Steadfast Roofing is a local, family-owned roofing company in Ruskin, FL, founded on faith, transparency, and honesty. As certified roofing contractors, we have the training and experience to handle all your roofing needs. Today, we delve into the details of clay tile roofing, a popular choice among homeowners for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
What Are Clay Roof Tiles?
Clay roof tiles have been used since ancient times, dating back to 10,000 B.C. in China. They have maintained their popularity due to their efficiency in keeping structures safe and dry. These tiles are made from natural clay molded into rectangular or rounded shapes. They form a barrier over your structure, allowing water to run off the sides, thereby protecting your home.
Modern clay tile roofs come with built-in reinforcements, such as wooden decking and a water-resistant underlayment, providing additional protection against the elements. This combination results in a robust roofing system that can withstand both heat and harsh weather conditions.
Pros of Clay Tile Roofs
Unmatched Longevity
One of the primary benefits of clay tile roofs is their longevity. Unlike asphalt shingles, which rarely last more than 25 years, clay tiles usually last around 50 years. This makes them a great investment for homeowners who prefer not to deal with frequent repairs or replacements. Although individual tiles may occasionally break, they are strong and durable, making replacements a simple and quick process.
Perfect Protection for Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay experiences extreme weather events like tropical storms and hurricanes. Clay tile roofs are well-suited to withstand these conditions due to their:
- Weight and wind resistance: Clay tiles are heavy and can resist winds up to 150 mph.
- Fire resistance: They have a Class A fire rating, making them highly fire-resistant.
- Durability: They are immune to rot and highly resistant to insect and pest damage.
- Impact resistance: Clay tiles can withstand damage from flying debris.
- Heat reflection: They reflect the sun’s rays, helping to keep your home cooler.
Fantastic Curb Appeal
Clay tile roofs offer a luxurious aesthetic that can be customized to match your home’s style. With various styles available, these roofs enhance your property’s curb appeal, potentially increasing its market value. This makes clay tile roofs an excellent investment if you plan to sell your home in the future.
Cons of Clay Tile Roofs
High Costs
Clay tile roofs are among the most expensive roofing options. The tiles themselves are costly, and their installation requires an experienced crew, further increasing labor costs. Homeowners should budget at least $25,000 for a clay tile roof.
Heavy Weight
Clay roofing tiles are heavy, weighing between 600 and 1,500 pounds per 100 square feet. Not all structures can support this weight, and in some cases, your home’s wooden decking may need reinforcement. At Steadfast Roofing, we offer in-person roof inspections to ensure your home can support a clay tile roof.
Underlayment Replacement
While clay tiles can last over a century, the underlayment beneath them will need replacement every 20 years. This replacement, although less expensive than a full roof replacement, still costs several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
Clay tile roofs offer numerous benefits, including longevity, protection from extreme weather, and enhanced curb appeal. However, they also come with high costs, heavy weight, and the need for periodic underlayment replacement. At Steadfast Roofing, we specialize in affordable residential roof replacements and use only the best quality materials. Whether you’re considering a clay tile roof or another type, our team is here to provide expert guidance and top-notch service.
For more information on different roofing materials, check out our article on Metal vs. Slate Roofing.
