Living in Tampa comes with sunshine, rain, high humidity, and of course, the yearly hurricane season. For owners of manufactured and mobile homes, the roof is the first line of defence against these elements. But when the original roof starts to wear down, leak, or lose energy efficiency, many Tampa homeowners face an important question: Should you repair, replace, or consider a roofover?
A roofover is exactly what it sounds like—installing a new roofing system directly over the existing roof. For mobile homes in Tampa, roof-overs can be a cost-effective, durable, and energy-efficient solution, especially when done with materials like metal, TPO, or asphalt shingles. In this blog, we’ll explore when a roof-over makes sense, the best materials for Tampa’s climate, and how this upgrade can add value and comfort to your mobile home.
What Is a Roofover?
A roof-over is the process of placing a new roofing system over an existing roof without removing the old one. Unlike traditional roof replacement, which strips away old materials, a roof-over saves time, reduces waste, and can be less expensive.
For Tampa mobile homeowners, this method can be especially appealing because:
- Less mess and labor compared to full replacement.
- Stronger structure when combined with durable materials like metal.
- Immediate energy efficiency improvements with reflective surfaces.
When Does a Roof-Over Make Sense?
Signs It’s Time to Consider a Roof-Over
- Leaks or water stains inside your mobile home.
- Energy bills rising due to poor insulation.
- Shingles curling, cracking, or missing.
- Roof nearing the end of its lifespan but still structurally sound.
Tampa-Specific Considerations
Tampa’s hot summers, heavy rainfall, and hurricane-force winds mean you can’t just choose any roof-over option. The structure must handle:
- Wind uplift during storms.
- Heat reflection to keep energy bills down.
- Water resistance for heavy rains.
Roof-Over Material Options for Tampa
1. Metal Roof-Overs
Metal roofing is the gold standard for Tampa mobile homes.
Benefits:
- Wind resistant up to 140 mph.
- Reflective properties reduce cooling costs.
- Lasts 40–60 years with minimal maintenance.
- Qualifies for insurance discounts due to durability.
Drawbacks:
- Higher upfront cost than shingles.
- Can dent under falling debris.
2. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) Roof-Overs
TPO is a single-ply membrane roofing system often used in commercial settings but increasingly popular for mobile homes.
Benefits:
- Seamless installation reduces leak risk.
- Excellent UV reflection, lowering indoor temps.
- Lightweight—ideal for mobile home structures.
- Resistant to mold and algae growth in Tampa’s humidity.
Drawbacks:
- Not as long-lasting as metal (15–20 years).
- Limited color/design choices.
3. Asphalt Shingle Roof-Overs
Shingles remain the most common roofing option due to affordability and variety.
Benefits:
- Budget-friendly.
- Wide selection of colors and textures.
- Easy to repair or patch if damaged.
Drawbacks:
- Shorter lifespan (15–25 years).
- Vulnerable to wind uplift in hurricanes.
- Heat absorption may increase cooling costs.
Comparing Roof-Over Materials for Tampa Mobile Homes
| Feature | Metal Roof-Over | TPO Roof-Over | Asphalt Shingle Roof-Over |
| Lifespan | 40–60 years | 15–20 years | 15–25 years |
| Wind Resistance | Excellent (up to 140 mph) | Good (seamless) | Moderate |
| Energy Efficiency | High (reflective) | High (UV blocking) | Moderate |
| Insurance Savings | Strong | Moderate | Minimal |
| Cost (Upfront) | High | Moderate | Low |
Benefits of Roof-Overs Beyond Weather Protection
- Energy Efficiency: Reflective coatings and better insulation reduce Tampa cooling bills.
- Curb Appeal: A clean, new roof-over adds value to your home.
- Insurance Discounts: Upgrading to hurricane-rated materials may reduce premiums.
- Faster Installation: Less downtime compared to full replacement.
When Not to Do a Roof-Over
Roof-overs are not ideal if:
- The current roof has structural damage (rot, sagging, or compromised decking).
- You already have multiple layers of roofing.
- You want a long-term solution without weight concerns (tile not recommended for mobile homes).
Final Thoughts
For Tampa mobile homeowners, a roof-over is often the smartest choice when balancing cost, durability, and hurricane readiness. Whether you choose metal, TPO, or shingles, the upgrade can extend your roof’s lifespan, improve comfort, and even reduce insurance costs.
At ASC Aluminum, we specialize in installing roof-over systems tailored to Florida’s weather. With decades of experience protecting homes from Tampa’s toughest storms, we’ll help you choose the right material for lasting protection and peace of mind.