If you’re interested in a beautiful and practical tile roof, you have a lot of different options. These roofs are available in multiple materials and styles, and each one has its own pros and cons. To find the perfect type of tile roof for your needs, here’s what you need to know.
Clay Roof Tiles
If you’ve ever admired the beautiful tiles on Spanish-style homes, you’ll probably like clay tiles. These tiles are typically reddish-orange and have a rounded, overlapping shape, which is why they are sometimes called barrel tiles. Clay is a very versatile material, so you can find clay roof tiles that are flat and can be any number of colors. In addition to the stunning look of clay tiles, this roof is also popular because it can withstand UV exposure and helps to insulate your home. However, clay comes with some potential downsides like being tricky to replace and being too heavy for some types of roofs. It can crack when walked on, so performing repairs may be hard.
Composite Tiles
Made of recycled plastic and other synthetics, composite tiles are a modern invention that provides the best of both worlds. They can easily mimic the look of clay or concrete tiles. You can find them in shapes like interlocking curved tiles or overlapping flat tiles. However, they’re a lightweight material that won’t require a reinforced support structure. Composite tiles aren’t quite as durable or long-lasting as other types of tile, but they’re more affordable and easier to work with.
Slate Roof Tiles
Slate is a type of natural stone that’s been a favorite roof tile material for centuries. Slate tile roofs usually have flat, square tiles in shades of gray or brown. This type of roof is popular for historic buildings, but it can work well with many other home designs. The natural stone provides a lot of beautiful color gradations, and it’s fire-resistant too. Slate is low-maintenance and can last for up to 200 years. Just keep in mind that it’s a little pricey to install, and some homes will need extra support to bear the weight of this heavier roof tile. Like clay, slate tiles may occasionally crack if someone stands on your roof.
Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles often look similar to clay ones. They’re made from forming a liquid, stone-like material into interlocking tiles for your roof. This material is extremely versatile, so manufacturers often use concrete to mimic the look of slate or wood shakes. Concrete tiles are durable and insulating. Compared to clay, they are more resistant to cold. However, concrete is one of the heaviest roofing materials, so you’ll need a reinforced support structure for these tiles. Concrete is also more likely to become stained or mildewed when it is exposed to moisture.
Cedar Shake Roof Tiles
These roofs are often mistaken for shingles, but their installation process is more like that of a tile roof. Cedar shake roofs use thick slabs of durable cedar wood that overlap to create a beautiful, natural roof. Cedar shake roofs are a popular option for older homes, and they’re easy to install and maintain. However, they can be pricier than options like metal roof tiles. Some people also find the aromatic nature of freshly cut cedar to be a major plus.
Metal Roof Tiles
Metal roof tiles are pieces of metal that can be shaped to look like barrel tiles or other popular roof tile designs. These tiles are very lightweight and easy to work with. Not only can you install them without needing extra support, but you also don’t have to worry about them cracking during the installation process. However, metal isn’t very insulating. Especially when it rains, your roof tiles can be quite noisy. Another potential downside of metal is that it can dent if you walk on the roof or experience a hailstorm.
If you’re interested in a tile roof, Clark's Gables Roofing is happy to help you explore your options. We can explain the different types of tiles and recommend the best style for your home. Our roofing team also helps Roseville residents with a variety of other roof installations and repairs. To learn more about services from Clark's Gables Roofing, contact our team today.
