Tile roofs are one of the many roofing materials available on the market. When it comes to tile roofs, you can actually choose between two different variants: concrete and clay. While similar, there are actually a few key differences that sets these options apart from one another.
Here’s a comparison between concrete and clay tile roofs.
Water Absorption
Both concrete and clay tile roofs can absorb water, but they have very different absorption rates. Professionals say that the absorption rate of concrete tile is 13% while clay tile’s water absorption rate is a mere 6%. This means that compared to clay tiles, it’s more likely for concrete tiles to develop mildew and stains. This can cause an unnecessary increase in the pressure of the roof structure.
Propensity to Crack and Shatter
Both clay and concrete tiles are incredibly durable roofing materials. However, this all depends on the climate of your area. In fact, in colder climates, clay tiles have a tendency to crack and shatter due to the freezing and thawing cycles. Due to this, clay tiles are often only used in areas with warm climates. Concrete tiles, meanwhile, aren’t as susceptible to damage due to freezing temperatures as clay is, meaning they can be used in almost any climate.
Maintenance
On the other hand, if you’re looking at the roofing tile’s maintenance needs, experts say that concrete is a maintenance-heavy material due to its weight and water absorption rate. Clay tiles, meanwhile, are practically maintenance free due to their low absorption rate and light weight.
Lifespan
In terms of lifespan, concrete and clay tiles outperform most roofing materials by decades. This is because concrete can last anywhere between 30 to 50 years so long as it’s properly maintained. Clay tiles, on the other hand, can last up to 100 years.
Need someone to help you replace your roof? Don’t hesitate to turn to Roofing by Curry. Give us a call at (941) 921-9111, or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve homeowners in Sarasota, FL, and other nearby areas.
