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Tile Roofing Articles
Pros and Cons of Tile Roofing
Written By Bob Formisano
Tiled roofs are beautiful and durable. They are also expensive and heavy but that is just the nature of a building material that will last upwards of 100 years. Tile roofing is usually made from Concrete Roofing Tile or Clay Roofing Tile and can come in shapes such as curved, flat / interlocking or fluted.
Tile roofing is a great choice for roofs that experience hot weather or exposure to salt air.
You will see tiled roofs most often in arid areas such as the southwest, and coastal areas like southern Florida or California. If you’re considering tile roofing for your home, be aware that these roofing systems are heavy and can break under certain conditions.
Just as there are pros and cons of shingle roofing, there are some pros and cons of tile roofing material:
Pros of Tile Roofing
There are many advantages to installing tile roofing regardless of which material you choose. Some of these advantages include:
Long-lasting
A tile roof can last over 100 years, especially when installed in the right climate. Clay and concrete tile roofs have been known to withstand hail, high winds and even fires. Once you install tile, you will never have to install another type of roofing again. Just in case, manufacturers will offer a 50-year warranty.
Plenty of choices
Clay, concrete and slate tiles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, so your home will match the roofing.
They give it a distinct Spanish or Southwestern look, depending on what you’re going for. These tiles have been known to match home styles like contemporary, European, colonial or historical. You can find them looking flat, round, in the style of wood shake roofing, or even as if they came from centuries-old homes.
More advantages to tile roofing include:
Impervious to fire damage
Resistant to physical impact damage
Can resist any kind of environmental, rot or insect damage
Withstands rain, snow or freezing/thawing weather without any damage
Environmentally friendly and can be recycled
Regulates the indoor temperature of your home because of the tile's thermal mass
Requires virtually no maintenance
Cons of Tile Roofing
There are some disadvantages to installing tile roofing. For those who are budget-conscious the initial cost is one factor to consider. A clay tile roof system can cost two to three times the cost of an asphalt roofing system. A clay tile roof can cost between $675 to $1400 per square (100 SF of roof area). Concrete tile roofs are more economical and cost $400 to $450 per square.
Installation
Installing tile roofing absolutely requires professional roofing contractors like you will find at HomeAdvisor. The tiles will need to be measured, laid in a specific pattern and checked so that no moisture gets through.
This is not a DIY project.
They’re Heavy
Weight is another factor. Your roof structure must be able to handle the weight of a tile roof which can weigh about 850 pounds per square for clay tile and 950 pounds per square for concrete tile. An asphalt roof by comparison weighs around 225 to 325 pounds per square.
If you’re reroofing and replacing shingle roofing with tiles, you’ll need to hire an engineer in addition to a roofing pro to figure out where the structural reinforcement goes. You’ll be spending additional funds on the reinforcements to handle the weight of the tiles.
Other disadvantages of tile roofing are:
Material is fragile and can break during storms or inspections
Not usable for roof pitches below 4:12
Takes a longer time to install than asphalt roofing. Be ready for additional time and labor costs.
Full article can be found on www.thespruce.com
4 Points to Consider with Clay Tile Roofing
Clay tile roofs can last 75 years are more – and they offer a multitude of benefits
Written by: Niklas W. Vigener and Nicholas A. Piteo
We recently consulted on a gem of historic architecture - a 1920s medical center in North Central Pennsylvania. It was an optimistic time, and the original donor mandated that "the structure last 300 years." His architects used the most time-proven materials money could buy. Today, the building - a city block's worth of granite, exquisitely decorated terra cotta, and bronze windows - does not look much the worse for wear. Its roof is covered with clay tiles, one of the oldest and most durable building materials.
Of course, such a timeframe far exceeds what reasonable designers will promise, but many institutions still expect their buildings to last for generations. Clay tile roofs, which can last 75 years or more, are frequently used on monumental buildings. On the downside, such roofs represent a significant initial investment that can be quickly destroyed by faulty design, workmanship, or materials. Here are some key requirements for long-lasting clay tile roofs.
Material. Not all clay tiles are created equal, and we investigated many roofs that were ruined by frost damage shortly after installation. As a general rule, the tiles must have a track record of successful performance in the climate where they will be installed (clay tiles that look great in Los Angeles may fall apart after 1 year in Michigan). In addition to reviewing actual performance, prudent designers will gauge material performance with laboratory tests.
Underlayment. Clay tiles are "water-shedding systems," which means that some water is expected to find its way under the tiles (windblown rain, for example) and must be intercepted on a waterproofing membrane. The most reliable assemblies will have a layer of self-adhered waterproofing membrane, which sticks to the roof deck and prevents leakage when water backs up behind ice dams and also seals around roof fasteners. One important caveat: Self-adhered membranes can invite condensation in some buildings and climates.
Gutters and flashing. The notion that all materials combined in one assembly should have the same life expectancy is an elementary principle of building design. Clay tile roofs include important perimeter flashing components that must be constructed from durable, heavy-gauge copper or stainless steel rather than aluminum or galvanized sheet metal.
Attachment. Clay tiles must be attached to the roof deck to prevent wind uplift and avoid "chatter" (the noise generated when tiles rattle against each other in gusty wind). Look for corrosion-resistant copper or stainless-steel nails; along roof perimeters, look for nose clips that restrain the front edge of the tiles. Avoid foam adhesives that are sometimes used to attach clay tiles and provide much less reliable attachment.
Does durability equate to a low life-cycle cost for your clay tile roof? Unfortunately not. The least expensive steep roof for your building is made with asphalt shingles. The late Carl Cash, a prominent roofing specialist and principal with our firm, researched the age and performance history of hundreds of roofs and compared these parameters to initial construction cost. His somewhat surprising conclusion: Asphalt shingles keep you dry for about one-quarter of the cost per year of service of clay tiles.
Niklas W. Vigener is a principal and Nicholas A. Piteo is a senior engineer in the Washington, D.C. office of Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.(www.sgh.com).
Full article can be found on www.buildings.com
The Basics of Clay Tile Roof Installation
Written by: Markus Krichel, Editor www.HomeAdvancement.com
Clay tile roofing has been around for centuries, in many parts of the world. In America, clay roofing was introduced by European settlers, and took hold after stronger fire regulations were introduced in the 1660’s. Clay roofing remains an architectural staple in many parts of the United States, particularly Florida and California.
Clay Tile Roof Installation: Two Main Kinds of Fastenings
By and large, clay roofing is secured with nails. Usually copper nails or another non-corrosive nail is used.
The second most common method is with the use of lugs or nibs which project out from the roof. The clay tiles are hung from these lugs. Today, these styles are often also secured with nails for additional assurance.
Other less common forms include hanging clay roofing with wires, clips or laying them in adhesive foam. These methods are usually done in areas with special weather concerns.
The Basic Steps of Clay Tile Roof Installation
- Assess your roof decking before attempting to walk on it. Fix any areas that show signs of rot or wear.
- Install your underlayment. This is important with clay tile roofing, as it substantially increases your roofs’ water-tightness.
- Use chalk to draw horizontal and vertical lines on your roof to serve as a guide, ensuring your clay roofing pattern stays consistent.
- Install drip-edge flashing, and gutters. Given the substantial life expectancy of a properly installed clay roof, use only the best quality metal for your flashing and gutters.
- Begin to lay the first course of your tiles. Follow manufacturer’s instructions, as every type and style of clay roofing may require a slightly different method. As with the flashing, use only the best quality metal nails that are corrosion resistant, lest you want your clay tile roofing to start falling off.
- Once your first course is attached, observe it from below to ensure it is straight. Clay roofing, as a natural material, can vary slightly in color, so rearrange the tiles now if you are unhappy with the color scheme.
- If you are happy with the result, continue laying successive courses until your roof is finished.
The Importance of Hiring a Qualified Clay Roofing Installer
Properly installed clay tile roofing has been known to last for over 100 years. The main problem with clay roofing is poor fastening, whereby clay tiles start slipping and falling off the roof. This is a direct result of poor materials and a poor clay tile roof installation. Clay roofing is not the cheapest form of roof covering available, so if you intend on investing in it, it is highly advisable to contract a qualified clay tile roofing contractor.
Full article can be found on www.homeadvancement.com.
Everybody Needs a Roof: Clay and Concrete Tiles & replacement roof tiles
Written By Chase Johnson
Clay and Concrete Tile Roofing: A Complete Guide
Thinking of investing in a tile roof? Whether you’re choosing materials for a new build or looking to replace an aging roof, it’s important to understand the key differences between clay and concrete tile systems, how they’re installed, and what goes into making them last.
This guide covers everything property owners and contractors need to know—from materials and installation to underlayment, fastening, and warranties.
Clay Tile Roofing: What It Is
Clay tiles are made by molding natural clay and baking it at high temperatures. The density of the tile is determined by both heat and bake time. Some tiles are glazed or finished with surface texturing for added color and character.
Clay tile features:
Available in a wide range of profiles, finishes, and colors
Compatible with custom accessories like ridge, hip, and gable-end tiles
Can be installed in one-piece, two-piece, interlocking, or flat formats
Particularly valued for their timeless appearance and longevity—often lasting 75 to 100 years with proper maintenance.
Concrete Tile Roofing: What to Know
Concrete tiles are formed from a blend of portland cement, sand, and water. The mixture is shaped under high pressure using molds, then cured to build strength.
Concrete tile features:
Often finished with color-infused cementitious coatings
May include “color-through” pigments for more durable color retention
Typically have lugs for anchoring to battens and interlocking edges for added water protection
Available in a variety of shapes, styles, and textures. They are generally more affordable but heavier and slightly less long-lasting than clay.
Roof Decking Requirements
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends installing tile roofs over continuous wood decking, with 5/8" minimum exterior-grade plywood.
However, there are important considerations when using:
OSB (Oriented Strand Board): Moisture sensitivity can affect fastener holding and stability
Preservative-treated wood: Should be non-oil-based; air- or kiln-dried wood is preferable
Fire-retardant-treated panels: Use caution—heat cycling can prematurely degrade some panels
For roofs using batten systems, battens must be spaced according to tile size and secured with corrosion-resistant nails at 12" intervals.
Underlayment: The Hidden Hero
Beneath the tile lies the real weatherproofing layer: the underlayment. It acts as both a temporary roof during installation and a permanent secondary barrier against water intrusion.
Types of underlayment:
Asphalt-saturated felt (Type I / Type II): Traditional and effective for decades
Synthetic underlayments: Lightweight and tear-resistant but must meet local codes and carry a valid evaluation report—ASTM does not currently standardize these
NRCA underlayment recommendations:
For 10:12 slope or steeper: One layer of No. 30 felt, installed in shingle fashion
For 4:12 to 10:12 slope: Two layers of No. 30 felt
Below 4:12 slope: Not recommended for tile roofing
In regions like Denver, where January temperatures fall below 30°F, ice-dam protection membranes are recommended. These membranes should extend at least 24" upslope from the exterior wall line, or 36" for lower-pitched roofs.
Fastening and Securement Methods
Tile securement isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your fastening approach will depend on slope, wind exposure, seismic activity, and code requirements.
Common methods include:
Nailing: Most common. Use galvanized, corrosion-resistant 11- or 12-gauge nails with barbed shanks
Wire tie or strapping: Ideal for non-nailable decks or over insulation
Clips: Often used in high-wind or earthquake-prone areas for added stability
Lug-hung tile: Tiles are hung from battens using molded lugs underneath
Mortar or foam bedding: Common in warm, dry climates; typically combined with mechanical fastening
Fasteners must be non-corrosive and appropriate for the life expectancy of the roof.
Flashings: Where Leaks Happen (If Done Wrong)
Flashing details are critical to long-term performance. They’re typically divided into four areas:
Perimeter edge metal: Protects roof edges from water intrusion and freeze-thaw damage
Penetrations: Vents and pipes should be flashed with flat flanges tucked beneath the tile course
Valleys: Open valleys usually lined with metal to channel water
Vertical transitions: Where the roof meets walls or chimneys, expect apron, step, cricket, and counterflashing to be used
Proper flashing installation is key to preventing the most common tile roof failures.
Material Standards to Know
While NRCA doesn’t endorse specific tile manufacturers, it does recommend choosing products that meet ASTM standards:
Clay Tiles: ASTM C1167
Concrete Tiles: ASTM C1492
These standards ensure the tile meets basic performance benchmarks for strength, water absorption, freeze-thaw resistance, and dimensional stability.
Warranties: What You’re Really Getting
When investing in a new tile roof, you’ll usually receive two warranties:
Manufacturer Warranty: Covers defects in the roofing material itself
Contractor Workmanship Warranty: Covers the labor and installation practices—typically 1 to 2 years, but durations vary
Always ask for both warranties in writing and review what’s covered, what’s excluded, and what actions might void coverage (e.g., improper repairs, structural changes, or skipped maintenance).
Final Thoughts: Plan for Performance
Tile roofing is one of the most durable systems available—but success depends on more than just the tile. Proper deck prep, underlayment, fastening, and flashing matter just as much.
For Colorado homeowners and HOA boards, especially in climates like Denver’s with freeze-thaw cycles and hail exposure, it’s worth choosing materials and contractors who understand these unique conditions.
Understanding Tile Roofs: Clay, Concrete, and Design Considerations
Written By Chase Johnson
Tile roofing comes in a variety of styles, each with its own appeal and ideal uses. Clay tiles, in particular, are often linked with Mediterranean and Southwestern architecture, giving homes a distinctive and timeless look.
But beyond aesthetics, tile roofs are known for their exceptional longevity. In some cases, they’ve lasted for hundreds of years. Most are made from either clay that’s been kiln-fired or durable concrete. Many are shaped in curved, barrel-like forms, and their strength is enhanced by the way they interlock during installation.
While tile roofs are commonly seen in warmer climates, they’re not exclusive to those areas. If you're in a colder region, you can still opt for tile—just be sure to choose products engineered to withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
One important consideration is weight. Tile roofing is much heavier than traditional asphalt shingles. Asphalt roofs generally weigh around 230 pounds per 100 square feet, while tile roofs can weigh between 580 and over 1,000 pounds per the same area. It’s wise to consult a structural engineer to ensure your roof framing can handle the load.
Clay vs. Concrete Tiles
When it comes to color retention and durability, clay tends to outperform concrete. A well-installed clay tile roof can last a century or more, while concrete tiles typically offer around 50 years of service. That longevity often translates to a boost in a home’s resale value.
However, that durability comes at a cost. Clay tiles usually run between $700 and $1,000 per 100 square feet—roughly double the cost of concrete. Both materials are highly fire- and impact-resistant, though they require more skill to install and repair than asphalt shingles, which generally cost between $150 and $300 per square.
Innovative Options: Smog-Reducing Tiles
Some manufacturers, like Boral, have introduced roof tiles that do more than just protect your home—they help clean the air. These tiles come with a special coating that neutralizes nitrogen oxide, a major air pollutant, turning it into a harmless compound that washes away with rain. According to the company, one roof treated with this technology can eliminate as much nitrogen oxide in a year as a car emits over 10,800 miles of driving.
Reach out to our office with any questions you might have about lightweight roof tiles, Clay tiles, our salvage tile boneyard, reroofing, or just fixing your tile roof. We pride ourselves in being one of Colorado's most experienced tile roofing contractors.