When you are building a new roof for your home, one of the many structural decisions you will be faced with is whether to pick clay or concrete tiles. This may seem like a decision to be made randomly, but in fact there are several advantages and disadvantages to each type. Knowing their differences, what each tile can offer you and how your wallet might be affected is important information that can help you remain within your budget and give your home a beautiful roof that is suited to your needs.
Choosing Between Clay or Concrete Tiles? Know the Differences
The first difference that most homeowners want to know is the cost of each kind of tile as this may be the deciding factor for you. However, keep in mind that there are several other aesthetic factors to consider when making your decision, such as what colors are available in each tile, and also longevity factors
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How is Each Tile Made?
- Concrete: These tiles are made from a mix of sand, water and cement. Their shape and toughness exist as a result of being heated and exposed to high temperatures and pressures. This process leaves the tiles water resistant and strong.
- Clay: Made from clay and water, these tiles have a shape, density and firmness that comes about due to a similar heating process. The difference between these processes is that the density of clay is determined according to how long the tile is exposed to the high temperatures.
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How Do They Look?
- Concrete: Come in all shapes and all sizes and can also be painted in any color of your choosing. If you have a particular color you want your roof to have, then concrete tiling might be the better option for you.
- Clay: Also come in all shapes and sizes but cannot be painted like a concrete tile can due to its material properties and procedure of manufacturing. The most common color is Terra Cotta, which will not fade with time but actually improve with age. Many find the subtle hues and variations in color of clay very aesthetically pleasing.
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What Will They Cost?
- Concrete: These tiles will cost you considerably less than clay tiles – on average about 20% less expensive than clay.
- Clay: More expensive than concrete.
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Longevity
- Concrete: Concrete tiles absorb a higher amount of water than clay, which can lead to mildew and heaviness, and hence strain on your roofing structure. The color technology used in concrete will fade over time from exposure to the elements.
- Clay: Clay tiles absorb far less water than concrete, resulting in less pressure on your roof and less mildew – meaning less maintenance too. Clay will generally last better in hot climates, while cold climates tend to cause cracking in clay. Because of the extremely high temperatures in which clay is baked, the color is steadfast and will not fade from neither rain nor shine.
The Primary Pros and Cons
Overall, clay tiles remain to be more durable than concrete. The natural colors found in clay will not fade over time and give your roof a unique look. Clay tiles will require less roof maintenance because it absorbs less water, which could save you money on roof repairs. However, concrete tiles will save you money upfront. Less costly, and also with more variety in terms of color, concrete tiles are also not a bad option for your roof. At the end of the day, the choice is yours, and should be determined by your budget and stylistic preferences.
Why Choose Tiles For Your Roof?
A tiled roof will give your home both beauty and durability! Tiles will do well in hot climates and in areas exposed to salty air. Tiles offer you the benefits of durability, longevity, energy-efficiency as well as aesthetic value! Contact ABC Roofing Corp today at (954) 344-4622 to have tile repair done, or to have your roof tiled!
