The Roofing Resource Channel provides a guide to tile roofing that covers types, lifespan, costs, and benefits. Discover the differences between clay and concrete tiles and the various design options available.
Tile Roofing: What You Need to Know Before Choosing It
Are you exploring tile as a possibility for your upcoming roofing project?
In this guide, we'll cover what tile roofs are made of, the types available, how long they last, what they cost, and where they perform best, so you can decide if tile is right for you.
What Makes Up a Tile Roof?
A tile roof is typically made from clay or concrete tiles installed over a waterproof underlayment. Clay tiles are generally lighter than concrete, but both are heavier than most other roofing materials.
Because of this, it's important to ensure your home's structure can support the added weight before choosing tile. Clay and concrete tiles weigh roughly 600 to 1,200 pounds per square (100 square feet), compared with 200 to 400 pounds for asphalt shingles. A home that did not originally have tile usually needs a structural assessment, and sometimes framing reinforcement, before installation.
Clay vs. Concrete Tile
| Clay Tile | Concrete Tile |
|---|
Weight | Generally lighter than concrete | Heavier |
Cost | Higher end of the tile price range | Lower end of the tile price range |
Hail | Brittle under large impacts | Class 4 hail-rated products available |
Types of Tile Roofs
Both clay and concrete tiles come in a variety of styles and designs. The differences are mostly aesthetic and do not significantly impact performance. Common tile styles include:
Spanish / Mission
French
Barrel
How Long Do Tile Roofs Last?
Tile roofs typically last between 30 and 50 years. However, the lifespan heavily depends on the quality of the underlayment, which is the primary waterproofing layer, not the tiles themselves. If low-quality underlayment is used, it may need replacement long before the tiles wear out.
The tiles themselves can last 50 years or more. Underlayment is typically rated for 20 to 30 years, and replacing it means removing and resetting the tiles, a job that can cost nearly as much as a new asphalt shingle roof. Ask what underlayment a contractor is quoting before you compare tile bids.
How Much Does a Tile Roof Cost?
Tile roofs are a premium option. The Roofing Resource Channel puts a typical clay or concrete tile roof at around $22 per square foot. Across the market, tile generally runs $12 to $25 per square foot installed, with concrete at the low end and clay at the high end, or roughly $24,000 to $50,000 for a 2,000-square-foot roof.
The final cost will vary based on:
Roof pitch
Roof complexity
Type of tile selected
Prices also run higher in expensive labor markets; our Los Angeles roofing prices guide shows tile costs in one of the most common tile markets in the country.
Where Tile Performs Best
Tile is most common in the Southwest and Florida for good reason. It handles intense sun without degrading, provides thermal mass that moderates attic temperatures, and withstands high winds when properly fastened.
It has limits, too. Homes in earthquake zones need an engineering review before tile is installed. In hail-prone regions, concrete tile with a Class 4 hail rating is the right specification, and even then large hail can crack individual tiles that must be replaced one by one.
Living With a Tile Roof
Tiles are brittle and can break underfoot, so roof work, from gutter repairs to solar panel installation, takes more care and costs more than on a shingle roof. Clay and concrete tiles are also porous; in freeze-thaw climates, water that soaks into a tile can expand when it freezes and crack it.
A Houston roofer interviewed in our synthetic roofing cost guide says tile repairs his company handles run 3,000 to 25,000 dollars, which is why some homeowners choose a lightweight synthetic tile instead.
Final Thoughts
Tile roofing offers long lifespan and strong curb appeal, but it's important to consider structural support and cost before choosing it. With the right installation and materials, tile can be a durable, long-term roofing solution.
If you are still comparing materials, see metal roofing vs. shingles and our guide to choosing asphalt shingles.
The roofing projects hub covers the rest of the roofing decision.
When you are ready to get estimates from licensed contractors in your area, contact Home Upgrade Pros or call: (702) 620-6514 to connect with professionals who offer free no-obligation assessments.
FAQ: Tile Roofing
