A clay tile or Spanish tile roof is a trendy and timeless roofing choice for homeowners, especially in regions prone to excessive heat. Not only do they look great, but compared to other roofing options, clay tile roofs are relatively low maintenance and remarkably durable when exposed to abrasive climates and elements. Of course your tile roof, like any major home renovation or improvement, does require a significant investment and it’s in your best interest to know how long it will likely last. In other words, what is a tile roof life expectancy?
Tile Roof Life Expectancy
The good news for those looking into tile roofs is that the longevity of a well-built tile roofs dwarfs that of a traditional asphalt shingle. In fact, the tile roof you purchase today will likely be the last one you’ll ever need. Clay tile roofs generally last anywhere between 50 and 100 years and their warranties typically far exceed other roofing options.
Resistant to heat, harsh weather, fire, and rot, a clay tile roof is hard to beat in terms of durability and longevity. However, there are certain variables that can affect your tile roof’s lifespan one way or another.
Maintenance
As durable as they are, clay roofing tiles are somewhat prone to algae buildup and they do tend to collect debris at a higher rate than other roofs. You’ll want to keep an eye on your roof and knock out any buildup before it becomes unmanageable. If you do notice any cracking or crumbling, you’ll want to get those areas repaired or replaced as necessary. And it never hurts to have a professional come and inspect your roof for potential problem areas so that they can be addressed and rectified early on.
Weather/Climate
There is a reason clay tiles are far more popular in southern states like Florida as compared to northern states more susceptible to harsh winters. Clay tiles perform better in warmer climates as rapid freezing can cause tiles to chip or crack. If you do live in a region that gets its fair share of winter abuse, and you simply love the look of a clay tile roof, there are clay tile options out there that are built to withstand the cold. If this is something you’re interested in, your roofing professional can help steer you in the right direction in getting a clay tile roof better equipped for freezing temperatures.
Material
Tile roofs come in clay, concrete, and slate (although clay is certainly the most widely used and well known). And in terms of longevity, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. However, slate roofs do typically tend to last the longest of the three with clay and concrete coming in second and third respectively. However, any one of these options will last upwards of 50 to 100 years without fail. So any tile material would be a safe investment for your home.
When is it time to replace my tile roof?
Tile roofs are built to last, so it’s unlikely you’ll ever have to replace your roof entirely more than once in a lifetime (barring a natural disaster or other act of God). Most issues like cracking, chipping, mildew build up, etc. can thankfully be rectified without needing to invest in a full roof replacement. If you tile roof does need repaired, it’s a task best left to a roofing professional.
In short, while they cost a bit higher than an asphalt roof, a tile roof life expectancy is far greater. A tile roof is an excellent investment in your home due to their unmatched durability and longevity. They are remarkably resilient to most any outdoor elements your home is bound to encounter and are fully capable of lasting upwards of 50 years or more. At CWC Roofing, we have years of experience installing Spanish tile roofs for satisfied clients throughout Florida. For more information on tile roofing, visit our tile roofing page.