Advantages and Disadvantages of Tile Roofing

Tile Roofing is one of the most popular roof materials for residential homes. It is beautiful, durable, and comes in a wide variety of styles to complement any architectural design. However, like any type of roof it must be inspected regularly for problems and maintained to maximize its longevity.

There are several types of tile roofs: clay tiles, concrete tiles, metal roofing, and even synthetic or “imitation” tile. The traditional clay tile, also known as terra cotta, remains the most popular choice but there are many other options available to homeowners today.

Aside from their beauty, the most significant benefit of tile roofs is their energy efficiency. Because they trap air and block the sun’s heat, these roofs are highly insulating and help lower your heating and cooling costs. This is especially important in regions where temperatures often soar during the summer.

One of the main reasons for their high insulation value is that the tiles themselves are non-combustible. This means they won’t burn or melt, a trait that is extremely important in areas prone to wildfires.

Another reason why these roofs are so efficient is because the gaps in between tiles allow natural air to flow through the house, cooling it down during the summer and warming it up during the winter. This is an advantage that most other roofing materials do not provide.

Like any roofing material, tile roofs are not without their drawbacks. While they are long-lasting, they are heavy and can impose undue stresses on the structure of your home if not properly installed and supported by the proper framing. For this reason, it is important to work with a professional who has experience installing these roofs.

Another drawback is that these roofs require more maintenance than other types of roofs. They must be periodically cleaned, treated for mildew and moss, and inspected for signs of damage. This is especially true for wood tile roofs, which can deteriorate rapidly if not treated with biocides or zinc strips to prevent rusting. In addition, they must be visually inspected on a regular basis for leaf debris accumulation in the roof valleys and moss growth that can cause water to drain poorly from the roof.