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Your choice of roofing tiles will shape how your home looks and functions for the next 20-30 years! You'll get different levels of protection against the weather. Your energy bills might increase or drop depending on what you pick. The right tiles can make your home look interesting in the neighborhood, too.
You have lots of great options these days. You'll find everything from old-school slate and clay tiles to newer options like composite and metal roofing. Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Some tiles might last practically forever but cost an arm and a leg. Others can be budget-friendly but need more maintenance down the road.
Are you ready to research your options and find which roofing tiles will work best for your situation? Let's do it!
Slate Roof Tiles
Natural slate tiles can change your home with their character, and they come straight from metamorphic rock. You'll see beautiful colors like black, gray, purple, and green because of the minerals inside each tile. The natural and rugged texture and personality of slate can give you a look that artificial materials just can't copy!
Your slate roof will probably outlast your house since tough slate can last for more than 100 years if you take care of it. These tough tiles laugh in the face of nasty weather - they barely soak up any water at all. Because they're fireproof, too, you'll have extra security if your home sits in an area where wildfires might pop up.
The price tag might make you think twice, though. Slate installation isn't cheap because you'll need experts who know their stuff. Plus, your house might need some structural improvements first since these tiles are heavy. That extra support work will add to your costs.
Slate looks right at home on houses and historic buildings. You'll see these tiles quite a bit in regions with extreme weather because they're basically indestructible. Plus, they'll make your property look great for decades to come.
Taking care of your slate roof isn't tough. But you can't just ignore it either. You should get someone to check it out twice yearly to fix any tiles that could be damaged or missing. Skip the pressure washer since it'll wreck your tiles - just follow gentler cleaning instead. Your gutters need regular cleaning, too, so water doesn't back up and cause problems.
Fixing slate can be tough because the tiles might break if someone steps on them wrong. You can replace individual damaged tiles but you'll want a professional for that job. Finding matching replacements can give you problems since every natural slate tile has its own look.
Your green conscience will love slate roofs because they're very eco-friendly. These natural stone tiles leave a smaller carbon footprint than other options. You can even recycle or reuse old slate tiles once they're finally taken down.
Clay Roof Tiles
Your clay tile roof will keep on protecting your house for more than 100 years when you install and maintain it properly! These natural tiles have remained popular since ancient times. They can manage tough weather like heavy rain, strong winds, and intense heat.
You'll feel confident about picking clay tiles because they're very eco-friendly. Because they're made from natural materials, you can recycle them when they eventually wear out. Your energy bills might drop, too, since clay tiles naturally keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They do this by reflecting sunlight and letting air flow underneath them.
Clay tiles come with a few challenges you should think about. Most homes need extra support because these tiles weigh more than other roofing materials. The average clay tile roof can add between 600 and 1500 pounds for every 100 square feet. You might need to strengthen your roof structure before installing them.
Just look at Europe's historic buildings that still have their original clay tile roofs after centuries of use! That's why you'll see clay tiles on Mediterranean-style homes in California too. These tiles perform their best in wildfire-prone areas because they won't catch fire.
Installing clay tiles isn't a DIY job - you'll need some experienced pros, and it won't be cheap. The work takes time and skill. Structural reinforcement alone might cost you anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000. You also need careful installation since the tiles can break if someone steps on them incorrectly. Still, homeowners say the long-term benefits outweigh these first costs.
Your clay tile roof proves its worth in locations with harsh weather. Salt air near the coast won't damage them, and they manage regular storms well. The sun won't fade their color or change their shape even after decades of exposure. And you'll never have to worry about rot or bug problems because they're made from natural materials.
Metal Roof Tiles
Metal roof tiles can give you lots of flexibility and durability for your home. You'll be able to choose from materials like steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Most people pick steel tiles because they're tough and won't break your budget!
If you live near the ocean, aluminum tiles are your best bet - they'll stand strong against salty air. You'll love how copper tiles look beautiful and shiny while naturally fighting off bacteria, too. Just remember they'll cost you quite a bit more than other options. Zinc tiles also make a statement - they develop this blue-gray layer as time goes by and will probably outlast your house.
Your contractors will thank you for picking metal tiles because they're lighter than traditional clay or concrete alternatives. The installation moves along way faster because workers aren't struggling with heavy materials. Sometimes, you can even pop these tiles right on top of your existing roof and skip the messy tear-off process.
Recently, you'll find metal roofing in practically every design and color under the sun. Want the classic look of clay or slate without the weight? No problem! You can pick from strong and bright colors or stick with natural earth. Some tiles even come with textures that look just like wood shakes.
Before you jump in, you should know a few things about metal tiles. Without insulation, rain might sound like a drum solo on your roof. The tiles themselves don't keep heat in well, either. You'll want attic insulation to keep your energy costs in check.
Your metal tiles will laugh in the face of extreme weather, though. They'll hold strong against hurricane-force winds and won't buckle under heavy snow. Most metal tiles also give you complete fireproof protection for extra security. They work well with sunlight instead of soaking up heat - that means lower cooling bills.
Getting these tiles installed the right way takes real expertise because metal moves around with temperature changes. A proper installation now means you won't have loose tiles or leaks later. And you'll pay more up front.
Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles can give you lots of durability and value without being too expensive. You can expect them to last between 50 and 70 years when you take care of them. Your home stays well protected against nasty weather - like strong winds and dangerous hail storms! The tiles keep the water out, too, and won't catch fire. You'll sleep better at night knowing your home is safe.
You'll love how affordable these concrete tiles are compared to other high-end roofing materials. The easy manufacturing keeps the price tag friendly for your wallet. When damage happens, swapping out individual tiles is quick and saves you money down the road. Since these tiles can last for decades, you won't need to think about a new roof anytime soon.
The design possibilities with concrete tiles seem endless! You can get the same beautiful look as expensive materials like clay and slate or wood shake. Manufacturers can match any color you dream up. From Mediterranean villas to modern farmhouses, concrete tiles look right at home on any architectural style.
The weight of concrete tiles can affect your home's structure. While they weigh more than basic asphalt shingles, they're actually lighter than clay or slate. Most newer houses can manage concrete tiles just fine. For older homes, though, you might need extra support with your roof structure. Getting a professional opinion before installation will save you problems later.
Modern architecture shows off what concrete tiles can do. On Mediterranean houses, curved concrete tiles in warm and inviting terracotta catch everyone's eye. Sleek modern homes look their best with flat concrete tiles in refined charcoal or tan. Traditional craftsman houses look their best with smooth concrete tiles that add soft texture.
These tiles perform their best when it comes to saving energy. Their high thermal mass acts like a natural temperature control. They soak up heat during sunny days and slowly release it at night. Your energy bills will thank you throughout the year. You're doing something useful for the planet since concrete tiles use natural materials and can be recycled later.
Composite Roof Tiles
You'll find that composite roof tiles are changing how modern homes look and feel. They're made from recycled materials like plastics, rubber, and fiberglass mixed together with strong resins. These tough materials come together to create tiles that last a long time. The finished product looks just like real slate or wood shakes. You might not even see the difference.
Your roof structure will thank you for picking composite tiles because they're lighter than traditional options. That means you won't have to worry about whether your roof can handle the weight. The installation process is actually very easy, too. Your roofer can get everything set up faster without needing training or extra time.
These tiles are great at standing up against harsh weather conditions. You can rest easy when you learn about how your roof can take on everything from nasty hailstorms to strong winds. Unlike natural materials that break down over time, composite tiles stay strong and sturdy. Your home gets extra protection since most of these tiles come with good fire resistance ratings.
Your choice to go with composite roofing helps the planet in a few ways that matter. Since manufacturers use recycled materials, you're helping to keep waste out of landfills. When it's finally time to replace your roof years down the road, you can recycle these tiles again. Homeowners also see lower energy bills because some types of composite tiles give you extra insulation.
The way you take care of your composite roof is fairly easy. You won't spend time dealing with annoying mold or mildew problems that plague other roofing materials. The color of your roof stays great year after year, too. Businesses are so confident about their products that you'll get awesome warranties for up to 50 years.
While the first price tag might feel higher compared to basic asphalt shingles, your wallet will thank you later. The long-term value can add up since these tiles last longer than other options. You'll save money on maintenance since these tiles basically take care of themselves.
Ceramic Roof Tiles
Ceramic roof tiles have stood the test of time for good reason. You'll get a great lifespan from these tiles because they can last well over 100 years. Your home also gets some interesting protection because ceramic tiles can manage whatever Mother Nature throws at them.
You'll sleep better at night when you learn about how ceramic tiles give you outstanding fire protection. The high-temperature kiln firing process makes your tiles naturally fireproof, too. Your roof stays dry and protected since the outer shell keeps water from seeping inside.
You could be impressed at how well ceramic tiles can manage your home's temperature. Your heating bills will probably drop in winter because the tiles trap warm air inside. They also block out excess heat. Rain and wind won't bother you much either since these tiles do a good job of muffling outside noise.
Looking after ceramic tiles is pretty easy. Your roof naturally fights off problems like algae and fungus growth. The tiles need very little cleaning compared to other materials, too. Nature lovers will like that your tiles are eco-friendly and don't have any harmful chemicals.
Yet ceramic tiles aren't perfect for every situation. Your house might need some extra support because these tiles pack some serious weight. Finding the right people to install them takes time since it needs skills. The tiles can snap or crack when you move them around or set them in place.
Your first costs will be higher than other roofing options. Professional installation can add even more to your total. Only experienced roofers should manage the job.
Protect The Roof Over Your Head
Each roofing option has its own set of pros and cons. You'll need to choose one that works best for you! Your local climate, house style, and personal preferences help you make the right call. Take some time to find out what features matter most to you before making any choice.
Homeowners know that going for the cheapest option usually backfires down the road. You'll actually save more money by investing in quality materials. These materials can stand up to weather and time. A well-built roof keeps your energy bills low and protects your house for decades. It's worth finding the balance between durability, cost, and appearance for your home.
Working with experienced pros sets you up for success with your roofing project. Colony Roofers stands ready to help with commercial and residential roofing from our locations across Georgia, Florida, and Texas! Your home deserves expert care and attention.
Don't leave your roof repair needs up to chance. Give us a call for a free inspection. We'll make sure your roof gets the professional treatment it needs. Our team brings years of experience and knowledge to every project. We'd love to show you the Colony Roofers difference.
