Roof Replacement in Sarasota and Manatee Counties: What Homeowners Should Know

If you’re living in Sarasota or Manatee County and facing the prospect of a full roof replacement, you're not alone. Whether it’s age, storm damage, or ongoing leaks that brought you here, one thing is clear: replacing your roof is a significant investment—and one you want done right. Florida’s climate is tough on roofing systems, and in coastal regions like ours, the demands are even higher. That’s why it’s critical to work with local experts who understand not just the roofing materials, but the codes, wind zones, and everyday realities of life along the Gulf Coast.

At Pelican Roofing, we specialize exclusively in tile roofing built to stand up to Florida’s extreme weather. This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about the roof replacement process—from recognizing when it’s time to replace, to choosing the right features, and understanding what to expect throughout the project.

There are a few clear signs that indicate your roof is reaching the end of its useful life. If your tile roof is approaching or has surpassed 25 to 30 years, it’s time for an inspection to assess the condition of the underlayment, ridge mortar, and overall system integrity. Age alone doesn’t always mean failure, but it’s a major factor—especially in Florida’s high-heat, high-humidity climate.

If you’ve experienced leaks during storms, noticed missing or shifting tiles, or seen sagging in roof lines or flashing pulling away from walls, those are red flags. You might also see your energy bills creeping up due to poor attic ventilation caused by roofing failures. And of course, if an insurance company has flagged your roof as “uninsurable” or “non-compliant,” that’s a sure sign that replacement is in order. Sometimes, the signs are subtle, and a professional evaluation is the only way to know for certain.

Replacing your roof isn’t just a matter of laying down new tile—it’s a carefully coordinated process designed to protect your home from the elements, now and for decades to come. It all begins with a thorough on-site assessment and consultation. We examine your roof’s current condition, measure every slope and angle, and document any issues that need addressing—like deteriorated underlayment, damaged flashing, or failing mortar.

Once we’ve finalized the scope of work and obtained the necessary permits, your project is scheduled. On installation day, we begin with a complete tear-off of your old roofing system. This includes removing all existing tile, underlayment, fasteners, and accessories down to the decking. The decking is then inspected for structural soundness—any soft or rotted areas are replaced or reinforced.

Next, a high-performance, Florida-rated underlayment is installed. This synthetic or self-adhered layer acts as your primary moisture barrier, providing watertight protection even beneath the tiles. Flashing is then installed at all critical points: valleys, chimneys, skylights, and roof penetrations. These components are essential to ensuring long-term leak protection.

After the foundational elements are in place, we begin laying your new tile system. Depending on your roof design and tile selection, this may involve nails, clips, foam adhesive, or a combination—each method designed for optimal wind resistance and durability. Finally, ridge caps are sealed with mortar and weatherproofed to lock down the most vulnerable parts of your roof.

The entire process typically takes several days to complete, depending on roof size, complexity, and weather. Our crew works quickly but carefully, respecting your property and cleaning up each day. By the time we finish, your roof is not just replaced—it’s upgraded.

Yes, and these documents are important. Once your roof is completed, you’ll receive a full project summary that includes material specifications, warranty information, and documentation required by insurance and building departments. This includes wind mitigation inspection reports, which can help reduce your homeowner’s insurance premiums when submitted properly.



You’ll also receive photo documentation of your installation, before-and-after images, and a maintenance checklist to help protect your investment going forward. At Pelican Roofing, we pride ourselves on transparency and clear communication—everything is documented, explained, and backed by our workmanship warranty.

Absolutely. A roof replacement is a great time to upgrade or add features that improve the performance and comfort of your home. Many homeowners choose to enhance attic ventilation by installing ridge vents, upgrading soffit vents, or incorporating solar-powered fans. These additions help reduce attic temperatures and prevent moisture buildup—especially valuable in our humid coastal climate.



Other options include upgrading flashing materials, choosing a more reflective tile finish to improve energy efficiency, or switching to a different tile profile to match a remodel or new exterior style. You can also adjust drainage patterns by adding or repositioning gutters and downspouts. A thoughtful design now means fewer issues later—and we’re here to walk you through the best options for your home’s structure and style.

It’s a big project, and you’ll notice it—but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Most homeowners remain in their homes during the process, though it’s helpful to know what to expect. There will be noise, especially during the tear-off and tile-cutting stages. You’ll want to secure fragile items on walls or shelves that could shift from vibration.

We recommend parking vehicles away from the driveway and covering outdoor furniture or landscaping near the work zone. Inside your home, pets may be uncomfortable with the noise, so consider arranging a quieter space for them if possible. Our team maintains daily clean-up routines to reduce dust and debris, and we use magnetic rollers to catch stray nails or fasteners around the property.

We’re also happy to coordinate with you on access times and keep you informed throughout the project—so you always know what’s happening, what’s next, and who to call with questions.



Living on or near Florida’s Gulf Coast brings its own set of roofing requirements—and opportunities. In Sarasota and Manatee Counties, your roof must meet stringent wind uplift codes, especially in high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ). This means installation methods, tile fasteners, and underlayment systems must be engineered to perform in storm conditions.

Our local permitting offices—whether it’s in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, or Longboat Key—require documented compliance and approved materials. Having a licensed local contractor who knows how to navigate inspections, submit permits, and communicate with municipal officials is crucial. At Pelican Roofing, we’ve replaced hundreds of roofs in this area and work closely with all local jurisdictions to ensure smooth, timely approvals and inspections.

Plus, because we work exclusively with tile roofing systems, we can recommend materials and layouts that not only meet code—but look beautiful in Florida’s architectural landscape. From coastal Mediterranean styles to modern flat tile options, we know what performs and what lasts.

If you’re in Sarasota or Manatee County and know it’s time for a new roof, let’s make the process straightforward. At Pelican Roofing, we combine local expertise with true craftsmanship, offering Florida-tested tile roofing systems built for longevity and beauty. Our team will walk you through every phase—from inspection and tear-off to final inspection and cleanup—with care, communication, and total confidence.

Reach out today to schedule your inspection or consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, show you what your roof needs, and deliver a finished product that protects your home for decades to come.

Call us today at 941.914.4088 or request a free estimate to get the right roofing solution for your Florida home.