Roofing Archives

The Power of the Sun: Why a Solar Roofing System Is a Smart Move for Florida Homes

May 27, 2025

Florida is famous for its beaches, palm trees, and year-round sunshine. That same sunshine is also one of the state's most valuable natural resources. With more than 230 sunny days a year, we are uniquely positioned in Florida to take full advantage of residential solar roofing systems.

A solar roofing system isn't just a good idea, it's becoming one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make. Thanks to lower equipment costs, better technology, and strong government support, more families are turning their rooftops into clean energy powerhouses.

Why Florida Is Ideal for Solar Energy

The Sunshine State lives up to its name. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Florida ranked among the top three states for total solar electricity generation in 2023, producing over 14,000 thousand megawatt-hours from utility-scale facilities alone EIA-Florida Profile. That figure doesn't even include thousands of homes now generating their own electricity from solar panels.

With high solar potential, moderate year-round temperatures, and rising energy costs, Florida homeowners are reaping big benefits from rooftop solar.

How a Solar Roofing System Works

A solar roofing system includes photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity can be used immediately to power your home, stored in a battery system for later, or sent back into the grid through net metering. In Florida, utilities are required to credit homeowners for any excess energy they produce, helping offset future bills Florida PSC – Net Metering.

Over time, your system can produce enough power to significantly reduce, or even eliminate, your electricity bills.

Savings That Add Up Over Time

The financial return on a solar roofing system is one of the biggest motivators for homeowners. Electricity costs are rising across the U.S., and Florida is no exception. The average monthly electric bill in Florida during summer months is around $175–$250 according to EIA data EIA – Electricity Sales & Price. That's over $2,000 a year.

Installing solar can lock in your energy costs and protect you from rate hikes for the next 25 years or more. Many systems pay for themselves in just 7 to 10 years. Beyond that, you're enjoying almost free electricity.

Big Incentives Make It Even Easier

If you install a solar energy system on your home, you're eligible for a 30% federal tax credit through the Residential Clean Energy Credit. This covers not just the panels, but installation and associated equipment costs Energy.gov – Federal Tax Credit.

Florida adds even more savings:

Sales Tax Exemption: Solar systems are 100% exempt from Florida's state sales tax, immediately lowering the cost FL Dept. of Revenue – TIP 19A01-10.
Property Tax Exemption: Adding solar panels increases your home's value—but Florida law ensures that increase is exempt from property tax calculations FL Statute 196.175.

Combined, these incentives can save you thousands right from the start.

A Boost in Home Value

Beyond monthly savings, solar roofing systems can increase your home's resale value. A study from the U.S. Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Lab found that homes with solar sold for about $15,000 more than similar homes without solar LBNL – Selling the Sun.

Solar is seen as a modern, energy-efficient upgrade, similar to a kitchen remodel or new windows, but with built-in financial returns.

Built for the Future

As more utilities shift toward renewable energy, having your own solar system puts you ahead of the curve. It means less reliance on the grid, lower carbon emissions, and a step toward sustainability. Plus, newer systems are sleek, low-profile, and integrate with modern roofing materials, making them as stylish as they are efficient.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, or just take control of your home's energy use, a solar roofing system makes sense—especially in Florida. With smart policy, generous tax credits, and nearly year-round sunshine, the path to solar has never been more accessible.

At Stonebridge Roofing, Energy & Exteriors, we proudly offer the GAF Timberline Solar™ roofing system, the first nailable solar shingle designed to be part of your roof, not just installed on top of it.

Streamlined Design: Timberline Solar™ integrates directly with your roof deck for a sleek, low-profile finish that blends form and function.
Durable & American-Made: Engineered for strength, performance, and lasting beauty—built in the USA with industry-leading warranties.

As the future of energy moves toward clean, renewable sources, homeowners who make the switch today are not only investing in their own financial future, they're helping build a better tomorrow.

Ready to explore solar for your Florida home? Contact our expert roofing contractors at Stonebridge today for a consultation!

(904) 262-6636

Storm Prep – Emergency Roof Repairs

May 9, 2024

When a big storm is bearing down on your area, it’s probably too late for major roof repairs, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Emergency roof repair services can help minimize immediate risks and reduce potential damage. It’s never too late to take action. Here are a few quick, critical steps you can take right away before the storm hits.

Pre-Storm Checklist:

1. Look for Leaks or Stains Indoors:

Visible stains on a ceiling or wall could mean an obvious roof problem. Some roof leaks can be tricky though if water enters the attic and travels along framing like trusses, dripping somewhere unrelated to the leak. If you see a stain along an exterior wall or ceiling you may need to take some emergency protection steps.

2. Look for Debris in Your Gutters:

We all know that gutters will gather leaves and dirt throughout the year, but you may not know how damaging this gutter gunk can be. Most Florida roofs are made from materials that wear over time, like fiberglass/asphalt shingles, tiles, etc. As the material wears down, it sheds and will usually collect in the gutters. If the water in your gutters is unable to drain properly, it will gather and potentially leak into the walls and ceilings of your home. If you inspect your gutters and find roof debris, you may need to take emergency protection steps or call a roofing expert for advice.

3. Exterior Inspection:

Take a few minutes to do a visual inspection of the exterior of your roof. Materials will degrade over time. For asphalt shingle roofs, there are often small corners that may pull up away from the roof. It’s often common for shingles to pull away and blow off completely in heavy winds. You should also look to see if there are any sags or discolored spots on your roof. These may be signs of damage that could lead to leaks soon. Be sure to take pictures, make notes, and document everything.

4. Trim Your Trees:

Check around your home for any low-hanging or dead tree branches that could potentially fall and damage your roof in heavy winds. You can trim away small branches if it’s safe to do so, but leave the heavy stuff for professionals.

5. Tarp Your Roof

If you see any areas of large damage before the storm, it’s important to try and prevent further damage. You can buy a tarp at almost every hardware store and most likely you can find one large enough to cover 3 feet past each edge of the damaged spot. Lowes has a helpful video on how to tarp your roof.

Post-Storm Checklist:

After the storm passes, and when you are sure it’s safe, there are a few post-storm things to check off. If you think you are experiencing any leaks or think you may have had roof damage, Here are the 5 most important things to do next.

1. Inspect your Property as soon as Possible

Do an inspection similar to your pre-storm check. Look for loose or missing shingles, damage from tree branches, debris on the roof, sagging spots, etc. Check the interior for water spots, stains and active leaks.

2. Document Everything

Take pictures of anything that looks like it might be damaged to you and make notes. There is no such thing as over-documenting and all of this can come in handy when it’s time to file an insurance claim.

3. Tarp Your Roof

If you do have any large damage spots or leaks in your home, you can follow the same tips from the video here.

4. File an Insurance Claim

If you believe that you have significant roof damage, it’s time to file an insurance claim. Contact your local agent or insurance carrier to see the proper method for filing a claim to get the process started.

5. Call Stonebridge

If you’re not sure how extensive your roof damage is, call the trusted experts at Stonebridge. You can request our emergency roof repair service here. We will come to give you a full assessment of the damage and inspect your roof with no obligation. 904-262-6636.

You will no doubt have out of town storm chasers all over your neighborhood after a storm. Cheaper is rarely better. Read some tips here on choosing the right contractor. Stonebridge Roofing is a local, licensed and insured, certified roofing installer. Our roofs are backed with our 15 year labor warranty along with lifetime shingle warranties, based on shingles chosen. Stonebridge Roofing can also help with new replacement windows, vinyl siding, gutters, and painting as well. Let Stonebridge Roofing become your first choice for all things exterior. Request your free assessment today.

Roofing Contractor Checklist: Things to Look for When Choosing a Roofing Company

Apr 11, 2024

Roofing Contractor Checklist

Choosing the right roofing company is essential to making sure your home stays protected from the elements while also maintaining its aesthetic appeal. It's not just about getting the job done; it's about finding a partner who can deliver reliability, quality, and peace of mind. In your hunt for the perfect roofing contractor, here are five crucial factors to consider, presented through the lens of both positives and negatives. If you need Emergency Roof Repair now, contact us HERE

1. Experience and Expertise

Look For: A contractor with a solid track record and extensive experience. Stonebridge Roofing, for example, brings years of expertise to the table, ensuring that they can handle a wide range of roofing problems with ease. An experienced contractor can navigate the complexities of any project, providing solutions that are both effective and durable.

Beware Of: New or inexperienced contractors may offer lower prices, but they often lack the skills and knowledge necessary to deal with unexpected challenges. This can result in subpar work that might cost you more in the long run.

2. Licenses and Insurances

Look For: It's essential that your contractor is fully licensed and insured. This not only demonstrates their legitimacy but also protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage. Stonebridge Roofing maintains all necessary licenses and insurance, giving clients peace of mind knowing they're in responsible hands.

Beware Of: Contractors who can't provide proof of licensure or insurance. Hiring such contractors exposes you to unnecessary risks, including potential legal and financial liabilities.

3. Reputation and Reviews:

Look For: Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers. A reputable company like Stonebridge Roofing often has a portfolio of successful projects and glowing reviews, showcasing their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Beware Of: A lack of reviews or a pattern of negative feedback can be red flags. They suggest a company's inability to meet client expectations or a history of poor-quality work.

4. Price and Value:

Look For: Competitive pricing that reflects the quality of materials and workmanship. Stonebridge Roofing ensures that you get what you pay for, offering reasonable quotes that match the high level of service and outcomes they deliver.

Beware Of: Extremely low bids may be tempting but often indicate corners being cut, either in materials or labor. Conversely, exorbitant prices don't always guarantee superior quality. Balance is key.

5. Customer Service and Communication:

Look For: A contractor who listens to your needs, communicates clearly, and keeps you informed throughout the project. Stonebridge Roofing prides itself on its customer service, ensuring clients feel supported from start to finish.

Beware Of: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, unsatisfactory results, and frustration. Contractors who seem disinterested or are difficult to reach should be avoided.

Stonebridge Commitment

Choosing the right roofing contractor involves careful consideration of their experience, credentials, reputation, pricing, and customer service. Stonebridge Roofing exemplifies the positive aspects of what to look for in a roofing contractor, making them a premier choice for homeowners in North Florida seeking expertise in roof replacements and repairs. Remember, a good roofing contractor is not just a service provider but a partner in maintaining the safety and beauty of your home.

Hurricane Proof Your Roof

Jul 18, 2023

Preparing your roof for hurricane season is a multi-step process designed to ensure your roof as sturdy and secure as possible. With regular maintenance and attention to detail, you’ll be sure that your home and family will be protected. Here’s some things you’ll want to do:

1. **Get A Roof Inspection:** It’s always a good hire a local professional to inspect your roof for any potential damage or weak areas. If you’re comfortable doing it yourself, look for missing or loose shingles, rusted flashing, worn seals, and any other signs of damage. Don’t forget to check the underside of the roof from your attic for signs of leaks or water damage.

2. **Repairs:** Any signs of damage or wear should be repaired promptly. Loose or missing shingles should be replaced, as these can be easily torn off by high winds, creating a weak spot in your roof. If the flashing is rusted or damaged, it should also be replaced to prevent leaks.

3. **Trim Trees:** Trim back any tree branches that overhang your roof. In a hurricane, these branches can be torn off and thrown onto your roof, potentially causing severe damage.

4. **Gutter Maintenance:** Clean your gutters and make sure they’re securely attached. Blocked or loose gutters can overflow, causing water damage to your home, and can be torn off in high winds.

6. **Professional Check-up:** If you’re in a high-risk area, consider having a professional wind mitigation inspector check your home. They can identify potential weaknesses and recommend fixes to help your home withstand a hurricane.

7. **Insurance Check-up:** Make sure your home insurance policy covers hurricane damage, and understand the terms. Some policies have a separate hurricane deductible, and others may not cover flood damage.

8. **Prepare for Emergency Repairs:** Keep materials such as tarps, plywood, and nails on hand for emergency post-storm repairs.

Remember, the best time to prepare your roof for hurricane season is well in advance of any storms. A well-maintained and sturdy roof can greatly reduce the potential damage to your home during a hurricane.

Financing a New Roof: 3 Ways on How to Do It

Mar 2, 2023

Replacing your old roof with a new, more efficient one can be a huge investment. Then again, delaying it further when your home clearly needs a new one can lead to costly fixes. If you can’t pay for a new roof due to a lack of out-of-pocket funds, know that there are ways you can finance this major home improvement.

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7 Signs You Need A New Roof

Feb 11, 2023

Here in Jacksonville, roofs take a beating from salt, wind, UV radiation, and heat. Generally, roofs in northern Florida will last about 15-20 years, but any roof in the region should be inspected every year. Roof repairs should always be done by a local, professional roofing company who is licensed and insured. But how do you know when to call them? Depending on the style of roof, some will show wear better than others, so today we will suggest seven visual signs that your roof needs replacing.

Sign 1: Leaks and Stains
Visible stains on a ceiling or wall may appear to be an obvious roof problem. However, roof leaks can be tricky to locate because water can enter the attic, travel along framing like trusses, and drip somewhere unrelated to the leak. If you see a new stain along an exterior wall or ceiling you may need an emergency repair.

Crawling around in attics with no floor can lead to accidents and personal injury, so leave that task to the pros. Jacksonville roofers have experience working in hot Florida attics and can use that experience to find elusive roof leaks and their sources. Many Jacksonville roofers even wear special boots that allow them to safely walk across trusses and up steep roof angles.

Sign 2: The Roof is Old
It’s a good idea to keep maintenance records on your home like the age of your roof. Most asphalt shingle roofs will last between ten and twenty years, but if your records show it’s time for a replacement, get your roof inspected by a licensed and insured, Jacksonville roofing company. Roof repairs are critical to the health of your home because leaks can cause mold and mildew growth. Even if you see no visual problems yourself, let a pro perform a no-obligation inspection of your roof to prevent future damage.

Sign 3: Look For Debris In Your Gutters
It might seem counterintuitive to look for roof issues in your gutters, but doing so is a smart move. Most Jacksonville roofs are made from materials that wear over time, like fiberglass/asphalt shingles, tiles, and wooden shakes. As the roof wears, the material it sheds will usually collect in the gutters, as the material is too heavy to be washed away.

To perform your own inspection, look for what appears to be sand in the bottom of the gutter. Most of the debris will collect at the lowest point on the gutter, so usually the first place to look is near the downspout. If you cannot see the bottom of the gutter because the debris is blocking your view, a significant amount of the roof has eroded away. If you discover you need an emergency roof repair caused by a strong storm, get a professional inspection by a licensed and insured roofer.

Sign 4: Cracks or Gaps in Your Flashing
Jacksonville roofs can get some severe weather, so even a small crack around roof flashing (thin sheet metal) can allow precipitation to penetrate the roof. Even if the leak only occurs when the rain is blowing sideways, eventually the damage will accumulate. When it does, the roof underlayment and roof decking will begin to soften and rot.

Sign 5: Sags in the Roof
You may have seen older homes with roofs that appear to dip and sag. More often than not, the framing under these roofs has become water damaged, allowing the framing to bend under the weight of the roof. Sagging roofs can still be repaired and reroofed, but care should be taken to hire an experienced professional who is licensed and insured.

Professionals should determine which style of roof will function best in the situation. For example, an inexperienced roofer may be unaware that certain types of roofing require specific roof pitches to work as designed. Using the incorrect roof material on a sagging roof can actually cause more problems than it solves, so always consult a professional in these situations.

Sign 6: Moss and Mold On Your Roof
Moss on your roof indicates a moisture problem severe enough to cause rot. These plants require near constant moisture and limited sunlight, so if they are actively growing on your roof, the roof is never completely drying out. Roofs should be dry in a matter of hours after a rain shower, so if your roof is holding moisture, the moss and mold will be a likely indicator.

Sign 7: Small Visible Damage
Most roofing materials will degrade over time and leave debris in the gutters. A very common find are small bits of roofing material that have dry rotted and broken away. For asphalt shingles, these are often small corners of a shingle, or in the case of shakes, small splinters of wood as these roofing materials begin to degrade with age.

Get Help Today! Contact Stonebridge Roofing
If you are unaware of the age of your roof, but begin to see small pieces of debris at the base of your downspouts, you can assume your roof is approaching its lifespan. This is a perfect time to contact a reputable Jacksonville roofing company, like Stonebridge Roofing and request a roof health report from a local expert roofer. For $150, your roof health report will include an overview of any visible damage (with photos), repair recommendations and an assessment of the lifespan left on your current roof.

Stonebridge Roofing is a licensed and insured, certified roofing installer, so they are approved by the manufacturer to provide a warranty. Stonebridge Roofing can also help with new replacement windows, vinyl siding, gutters, and painting as well. Let Stonebridge Roofing become your first choice for all things exterior. Financing Options are available! Request your free quote today.

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