Drive through the Tampa Bay area and you are bound to catch a glimpse of neighborhoods covered with stunning clay and concrete roofing. Since the periods of Ancient Greece and Rome, clay tiles have been a central material in classic architecture and European design. A few centuries later in the 1800s, concrete tiling was introduced as a new alternative for residential homes.

So which type of tile roofing is better? Clay or concrete? While this will vary by project, our roofers at Goodfriend Roofing weigh in and discuss the similarities and differences between the two!  

‍The Importance of Quality Roofing

Before diving in, it’s important to understand why your roofing is so crucial to the integrity of your home. As friends, we’ll tell you many construction experts agree that the roof is the most important part of a house. If a roof is damaged, extensive problems such as mold and rot can quickly follow behind.  

‍

With Florida’s frequently turbulent weather, a strong and durable roof is essential to the safety and longevity of your home. Your roof must have the strength to face the weather conditions thrown upon it. Okay, moment over – we just love roofing.

‍

Both clay and concrete are excellent materials for your roof and have many similarities. However, some key differences may help you decide on what material is ideal for your circumstances.

‍

If you’re ready to cover your home with a new roof that will last a lifetime, call Goodfriend Roofing at (813)-579-5789 for a free quote. As your ‘friend who’s a roofer’, we’re glad to be there for you. Let’s protect your home!

‍

‍

Clay and concrete tiling will both withstand Florida’s heat and harsh climate.

‍

‍

Clay vs. Concrete Creation

Tile roofing is classically beautiful and is sure to improve the overall aesthetic of your home. By understanding how these roofing materials are created, you can better understand their strengths.

Clay Roof Tiles

Clay tiles are created by baking clay formed into a mold. The density is affected by the temperature and time spent baking. The overall quality depends on the type of clay. Premium clay tiles baked at high temperatures for long periods can last over a century.  

Concrete Roof Tiles

Alternatively, concrete tiles are made with regular concrete. A mixture of cement, sand, aggregate, and water is poured into a mold and heated. As the molds dry, a chemical reaction called “curing” takes place, causing the tiles to dry and harden. Concrete tiles are cheaper to buy and install and can last up to 50 years.

‍

Want to live like the Ancient Greeks with a beautiful terracotta roof? Call your friends today at (813)-579-5789 for your free quote!

How are Clay and Concrete Tiles Similar?

Whether you select clay or concrete tiling as your roofing of choice, both offer a substantial number of benefits. The pros of using either type of roofing include:

• Variety of styles and colors appropriate for many different homes
• Repel rot and pests
• Leak-proof
• Fire resistant  
• Withstand extreme weather conditions such as storms and strong winds
• Highly durable and long-lasting
• Energy-efficient  

‍

Maintenance

Both clay and cement tile roofing are relatively low maintenance, but they are not maintenance-free. To keep your roof in good condition, perform routine tasks every year such as checking for cracks and chips, fixing damaged tiles, and cleaning off leaves and dirt from both the tile and gutters.  

‍

‍

Clay and concrete tiling are both highly durable and energy-efficient, making them a long-lasting and sustainable roofing material.

‍

‍

The Disadvantages of Tile Roofing

With so many advantages, it’s obvious why so many homeowners choose clay or cement tile roofing. However, like any other type of roofing, there are downsides to consider. We wouldn’t be friends if we didn’t tell you…

‍

Both cement and clay tiles can be quite expensive since the manufacturing and installation processes are more complicated. You should expect to pay at least double the cost of asphalt shingles. Repair costs can also be more expensive, but ideally, your roof won’t need much repairing since it is so durable.

‍

Further, tiles additionally weigh significantly more, so you may need to reinforce the structure of your roof to hold the extra weight.  

‍

These disadvantages aside, clay and cement roofing tiles are still excellent options for your roof when considering all of the benefits.  

‍How are Clay and Concrete Tiles Different?

Although clay and cement tiling have countless similarities, they are quite different in several important ways.  

‍

Longevity

The most obvious reason one would choose clay over cement is for greater longevity. Clay is great for Florida’s climate with the potential to last up to one hundred years. Cement tiling will still last a long time, but only approximately thirty to fifty years.

‍

Cost

Clay may last longer, but the initial expenses are significantly more expensive. However, cement typically requires more maintenance since it absorbs more water than clay and will eventually develop mildew stains.  

‍

Eco-Friendly Roofing > Energy Efficient Options

Considering a Tile Roof? Call on a Goodfriend

If you are ready to choose a long-lasting and more energy-efficient roofing material for your home, don’t hesitate to call your friends at Goodfriend Roofing! We will help you decide which option best suits your unique home.  

‍

At Goodfriend Roofing, we’ve got you covered. Contact our team today at 813-579-5789 if you’re ready to replace your roof or if you simply need to complete that annual roof inspection. You’ve got a roof guy, well several; you can trust your friends to show up for you!

‍