What Are Concrete Tile Roofs? (2024 Guide)
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Concrete tile roofing is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional tile roofing. It’s becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and builders for its appealing blend of style, affordability, and durability.
However, concrete tiles won’t work with every roof. They’re heavy, and your roof must be able to hold the extra weight. Our guide will explain what concrete tiles are and explain the related considerations to help you decide if concrete tiles are the right choice for you.
What Is a Concrete Tile Roof?
Concrete tiles are made from sand, cement, water, and iron oxide, which are mixed and shaped to size. Concrete tile installation involves removing the old roof, replacing the roof underlayment, and installing battens to fasten the tiles.
In the 19th century, concrete roof tiles were handmade or made with semi-automated machines. Today, concrete tile production is automated, resulting in higher efficiency and lower production costs. This change has made modern concrete tiles an affordable alternative to traditional clay or slate tiles. Though the initial cost is still higher than asphalt shingles, the durability and longevity of concrete tiles often make them more cost-effective over their lifespan.
Concrete tiles have various styles, colors, and finishes that suit different architectural designs. They come in three styles: low or flat, medium (less than or equal to 1 inch of height for every 5 inches of width), and high (greater than 1 inch of height for every 5 inches of width). You can choose traditional earth tones, pastels, or multicolor blends.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Concrete Tile Roofs?
Here’s a breakdown of concrete tile roofs’ benefits and drawbacks.
- Durability: Concrete tiles are Class A fire-rated and hail resistant. They can withstand winds over 125 miles per hour, which would strip off asphalt shingles and most other roofing materials.
- Longevity: Concrete roof tiles can last 100 years or longer.
- Versatility: Concrete tiles come in almost any style and color option. Modern tiles can mimic the appearance of traditional clay tile, wood shake, slate, and stone.
- Energy efficiency: Concrete tile transfers less heat than other materials, helping your home stay cool in summer and trapping heat inside during winter. This can help lower energy bills.
- Low maintenance: Concrete tiles resist rot, insect infestation, and they don’t require frequent repainting or sealing like some other materials.
- Home value: A durable, stylish concrete tile roof can be an attractive selling point for potential buyers, adding value to your home.
- Environmental impact: Concrete tiles can be made with recycled materials and are themselves often recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
- Cost: Even though concrete tiles are more affordable than traditional tiles, they’re still more expensive than other options.
- Installation complexity: Properly installation concrete tiles requires specialized skills and knowledge to ensure the correct underlayment, flashing, and batten configuration. This can contribute to higher installation costs.
- Weight: According to HomeAdvisor.com, concrete tiles weigh over 900 pounds per square—about two-thirds more than other tile options. Some roofs may require extra structural support to hold the tiles.
- Fragility: Concrete is strong, but if a tile is dropped or falls off the roof, it’s likely to sustain damage. It’s also not wise to walk on them.
- Weathering: Areas exposed to the elements can lose pigmentation over time. You can embrace the weathered look or paint your tiles, but some colors are difficult to match.
- Efflorescence: Efflorescence is a white, powdery deposit that can form on concrete surfaces. It’s caused by soluble salts being leached out of the concrete. While it’s primarily a cosmetic issue, severe cases could indicate underlying moisture problems.
- Algae and moss growth: In climates with high humidity or frequent rainfall, concrete tile roofs can be susceptible to algae and moss growth, which can stain the tiles.
What Is the Cost of Concrete Roof Tiles?
Tile installation costs vary depending on your roof’s size, the project’s complexity, roof pitch, location, and whether your roof requires additional reinforcement. The concrete tiles’ look and quality also determine cost. A concrete tile roof costs $2–$4* per square foot for materials and $9–$18 per square foot fully installed. On a 1,500-square-foot roof, expect to pay $13,500–$27,000.*
Here’s a table comparing the cost of concrete roof tiles and other roofing materials.
| Roofing Material | Average Cost (Including Installation) |
|---|---|
|
Asphalt shingles |
$2.80–$6 |
|
Metal roofing |
$4–$25 |
|
Wood shakes |
$6–$15 |
|
Concrete tiles |
$9–$18 |
|
Clay roof tiles |
$8–$25 |
|
Terracotta roof tiles |
$10–$25 |
|
Slate tiles |
$10–$30 |
* Cost data averaged from multiple sources, including Fixr and Angi.
What Is the Best Concrete Tile Roof for Your Home?
The best concrete tile for your home depends on your budget, climate, and design preferences—as well as the architectural style of your home. A classic Spanish tile roof, for instance, wouldn’t suit a modern farmhouse.
- Budget: If you’re working with a limited budget, explore the full range of concrete tile profiles and features to find the best balance of cost and durability. You can opt for lower-cost concrete tile profiles, but you may have to compromise quality for price.
- Climate: Concrete tiles can be a good choice for many climates, but using them in colder regions can be tricky. If you live in an area with wind-driven snow and harsh winters, choose a tile designed to withstand freeze-thaw cycles. Specialized installation techniques might also be necessary in areas that experience wind-driven snow and ice damming. For example, the government requires an ice barrier in areas prone to ice build-up along gutters and eaves.
- Style: No matter your budget or location, there’s likely a concrete tile style that matches your preference. Designs can imitate the look of clay tiles, wood shake, slate, or stone. Surfaces can be textured or smooth and come in a range of colors.
Check the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy website for more information on concrete roof tiles.
How Long Does a Concrete Tile Roof Last?
With proper care, concrete tile roofs can last over 100 years. However, your roof’s lifespan depends on many factors, including tile quality, installation, climate, and maintenance. The harsh weather in colder regions or persistent salt exposure in coastal areas can reduce its lifespan.
Proper installation is especially important in storm-prone areas where specialized techniques, like reinforced underlayment, might be necessary. Special installation methods are also needed for concrete tile roofs in colder regions.
Concrete roofs are low-maintenance, but we do recommend an annual roof inspection. You should also check for damage after storms and remove any debris. In rainy climates, occasional professional cleaning might be required to prevent moss or algae growth.
What Are Alternatives to Concrete Tile Roofs?
The most common alternatives to concrete roof tiles are asphalt roofing shingles, metal, wood, slate, and clay tiles. Concrete tiles can be designed to mimic the appearance of these materials but might offer a more cost-effective and durable option in some cases.
For a brief overview of the other popular roofing materials and how they compare on key metrics, check out the video below. General contractor Tom Silva walks through the expected lifespan, installation process, and costs associated with four common materials: asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal panels, and clay tiles.
Our Conclusion
Concrete tile roofs are a substantial investment—especially if your roof requires additional structural reinforcements. For many homeowners, the lower energy bills, longer life span, and endless style options make concrete tile roofs worth the price.
If you’ve decided on concrete tiles for your new roof, start by getting several quotes from local roofing contractors who specialize in concrete roofing. Multiple estimates can help you understand what prices are normal in your area and whether they match your project budget.
FAQ About Concrete Tile Roofs
Are concrete tile roofs good?
Yes, concrete tile roofs can be an excellent choice thanks to their durability, energy efficiency, and style versatility. When properly maintained and installed, concrete tiles can withstand winds over 125 miles per hour and last over 100 years. However, they do cost more than many other roofing materials and may not work on all roofs.
Do concrete roofs leak?
Concrete roofs are not especially prone to leaking. However, improper installation, damage, or issues with the underlayment or flashing can cause a concrete roof to leak—just like any other roof. Regular inspections and maintenance are key to preventing leaks and ensuring a long-lasting roof.
Do concrete roofs need to be sealed?
Most concrete roofs do not need to be sealed because they already come with a water-resistant surface treatment. However, waterproof sealants are available for old tiles, aesthetic purposes, and harsh climates.
Are concrete tiles better than shingles?
Concrete tiles are better than asphalt shingles in terms of durability and longevity. They can also be more energy-efficient and offer greater style variety. On the downside, concrete tiles are much heavier and more expensive than shingles.
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