Although tile roofing systems are one of the most popular type of roofs for residential areas, they are also used as commercial roofing systems. Tile roofs are sought after because of their proven performance and virtually limitless variety of colors and styles. Tiles are typically created using concrete or clay. Due to modern innovations, tile roofing can be used for many architectural styles such as authentic Spanish, Mediterranean and New England Colonial, historic or contemporary. They can also be created flat, rounded or can even emulate other roofing materials such as wood shakes.
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Clay and tile roofs are one of the most cost-effective choices for roofing systems because of their long lifespan. A typical lifespan for a tile roof is 50 to 100 years or more with some manufacturers offering warranties that vary between 50 years to the life of the structure itself. All roofing systems require maintenance and some climatic regions have special issues to address regardless of the type of roof. However, under normal conditions, tile roofing systems are low maintenance and such maintenance is typically restricted to gutters, protrusion flashings and venting.
Tile roofs are more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof. As a general rule, concrete tile roofs cost much less than slate, about two times more than wood shakes, and approximately three times more than heavy weight asphalt shingles. Clay roof tiles cost slightly more than concrete. Both concrete and clay tile outlast other roofing materials. Some manufacturers offer warranties of 50+ years. In Asia and Europe, structures with clay roof tiles have remained intact and beautiful for centuries. And, they are very fire and wind resistant.
Both clay and concrete roof tiles are made from naturally occurring materials. Old tiles can be recycled to make new tiles or other products. Roofs made with tile are required to have a ventilated air space under the roof surface. This is important in colder regions where the air space keeps the roof surface cool. This reduces potential ice damming in winter, and keeps the attic space cooler in the summer.
Tile roofs can come in colors from traditional orange to blues, purples and white. When glazing is used to seal the tile, colors will remain for a very long time. Softening of colors may occur after extended exposure.
Tile roofs are very specialized materials and, like slate, takes a skilled craftsman to install.
The system has to be installed to the manufacturers installation instructions, the listing, where applicable, and the building code.
Professional Chicagoland Roofing Council contractor craftspeople understand the artful and craft skills required to install tile so it will live on for 50+ years.
Visit the specific slate & tile membrane pages for more information.
Professional Chicagoland Roofing Council contractor roofing technicians understand the complexity of all types of roofing and get the installation done right the first time. Contact a CRC Contractor that has the equipment, workforce and technology to get your roof done right.