Tile roofs can last over 50 years with proper installation. This roofing option is made of concrete or clay, clay being a longer-lasting choice. But hurricanes, hail, and lack of maintenance can knock years off of the total lifespan of a tile roof.
What material is best for a tile roof?
The material used can affect both the price and the durability of the roof. Clay and concrete are the most common types of materials used for tile. Which one is best depends on what your needs are.
All types of tile are more durable than shingles. They’re generally more environmentally friendly and are often very resistant to weather.
- Concrete: Concrete tiles are heavier than clay and are more durable. The expected lifespan of concrete tiles is, on average, about 50 years.
- Clay: Clay tiles are a popular choice, especially in Florida. They’re more expensive than concrete tiles but are more durable and long-lasting. They are resistant to strong winds.
What factors affect the lifespan?
Tile roofs can last for an exceptionally long time if they’re taken care of properly. There are several factors that can affect how long they last, such as:
- Hurricane winds
- Hail
- Lack of ventilation
- Lack of maintenance
- Trees that sit over the roof
- Type of installation
- Type of valley metals
- Flashings
- Roof cement
- Underlayments
1. Maintenance
Tile roofs must be maintained to reach their full potential lifespan. Maintenance includes removing leaves and debris from all valleys, cleaning gutters annually, cutting down trees directly above all roof lines, and sealing any cracks in mortar/cement. It also involves replacing tiles as needed.
2. Weather
Extreme weather can damage any kind of roof, even the longest-lasting and most durable. This is made even more of an issue if there is a lack of ventilation. Florida’s hurricanes can damage the roof. The sun beating down on the tiles can also reduce their longevity.
3. Damage to the Roof
Damage to the roof can also impact its longevity if it’s not addressed and repaired.
4. What Can Damage a Tile Roof?
Damage to a roof can come from weather or impacts on the tiles. Trees or branches falling can damage tiles, as can someone walking on the roof.
What are the benefits of a tile roof?
Tile roofs provide a lot of advantages over other materials. They look nice and even though they’re expensive to install initially, they’re a good investment because of how long they can last.
1. Durability
Tile roofs are extremely durable. They can last 50 years or more if they’re cared for properly. Some may last even longer than that.
2. Resistance to Hurricane Damage
Tile roofs are commonly seen in Florida because of their resistance to wind and rain. While hurricanes can still cause damage to tile roofs, the repairs will be less than with other roofing materials.
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How can I maintain my tile roof?
Maintaining the roof properly is the best way to take advantage of its long lifespan.
1. Stay Off the Roof
Tile can be fragile. While tile is resistant to weather and wind, it isn’t resistant to direct pressure. A tile roof can be damaged by tree branches falling on it or by people walking on it. You have to step on two tiles at a time when walking on them and walking in the valleys is preferable. If someone must go on your roof to install something or to clean, carefully check the roof afterward to make sure no tiles were damaged.
2. Regular Inspections
Regular inspections will help ensure any damage to your roof is found and repaired before it becomes a bigger problem. This can minimize further damage and save you money by minimizing the repairs needed.
3. Hire a Professional
Because tile roofs need to be installed properly and shouldn’t be walked on, it’s best for the overall health of your roof to hire a professional. Professional roofers can install your roof and then help to maintain it as well as repair any damage.
How much does a tile roof cost?
Tile roofs can have a high price tag for the initial installation and up-front costs. But because they can last so long before needing to be replaced, you can actually save money in the long run by installing a tile roof. You can also save money on roof repairs because tile roofs are more resistant to weather.
1. Materials & Installation
Concrete tiles can cost on average between $4.00 to $9.00 per square foot. Removal and replacement of clay tiles can cost between $8.00 and $12.00/sq. ft. This includes the materials and the labor.
2. Savings
The real savings come in with the durability and longevity of the tile. You’ll have fewer repairs to makeover its lifetime from wind or water damage. You also may never have to replace the roof, since the tile can last 50 years or longer if properly cared for.