expert in long-lasting roofing systems.

Schedule your free roof consultation today

/by

Cheap Can Be More Expensive in the End: Breaking down the real cost of roofing services.

Homeowners typically try to cut costs as much as they can when they are shopping around for roofing services, whether they need to replace their aging roof with a brand new one or they need a repair to the one they have to get a few more years of life out of it. That’s a smart thing to do, as any consumer knows. But especially when you are shopping for something as important to the well-being of your home, you should always value quality as one of the key components of a roofing service, and price that in accordingly. Just think about it, your most important possessions in life are all under your roof. Here are five important questions to ask before narrowing down your selection of a roofing company to provide your services.

Do They Have References?

Always check references and licensing to ensure your roofer is insured. Insurance is important to cover any liability if someone is injured while working on the roof of your residential or commercial property.

Be warned, don’t automatically assume that they have great references just by reading their testimonials on their website or in the marketing materials, either. You should be able to contact previous customers and talk to them yourself about the quality of the work done for them to make sure it was top-notch.

Is Upfront Payment Required?

Many building contractors ask for payment in advance, and that is especially common in the roofing business. Typically the building owner will pay 10% upfront, 40% upon arrival, an additional 40% when the tiles are completed and 50% upon roofing completion.

Does it Include Removing the Old Roof?

Another way that roofers give bids or quotes for their services is that they offer to install a new roof at a rock-bottom price. Ensure there are no hidden costs or fees and that your roofer has itemized roof removal and disposal in their quote.

What About the Materials Used?

Roofing materials also vary widely, and that can be a critical part of the cost. For example porcelain tile, copper standing seam and true slate are more expensive than sheet metal and clay tiles.

We recommend estimating costs not just based on a one-time roof repair, replacement, or installation, but also over 10, 15, or 20 years. Ask your roofer if there are any maintenance programs you can participate which will help increase the life-time value of your roof. Even if you plan to sell the home before that time, your new buyer will have the roof inspected and a roof that has been well maintained over time will hold better value than one that is not.

What about Clean-Up

By all means, be sure to negotiate a price based on the roofers doing a professional job of cleaning up after themselves. Don’t be that neighbor with roofing debris all over your lawn for weeks before you hire a crew for the disposal.

Don’t get stuck trying to save a buck at the expensive of your entire home and its contents. Be a smart consumer, do your research and be sure to take the time to hammer out the small details beforehand. Choose a roofer who checks out best for all your priorities and remember if you think a good roofer is expensive, try a bad one!

/by

Homeowner Survival Guide: How to pick the right roofer.

To ensure that you pick the right professional for your roofing job it helps to first understand what these contractors do, how to select and hire them, and what red flags to watch for and pitfalls to avoid. Then you can decide with confidence that your roofer – and the roof they provide – will be dependable, reliable, and worth your investment of time and money.

Here is a list of the most important things to look for in a roofing contractor so there are no bad surprises, only outstanding service and professional work, at a price that works for you.

Consulting and Planning

A roofing job doesn’t just start when the crew arrives to climb on top of your house. Your roofer should also be a consulting partner in the planning stages of your re-roof or roof replacement. Your roofers’ job is to understand your unique needs and preferences and guide you throughout your decision making regarding what will work and not.

While you may only have a general idea or vision of what you want, a skillful and resourceful roofer can help to show you options, price comparisons, and examples of their work done of other satisfied customers.

Cost Estimations and Scheduling

Part of the planning process is to make a good faith estimate of the cost and completion schedule for the job. In order to properly gauge costs, it is necessary for your roofer to specify what materials are desired for the project and gather information regarding pricing and availability from local or out-of-town roofing supply companies.

Another thing to consider when selecting the right roofer is whether or not your roofer works as an authorized distributer for high-quality brands of roofing tiles, metal and materials? Research whether they have a strong relationship with suppliers to ensure they get their materials on time, and can also get them in the future if you need to do a roof patch or repair?

Remember things can always go wrong…Weather conditions or delivery times for custom products may delay a project, but an experienced roofer will communicate frequently informing you of the timelines for customized requests.

Inspections and Permits

Most roofing projects require permission from governing authorities such as municipalities and homeowner’s associations. You may find a roofing contractor who accepts responsibility for securing or “pulling” all necessary permits in a timely manner and who will schedule to meet with the inspectors for required periodic inspections of the work in progress, which will save you lots of time. Application fees should also be factored into the overall project budget estimate ahead of time, so you know exactly what you are paying and why.

Managing Materials, Deliveries, and Clean-Up

Once the work begins, roofing materials will be bought and delivered to the work site in a way that does not disrupt the flow of the project but also has little to no impact on your living space or property. Dropping a load of sheet metal in your driveway or lawn for example, will cause large inconveniences that the contractor should ensure doesn’t occur.

Similarly, cleaning up after each day’s work is important for maintaining a safe and tidy work environment, especially if you are living in the home while remodeling is underway. Proper policing of the area also should include making certain that stray materials or roofing debris don’t wind up on your or neighbors’ lawn.

The best home roofing contractors will essentially oversee and execute your entire project from planning and conception to conclusion, consulting with you along the way to keep you updated and informed of progress. They will offer you various options for how to repair or replace your roof, including alternatives you may have not yet thought about such as more durable tiles or the cooling elements of a metal roof. Most importantly your roofer ultimately should be someone you develop trust in, which you can confirm with a check on their references.

 

/by