Pros & Cons of Choosing Tile Roofing

May 29, 2023

Tile roofing has been a popular choice for centuries, with its elegant aesthetic and durability making it a top pick for homeowners. However, like any roofing material, tile roofing has its own pros and cons. In this blog, we'll explore both the advantages and disadvantages of tile roofing from the perspective of a roofing contractor in PA so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it's the right choice for your home.

Pros of Choosing Tile Roofing

Let's start by talking about some of the advantages that can be associated with choosing tile roofing for your home.

Long-lasting -Tile roofing can last for a very long time – often up to 50 years or more – making it a durable choice for homeowners. Additionally, tiles are made from clay, concrete, and slate, naturally resistant to fire and extreme weather conditions.
Aesthetically pleasing - Tile roofing is well-known for its beauty and elegance. Available in a wide range of colors and styles, tiles can complement any architectural style, giving your home a unique and charming look. Ask your roofing contractor in PA to show you some color samples to help you make your decision.
Low maintenance - Tile roofs require very little maintenance, especially if you opt for clay or concrete tiles. They don't require painting, sealing, or regular cleaning, making them a hassle-free option for homeowners.
Energy-efficient - Tile roofing has excellent insulation properties that can help keep your home cool during the hot summer months. This insulation can also help lower your energy bills and save you money in the long run.
Eco-friendly - Since tile roofing is usually made from sustainable resources such as clay and concrete, it is an eco-friendly option for your roof. They can also be crushed and recycled after being removed from the roof, often being used as a base for road construction.

Cons Associated with Tile Roofing

As with most things in life, tile roofing is not perfect, and there are a few downsides. However, most of these are not dealbreakers, and a roofing contractor in PA can offer up solutions to overcome many of them.

Heavy - Tiles are much heavier than other roofing materials, meaning the roof's structure may need to be reinforced to support the weight. This can add to the cost of the installation. Ask a roofing contractor in PA to inspect your roof to find out if it would be able to accommodate tile roofing without the need for additional structural support.
Expensive - Tile roofing is generally slightly more expensive than other roofing options, like asphalt shingles. The additional cost of materials and installation can be a barrier for some homeowners. However, it is worth noting that, as mentioned above, tile has a very long lifespan, so in the long term, it can be a wise investment even though the initial outlay is higher.
Fragile - Although tiles are durable and long-lasting, they can be fragile and prone to breaking if stepped on or hit by falling objects. This can make maintenance and repair work challenging and costly.
Installation - Tile roofing requires skilled and experienced professionals to install it correctly. The process can be time-consuming and complex, adding to the project's overall cost. It is important to choose a roofing contractor in PA who is experienced in installing tile roofing in order to make the process as smooth as possible.

Choosing the Right Tile For Your Roof

We briefly mentioned the versatility of choosing tile roofing, thanks to the sheer variety of colors and styles. Tile also comes in a selection of materials, both natural and synthetic. Talk to a roofing contractor in PA to find out which type of tile they believe is best suited to your property. Here are just a few of the choices you have available to you:

Slate Tile - Slate is a natural stone prized for its unique appearance. The natural color variation is very striking, and tiles made from late are naturally fire-resistant, highly durable, and long-lasting. You will need a roofing contractor in PA who is experienced in slate to make sure that it is properly installed.
Concrete Tile - One of the most affordable tile options you can choose is those made from concrete. They can be made to resemble other materials, including wood, clay, and slate, but on the downside, they are quite heavy, and your roof may need to be reinforced to accommodate the weight.
Clay Tile - Clay is the most traditional material when it comes to slate roofing, having been used as far back as 10,000 B.C. In the past, the clay would be shaped by hand and sun-dried, but these days the process is primarily machine-driven!
Composite Tile - Composite tiles are a combination of natural materials and synthetic ones. They can be produced to replicate the look of almost any other material and are incredibly lightweight, making them suitable for most homes.

In conclusion, tile roofing is an excellent choice for homeowners prioritizing durability, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. However, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the high cost and weight of the tiles. If you're considering tile roofing for your home, carefully weigh the pros and cons and consult with a professional roofing contractor in PA to ensure that you make the best decision for your home and budget.

Staying on Top of Things

Founded in 1986, Gillespie Contracting Inc is a family run professional Cedar roofer in Chester Springs, PA and sheet metal fabrication company. We have been serving Southeast Pennsylvania since 1986 providing roofing, siding, gutter systems, metal fabrication, and exterior home maintenance. If you are in need of a cedar or slate roofer in Chester Springs, PA why not get in touch by calling 610.601-6285 today.