You can choose from many styles for tile roofs. Each style has its advantages and beauty. You can learn more about the benefits of tile roofs for homeowners.
These individual tiles, whether made of concrete, fired clay, or slate, are great for more than their looks. Learn about the advantages of these materials like the most popular palmetto roofing options, and then weigh them against key considerations to decide if your own home is a good candidate for an upgrade.
Tile Roofing Advantages
1. Aesthetic Appeal, Versatility
Concrete and clay tiles most often have natural earth tones, unglazed or sand-cast finishes, and a classic curved shape. But, they don’t just have to be the Mediterranean. They can be cast in many styles to suit any architecture.
Both clay and concrete tiles can come in a wide range of colors. They may also be available in unglazed or glazed finishes. Flat, interlocking and fluted tiles are the most popular shapes. They can be combined with a wide variety of home designs. Some tiles have a similar look to wood shakes. These can be used to roof Craftsman, rustic, and log homes.
Slate tiles are a unique, desirable look that mimics natural stone. They also have many other advantages over clay and concrete tiles such as their durability and longevity.
2. Durability
Concrete, clay, slate, and concrete roofs are impervious against fire and repel rot, insects, or other pests. The majority of tile roofing is capable of enduring extremes of heat or cold. It can be used in almost any climate. Additionally, clay roofs are highly resistant to the corrosion of salt air. Clay is an ideal choice for coastal areas near the ocean. Many roofing tiles are also resistant to high impact, which makes them a good choice for those areas where there is hail and strong winds.
Most tile roofs are designed for warm climates. However, they can be used in colder areas. If you are installing a clay- or concrete tile roof in a cold environment, make sure to ask for products that can withstand freezing temperatures.
The greatest threat to tile roofs is people. The tiles are not built to withstand heavy foot traffic and can be easily damaged by poor care. To avoid any damage to a tile roof’s exterior or gutters, hire an experienced professional.
3. Longevity
A roof made from concrete, clay, or slate might be the last one you need. Some clay or slate tiles will last up to 100 years. Concrete tile warranties are typically 50 years. Slate roofs are one of the most durable and long-lasting materials. They can last for 100 to 150 years.
4. Long-Term Savings
Tile roofs can be expensive in the beginning due to the cost of materials and labor. However, a skilled roofing contractor might charge more for experience working with high-end materials. However, over their long life span, concrete, clay, and slate tiles will offset their initial cost. Because of their high thermal mass, tiles are better at controlling the temperature inside your home. This can help reduce your heating and cooling costs. Because of their durability and longevity, clay, concrete, and slate roofs can last for decades without needing to be replaced. The materials can all be recycled easily and are eco-friendly.
