Tile Roofing

Tile Roof Materials

While asphalt shingles are popular in the US, tile is one of the most popular roofing materials in the world. What these tiles are made from vary depending on the homeowner’s design preference and the internal structure of the home.

Clay

Many homes in the US that borrow from Spanish architecture tend to use clay or terra cotta tiles to carry those influences to the roof. These tiles hang in overlapping, parallel rows to keep water out of the home. Clay or terra cotta tiles are typically organish in color due to their mineral content.

Slate

Slate tiles are some of the highest quality, most durable, longest lasting roofing materials on the market. Made from natural stone, slate tiles are notoriously difficult to install but can last up to 150 years or more on a home. Beautiful in appearance, slate tiles require little maintenance but are prone to breakage if they are walked on or hit by debris in a storm.

Concrete

Concrete tiles can be shaped into any size and dyed to match any color. Durable and maintenance free, concrete tiles are easier to install than slate and are typically more durable than clay or terra cotta tiles. However, not every roof structure is designed to handle the weight of a concrete roof.

Tile Roofing Maintenance

In most cases, tile roofs can last up to 100 years or more if they are properly installed and maintained. Fortunately, in most cases your tile roof only needs an annual inspection to keep it in working order. Damaged sections or cracked or chipped tiles should be replaced immediately to protect the internal structure of your roof. Do not pressure wash your roof as the pressure from the water can break or crack tiles. The water from your pressure washer can also seep into the felt underneath the tiles and cause water damage to the wood beneath. If your tile appears dull, contact Titan Construction to have your tile sealed with water barrier that can extend the life of your roof.

Pros and Cons Tile Roofing

Deciding which roof is right for your home or commercial building is often a daunting task. Fortunately, there are some pros and cons to a tile roof that may make the decision easier.

Pros

• Tile roofs are extremely durable. When properly maintained, they can last for up to 100 years or more.
• Whether you use clay, concrete or slate, your tile roof can save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year because they do not aborb heat the way asphalt shingles do.
• Tile roofs are known for their beauty. Regardless of the type of tile you choose, tile roofs are impressive in their color, scope and style.

Cons

• Tile roofs are expensive to install and repair. Because the tile tends to become brittle over time, walking on this type of roof is difficult and can lead to further damage. Therefore, it is important to have a roofing contractor who has experience with tiled roofs do all of your roofing repair.
• Speaking of brittle, tile roofs do not do well when hit by falling tree limbs or debris-filled storms.
• Tile roofs are heavy. It is simply not possible to put a heavy tile roof on certain structures. Curious if your home can withstand the weight of a tile roof? Contact Titan Construction for a free estimate.