An Overview Of Tile Roofing Materials & Costs

An Overview Of Tile Roofing Materials & Costs

Perhaps you’re ready for a new roof and to replace your old roofing materials or you’re looking at new construction. You’re considering tile roofing as an option, and want an idea about the tile roofing options available to you and the tile roof cost.

There are several factors that go into determining the tile roof cost including the type of tile materials (concrete tiles, clay roof tiles, solar roof tiles, terracotta tiles, slate tiles, French tiles, Spanish tiles, and others) used, the tile roof installation cost, labor costs, and price per square foot.

Tile Roofing Options

Tile roofing is principally designed to protect your roof and keep water out of the home. A tile roof differs from traditional asphalt shingle roofs in both material composition and appearance. Tile roofs are a great way to customize a home, but they do vary in price, durability, weight, and appearance. Here are several options when it comes to tile roofing and their advantages.

Slate Tile Roof

A natural stone, a slate tile roof delivers a distinct and lovely appearance. Slate has some very dramatic color variations that can only be produced by time and Mother Nature. Slate is also a fire-resistant roofing material that is both durable and long-lasting. It could be one of the most elegant roofing materials available for tile roofs.

Please note, however, slate is extremely heavy so the structure needs reinforcement to support the extra weight. In addition, a slate tile roof can be costly to install and difficult to handle which can add to the possibility of repairs.

Metal Tile Roof

Copper, aluminum, zinc, and steel are the most common materials used in metal roof tiles. Of these, steel and aluminum are the most common roofing materials. Metal tiles come in a variety of patterns and shapes to mimic products such as Spanish tiles, slate tiles, wood shake tiles, and also regular shingle patterns. A metal tile roof has grown in popularity due to its light weight and ease of installation.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are available in a variety of colors and are sealed to prevent water absorption. Clay tiles tend to be extremely heavy, prone to breaking if not handled carefully, and necessitate the services of experienced roof installers. A clay tile roof as with other roofing materials will require significant reinforcement to support the extra weight of the clay.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete roofing tiles are made, as the name indicates, from concrete. These roofing tiles are one of the least expensive roof tile options on the market. Concrete tiles are very attractive and can be made to look like wood shakes, clay tiles, or slate tiles. A concrete tile roof is very heavy so the structure must be reinforced to support the weight. It’s also important that the roofing contractor is familiar with the tools and procedures required to install concrete roof tiles properly.

Composite Tile Roof

Composite roof tiles are made from a combination of natural and man-made materials. They can easily replicate the appearance of any tile roofing product while also offering custom color mixes for most patterns. They are lighter, have long warranties, and should be installed by a reputable, experienced roofing contractor.

Solar Tile Roof

Solar tiles replace traditional roofing materials with electricity-generating roof tiles that connect to a battery assembly inside your home and draw power from the sun. A solar roof is energy efficient and can significantly reduce your electric bill. Solar roof tiles are expensive roofing materials, and require specialized installation, maintenance, and repair. You, may, however, be eligible for a federal tax credit with a solar tile roof.

Synthetic Spanish-Style Tiles

Synthetic Spanish-style tile roofs are reminiscent of the Mediterranean look of villas abroad, but you don’t have the added expense of reinforcing your entire roof. Synthetic tiles are recyclable, fire-resistant, and come in virtually infinite color combinations. What’s more, they don’t require the maintenance that clay roof tiles do.

Synthetic Slate Roof Tiles

Synthetic or composite slate roof tiles have the appearance of real slate roof tiles without the weight and maintenance of having to replace broken tiles. They can be customized in a wide range of colors. They are made of an environmentally friendly composite material, energy efficient, and lightweight.

Synthetic Cedar Tile Roofs

These shingles are lightweight and simple to install, mimic the look of a cedar split shake roof without the drawbacks. Synthetic cedar tiles can be treated for Class A or Class C fire rating and a Class 4 impact rating.

The Cost of a Tile Roof

The cost of tile roofs is typically more expensive than asphalt roofs. But the initial cost of the new tile roof or roof replacement could save you money in the long run because of the long lifespan of tile roofing. When determining the cost of a tile roof, look at the cost per square foot for materials, which will depend on the type of roofing materials you buy.

For example, terracotta tiles cost more than concrete tiles. Adding color to the tiles will also add to the per-square foot cost. The square-foot cost also includes labor costs for the tile roof installed.

There is also the cost of replacing an underlayment which is commonly part of the tile installation process, even if the existing one is in good shape. The amount you pay depends on the type required for your roof slope. Experienced roofers will determine if you need one or two layers.

Contact A Reputable, Experienced Roofing Contractor for Tile Roofs

Be sure to work with a professional roofing contracting company to ensure you are making the right decision to install a tile roof. Roof Worx will discuss with you the various roofing tiles available, the tile roof cost — from material cost to installing tiles and labor costs — whether it’s for an existing roof or new construction.

As we discussed, there are many options available including concrete tiles, clay tiles, solar tiles, and others for your roofing project. We are local contractors serving the Denver and surrounding communities and are available to provide you with the total cost to replace your old roof.

Call family-owned Roof Worx today, your Denver roofing local contractor, at (303) 353-1825 to schedule a FREE inspection and cost estimate for your roof.