When you’re ready to start replacing your roof, there are lots of different roofing materials you can pick from. With all these materials come with various benefits, and that includes their longevity of it. Tile roof installation is a popular option in the US, so you’ll want to know why people choose them and how long they will last. Will they be able to stand up to the elements?
Why Choose Tile Roofing?
Firstly, let’s look at why people pick tile roofing for their homes. What makes it the right choice for them? There are several reasons why people use them for their homes when replacing their roofs:
Fire Resistance
One of the best things about tile roofs is that they’re one of the most fire-resistant materials. The materials used in making tiles aren’t flammable, so your roof will see little if any, damage should a fire break out in your home. That makes it a very safe option for your home.
Different Materials
A tile roof can be made of all kinds of materials. You’ll have seen clay and terracotta tiles, which give homes a unique look and are one of the most aesthetically pleasing options. You can get very similar looks with materials such as concrete or cement. Slate is also another good option, so you can pick from a range of different tiles.
Eco-Friendly Options
This is something you’ll want to pay attention to, especially if you’re trying to be more thoughtful about your home renovations. Of course, roofing is going to generate some waste and harmful emissions, but you can minimize that with roof tiling. That’s especially true if you use clay tiles, as they’re a naturally occurring resource that doesn’t create any harmful gases when they’re created.
Excellent Insulation
Insulation is something else that you should consider when installing a new roof. Tiled roofs offer excellent insulation, as they have heat retention properties and help maintain a consistent temperature in your home. You want to ensure that the roof is insulated correctly, as that ensures you don’t lose heated air in the winter or cooled air in the summer. It’s another way to be more eco-conscious, too.
Easy Maintenance
This is something that most homeowners will appreciate. A tiled roof is much easier to maintain than other roof types, so you’ll have less work. If you find a tile cracked or broken, it’s not very hard to fix it without disturbing the others around it.
How Long Does a Tile Roof Last?
These are all excellent reasons to have a tiled roof installed, but you’ll want to know how long that roof will last. After all, installing a roof is expensive, and you want to get your money’s worth. How long will it last compared to other roofing options? The good news is that a tiled roof is highly durable when well cared for. You can see them last for 50 years quite easily.
Of course, that will depend on how well you care for them. That compares well against other kinds of roofing materials out there. For example, an asphalt shingled roof will last for around 30 years when well cared for. When it comes to longevity, a tiled roof will stay around the same amount of time as a metal roof, so you can choose between the two, considering the look you want for your home.
Tiled Roof Drawbacks
While there are lots of benefits you can get with a tiled roof, there are, of course, some drawbacks as well. If you’re aware of these ahead of time, you’ll be able to make the right choice for your home.
Weight and Heaviness
One of the most significant issues with a tiled roof is that the tiles will be much heavier overall. The tiles can weigh between 70 and 80kg per square meter, so your roof structure needs to be able to support that. That’s something that a qualified roofer can advise you on, so make sure you ask to see what’s possible for your home.
Installation Complications
This is another crucial factor in your decision. Tiles are a little more challenging to install onto your roof, so it may take longer. Some tiles are designed to fit more easily, so you can look for them if you want to reduce installation times. If you’re hiring a qualified team to handle it, you’ll see that this shouldn’t be much of a problem.
Mold and Lichen Susceptibility
If your roof is shaded, you’ll see mold and lichen can start growing on it quickly. While you may be tempted to clean it off, removing it can degrade the tiles. You’ll have to consider your current roof and its location before you decide on a tiled roof.
Tile Fragileness
In most conditions, the tiles will stay in good condition and last for decades. However, there are conditions in which they can break easily. It’s quiet to break a tile underfoot if you’re up on the roof, making inspecting it more difficult. You’ll also see that the underlayment can wear out quicker than the tiles, so you’ll need to keep an eye on that and have it replaced when you need to. However, if you’re taking good care of your roof, you shouldn’t see many problems overall.
A tiled roof can be just what you’re looking for if you want a long-lasting roof. With a lifespan of around 50 years and being easy to care for, you can expect that roof to stand the test of time. Talk to your local roofing company today if that’s what you want for your home.