If you are thinking about getting your roof replaced, you should know you have a lot of options, and making a decision may be difficult. One of the best roofing options in Texas is tile. Roof tiles are extremely weather resistant, which is great in a state that can get ice, wind, hail, severe thunderstorms, and days of rain. If you are considering a tile roof, here is a quick guide to all of the types and colors of tile you have to choose from.
Metal Roof Tiles
Metal roof tiles are a great choice for any Texan who wants a rustic, farmhouse, or vintage look. Usually, metal roof tiles are made out of copper, steel, or aluminum. Rather than individual shingle tiles–such as asphalt shingles, metal roof tiles come out in large sheets. This allows metal tiles to leave the factory in larger sheets, which means they are lighter and stronger than asphalt tiles. Metal tiles can be painted if you want, or you can leave them in their original colors. Popular color choices for metal tiles include green, brown, and rust. Metal roof tiles also come in several designs, so you can choose one that best fits your decor.
Metal tiles also are highly energy efficient. They reflect sunlight and help to keep homes cool, which is no small feat in Texas in the summer. You can expect a metal roof to last from 40 to 70 years if they are cared for.
While there are a lot of pros with metal roofs, there are also some cons. If you did not grow up in a home with a metal roof, you may find them to be noisy. Many people find the sound of rain on a metal roof soothing. If your metal roof needs to be repaired, it may be difficult to color match. Metal roof tiles can be expensive, and they need to be installed properly so that they last a long time.
Clay Roof Tiles
San Antonio is known for its Spanish-style architecture, and one of the hallmarks of Spanish-style or Mediterranean-style homes is a clay roof. Clay roof tiles are great for Texas living. Clay is very durable, can’t be destroyed by insects or mold, and is fire resistant. Clay comes in a variety of colors as well, such as brown, green, red, gray, and black. Because clay tiles allow air to circulate underneath them, clay tiles are energy efficient as well. A clay roof can last a homeowner for decades. Clay tiles represent one of the oldest roof types, and it is easy to see why.
Clay tile roofs have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof. Also, if you live in an area that experiences temperature extremes, the clay tiles can become brittle. Clay tile roofs are heavier than the average roof, so if you opt for a clay roof, you may need to get reinforcements done to your roof before installation.
Slate Roof Tiles
Along with clay tiles, slate roof tiles are another type of roofing that has been around for centuries. Slate roof tiles are made of stone mined from a quarry. Because it is made of stone, slate is naturally resistant to mold, rot, and fire. Also, many roofing companies install filtration systems so air circulates underneath the roof, which cuts down on heating bills. For people who are concerned about the environment, slate roofs are built with green, renewable materials. Slate is hand cut by master stonecutters and fitted to your roof, so it can fit a variety of design styles. Slate does not come in as many colors as other roofing choices, but you can select from gray, black, red, green, and purple, depending on where the stone is mined. Slate roofs can last up to 100 years or longer.
Slate roofs have some of the same disadvantages as a clay tile roof. They are heavy, and they can turn brittle with time and weather extremes. Also, slate roofs are one of the most expensive forms of tile roofs. On average, a slate roof will last for an extremely long time, but it will cost you two to three times more money than a traditional asphalt roof.
What About Concrete?
Concrete has been around for thousands of years as well and is used in all kinds of construction projects, from sidewalks to roads to dams and bridges. There are a lot of advantages to concrete tile roofs. First, concrete is lightweight and strong, which makes it a great roofing choice. Concrete tiles are extremely durable, even against that dreaded Texas hail. Concrete is usually gray, but it can also be colored red, black, or brown. Concrete is another great energy-efficient choice because it allows air to circulate underneath the tiles.
Concrete roofs are cost-effective, but they don’t always react well to weather conditions. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather with hail, you may not want to invest in a concrete tile roof. Also, concrete is porous, which means it may allow mold or lichens to grow on it. That’s a look you may not want for your home.
Concrete roof tiles are a popular choice for people who are concerned about the environment. They are sustainably made, can be recycled, and are non-toxic, so they are perfect for people who want a more eco-friendly home.
Conclusion
There are a lot of great reasons to love tile roofs. Keep in mind, however, that your roof represents a long-term investment in your home. You will want to choose your tile roof carefully, because once it is installed, you won’t be able to change your mind. There are advantages and disadvantages to tile roofing materials. If you aren’t sure which tile roof is right for you, why not contact Roof Fix here in San Antonio? We have been installing and repairing roofs for nearly a decade. We can come out and take a look at your roof and listen to what you want as a roof replacement. Get in touch with us today.
