Tile roofing has been a durable, long-lasting solution for centuries. Today, there are many options for tile roofing, including clay, concrete, metal, composite, and more. In Arizona, tile is a staple of building architecture, especially in the desert regions of Phoenix and Tucson. It handles sunlight well and is extremely durable in the heat.
ABOUT TILE ROOFING
The primary types of tile we install are clay and concrete, with occasional metal tile projects. Clay tiles are formed from natural clay and hardened to create a durable roofing product. Their color is true throughout the tile, so even with prolonged sun exposure, they hold color very well. Think of the typical orange-ish tile you commonly see in the Phoenix metro area.
Concrete tile costs a bit less and is formed from solid concrete. The concrete is treated to achieve a specific color, or painted and then clear-coated to create a unique color pattern. These colors will eventually fade with sun exposure, and you may want to replace them due to aesthetics. However, this usually takes decades.
One important consideration with clay and concrete tile roofing systems is that the trusses, framing, and roof decking should be rated to support the weight.
THE TILE ROOFING SYSTEM
Tile must be installed over a solid deck. It isn’t considered a completely watertight system, so the underlayment is just as important as the tile application. At M&M Roofing, we prefer long-term products like Boral TileSeal or Platinum HT to ensure your underlayment lasts for decades. We recently inspected a tile roof we installed in 1999 in Prescott, and the underlayment was still in sound, pliable condition. Typically, underlayment should be replaced every 25-50 years, depending on the quality of the material used.
Additionally, the flashings around chimneys, roof-to-wall connections, and valleys must be done properly to facilitate water drainage off the roof. Once the underlayment is installed, specially treated batten boards are nailed in rows on the roof for the tile to hook over and be nailed down to. These battens must be treated to withstand the elements. Finally, the tile is installed over the batten boards for the finished look.
Once the underlayment is installed, specially treated batten boards are nailed in rows on the roof for the tile to hook over and be nailed down to. It is important these are treated so they withstand the elements.
On top of that, the tile is finally installed over the batten boards for the final look.
LIFESPAN AND WARRANTIES
A clay tile roof can last 50 or more years, with the only consideration being replacing the underlayment at some point. Concrete tile can last just as long but will weather and fade over time.
ABOUT M&M ROOFING
M&M Roofing has been installing tile roofing systems across Arizona since 1984. We service the entire state, including Tucson, the Phoenix metro (Queen Creek, Gilbert, Chandler, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear, Avondale, Peoria, and outlying areas), Prescott, Flagstaff, Kingman, and everywhere in between. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
While tile roofs offer numerous benefits, there are some disadvantages to consider:
- Weight: Tile roofs are heavy, and the roof structure must be able to support this additional weight, which may require extra reinforcement.
- Cost: Tile roofs can be more expensive upfront compared to other roofing materials.
- Installation: Proper installation requires skilled labor, which can also add to the cost.
- Fragility: Although durable, tile can be brittle and may crack if walked on or if hit by heavy objects.
Maintenance: Repairing a tile roof can be more complex and costly compared to other roofing materials.
Whether a tile roof is better than shingles depends on various factors:
- Durability: Tile roofs generally last longer than shingle roofs, often up to 50 years or more.
- Aesthetics: Tiles provide a distinctive, often more upscale look compared to shingles.
- Cost: Tile roofs are more expensive to install but may have lower long-term costs due to their longevity.
- Maintenance: Shingle roofs are easier and less costly to repair.
- Weight: Shingles are lighter and do not require the structural reinforcement that tiles do.
Yes, tiles are an excellent option for roofing. They offer several benefits:
- Longevity: Tile roofs can last 50 years or more.
- Durability: They are resistant to weather, fire, and pests.
- Aesthetics: Tile roofs come in various styles and colors, enhancing the look of a home.
- Energy Efficiency: Tiles can improve energy efficiency by providing better insulation and reflecting heat away from the home.
Yes, tile roofing is generally more expensive than shingles. Here are the key differences:
- Material Costs: Tiles cost more per square foot than shingles.
- Installation Costs: Tile installation requires specialized labor, adding to the overall cost.
- Structural Requirements: The additional weight of tiles may require structural reinforcement, further increasing costs.
- Longevity: While more expensive upfront, tile roofs can offer better value over time due to their durability and longevity.