Throughout Tampa you can find homes in all price ranges that have some sort of tile roofing. Tile is a great solution for any homeowner looking for a roof replacement. Not only are there many brands to choose from but if you’re researching which tile is the right one for your roof, you’ve probably learned that there are two main categories of roofing tiles; clay and concrete.
Clay Roofing Tiles
Originally all tile roofs were made from clay. The process involved baking clay in a mold, most often in the mission style or “S” shape. Some manufactures today add enamel to the finishing process to influence the color. Clay tiles offer the benefits of being water resistant, natural, good insulators, and can last over 100 years when properly maintained.
There are a few drawbacks. Although our area doesn’t often have freeze and thaw cycles, clay tiles are more likely to crack or shatter when we do. They are also heavy, which may mean your current roofing system would require reinforcing prior to choosing a clay tile.
Concrete Roofing Tiles
Concrete tile roofs have increased in popularity quickly throughout the country. They are made like all concrete, using a mixture of sand, water, and cement. Colors are added to the mixture and the finishing process is a heat and pressure treatment. Some of their benefits are the same as clay but here are a few other reasons many homeowners are choosing concrete tile for their roof replacement needs:
- Color and style – Because these are manufactured there are seemingly limitless style and color options available.
- Strength and wind resistance – No matter what style you choose there are few roofing options that compare in strength to concrete tiles.
- Quiet – If you live near Tampa or St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airports, you may want to consider these tiles. Due to their density, they provide a level of sound insulation unlike other roofing materials.
- Cost – Concrete tiles cost less than their clay tile counterparts.
The two biggest drawbacks to choosing concrete tiles are that they are the heaviest of all roofing materials and because the color is artificially created, they do fade over time.
If you are looking for an expert tile roofer, call Suncoast Roofing Solutions at 813-283-2544 and we’ll be happy to help you choose the best material and style for your home’s roof replacement.
