Tile roofing has many benefits to consider when evaluating roofing products: It is durable, attractive, energy-efficient, fire-resistant, and can even increase property values. While the upfront cost of installing a tile roof is sometimes more than that of other materials, many homeowners view the investment as worthwhile when considering the life expectancy of a tile roof vs asphalt shingles. Many asphalt roofs are replaced after ten years or less, while a properly installed high-quality tile roof should last 50 to 100 years or more.

Customers are occasionally concerned about the potential weight of tile roofing, however, in our experience, less than 10% of roofs require additional structural reinforcement to transition to clay or concrete roofing tile.

If you’re considering tile for your property, the guide below looks at two popular options—clay and concrete.

Clay 

If properly maintained, clay tile roofs can last over 100 years. The quality of the clay and the reputation of the manufacturer are extremely important in its expected lifespan. 

Clay tiles can vary significantly in weight, depending on the number of pieces per 'square' (100 square feet). Some clay tiles are under 600 lbs per square (6 lbs per square foot), others are over 2,000 lbs per square (20 lbs per square foot).

Proper maintenance is important for both clay and concrete tiles. Cracked or broken tiles should be replaced as soon as they are noticed. Build-up of debris should be removed at least once a year if the property is in an area with tree coverage.

Clay tile has a classical and attractive look that has been time-tested for centuries, making it a great choice for a durable and efficient roofing system.

Concrete 

Concrete tile is another excellent choice when considering roofing products. With an average life expectancy of 50 to 75 years, it still outperforms other roofing materials and is a cost-effective alternative to clay. It is important to note that the underlayment and flashings on a concrete tile roof can fail before the tile itself when not properly installed or maintained. Frequently, if a concrete tile roof requires replacement, it is not due to a failure of the tiles themselves, but rather the failure of underlying components of the roofing system.

If issues associated with improper installation techniques or deterioration of underlayment are noted, a 'restoration' is often an option worth considering. In this process, all tiles are removed from the roof and set aside for later reinstallation. All underlayment and flashings are removed and replaced with modern products, and the pre-existing tile is reinstalled.

To have a new clay or concrete roof installed, repaired, assessed or restored, contact the professionals at Formula Roofing and Remodeling in Denver, CO. These experienced residential and commercial roofing contractors are well-versed in tile roofing as well as other options. They can also perform repairs to reduce the likelihood of water intrusion in your home. Call (303) 600-8696 for an estimate or visit them online for more information about the services they offer.