A roof is one of the most critical parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and provides structural support that keeps your home together. Though there are many types of roofs, tile is an excellent option for homeowners looking for great weather protection and durability.
Tile roofs last a lifetime and come in a range of styles and materials, giving buyers options from affordable to high-end. Tile roofs cost an average of $8,202–$24,645, including installation. Our guide covers what to consider before making a purchase.
Average Tile Roof Cost
An average tile roof costs $16,000. We’ve detailed the main factors that affect the price below.
- Labor: Labor is one of the most significant roofing expenses. Contractors will consider your roof size, height, and angle when calculating costs. You’ll likely pay more if you have a complex roof design that requires a special approach.
- Roofing Material: Some types of tile are more expensive than others due to their durability and installation complexity.
- Style: The tile style you choose affects labor and long-term maintenance costs. Certain tiles are better at managing water runoff and preventing mold buildup. This tiling will cost more but can save you money in the long run.
Cost by Square Foot
Here’s an overview of estimated tile roof costs based on your roof’s size. The material and installation costs are separate expenses.
| Roof Square Footage | Material Cost per Sq. Ft. | Installation Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| 1,500 | $3,000–$15,000 | $12,000–$37,500 |
| 2,000 | $4,000–$20,000 | $16,000–$50,000 |
| 2,500 | $5,000–$25,000 | $20,000–$62,500 |
| 3,000 | $6,000–$30,000 | $24,000–$75,000 |
Cost by Style of Tiles
Here are the average costs of each tile style.
| Style | Installation Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Barrel | $10–$13 |
| Flat | $8–$9 |
| French | $9–$11 |
| Interlocking | $3–$5 |
| Mission | $9–$11 |
| Pantile | $8–$10 |
| Riviera | $9–$11 |
| Spanish-style | $8–$10 |
Barrel Tile
Barrel tiles’ timeless look makes them a good investment. However, their semicircle design makes installation tricky, increasing labor costs.
Flat Tile
Flat tiles are some of the easiest and most affordable to install. They have a basic look that matches most homes’ aesthetics.
French Tile
French tiles have indentations that help maximize water runoff. They’re a bit more expensive than other tiles but a great option for areas with heavy rain.
Interlocking
These tiles overlap and interlock on the side, making installation easy and affordable.
Mission
Also known as “Double Roman,” these tiles have a distinct shape that is perfect for a Mediterranean look. However, their unique shape makes installation challenging.
Pantile
Pantiles have a rippled look due to their “S” shape, which can be a good option for controlling water runoff.
Riviera
Riviera tiles have a flattened bump, giving them a dramatic shaded look. Unfortunately, they can be hard to source, increasing the price.
Spanish
Spanish tiles, sometimes called Mediterranean tiles, are ideal for regions with heavy rain. However, they’re extremely delicate and must be handled with care, which can lengthen the installation time.
Cost by Type of Tiles
Here’s an overview of each tile type’s cost.
| Type | Material Cost per Sq. Ft. | Installed Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Clay | $3–$7 | $8–$22 |
| Composite | $7–$11 | $12–$26 |
| Concrete | $2–$4 | $7–$19 |
| Metal | $6–$15 | $11–$30 |
| Slate | $5–$30 | $10–$45 |
| Terracotta | $5–$10 | $10–$25 |
Clay
Clay roof tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Though more expensive than other materials, they’re incredibly durable and require little maintenance. A clay tile roof’s life expectancy is 100 years when properly installed.
Composite
Composite tiles come in a wide range of shapes and finishes. They’re lightweight, eco-friendly, and last around 50 years. The tiles can be expensive, but they’re easy to install, reducing labor costs.
Concrete
Concrete tiles are one of the most affordable options. Concrete tile roofing can last up to 50 years if well maintained. However, they’re heavy and less water-resistant than other materials, making them susceptible to mold.
Metal
Metal roof tiles are low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and last 50–70 years. Installation can be complicated, so they’re more expensive.
Slate
Slate is one of the longest-lasting tiles. Hard slate tiles can last up to 200 years, while soft slate lasts about 125 years. However, both types are heavy and usually require additional roofing support, increasing installation costs.
Terracotta
Terracotta tiles are incredibly durable, lasting up to 100 years, depending on your region. They’re great at resisting heat but don’t hold up well in colder environments.
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Factors Affecting Cost
Tile style, type, and installation difficulty have the most significant impacts. We’ve outlined a few other things to consider when budgeting for your new tile roof.
Boots and Vents
Roofs often have pipes or vents to expel waste from your plumbing and ventilation systems. The collar on the bottom of the vent is called a boot. The boot repels water from infiltrating the vent. You may need to replace existing boots or vents when replacing your roof, which can increase costs.
Color Selection
One perk of tile roofing is that it can be colored to match your home’s aesthetic. Adding color can increase the cost by $0.50–$5 per square foot.
Old Roof Removal
You’ll have to pay to remove your old roof before installing your new one. It costs $0.50–$1 per square foot, plus dumpster rental costs.
Replace Tiles vs. New Roof
Tile roofs are known for their durability. You can save a lot of money by replacing a small number of tiles instead of installing a whole new roof. However, you may need to replace your roof rather than repair it if there’s damage underneath the tiles.
Reinforcement
Certain tile types can be very heavy. You may need to reinforce parts of your roof to install concrete or slate tiles, which will increase costs.
Tile Roof Underlayment
All roofs need underlayment for additional weatherproofing and protection. Your installer will determine the amount of underlayment needed based on your roof’s slope and selected tile type. The underlayment typically costs $0.50–$2 per square foot.
Professional vs. DIY
You may be tempted to save money by installing a tile roof yourself. However, this can be dangerous and is best left to professionals. We’ve detailed why below.
Professional Tile Installation
Professional roofing installers have extensive knowledge, training, and experience with roof structures and the installation process. They know how to maneuver heavy materials while standing on a roof, install underlayment and flashing to waterproof your home, and avoid breaking any tiles.
Roofing contractors can also ensure your roof installation is structurally sound. They’ll know how to correct an issue if something goes wrong. Most of all, you’ll have peace of mind that your roof has been installed correctly and will last as long as possible.
DIY Tile Installation
Do-it-yourself (DIY) roof installation or replacement isn’t recommended. When replacing tiles, a roofer will inspect the underlayment to see if it needs replacement. They’ll also check to ensure you don’t have mold or other structural issues. Hiring a professional saves you from the danger of climbing and standing on a precarious roof.
Top Roofing Companies
Tile roofs are popular in areas that experience hot weather and exposure to salt air. You’ll see them most commonly in places such as California, Florida, and the Southwest. They’re also highly resistant to hail, high winds, rot, and insect damage, so they’re a great choice if you face any of those issues in your area.
We’ve researched and vetted roofing companies across the country. Find top-recommended roofers near you in our guides below.
Signs That You Need to Replace Your Tile Roof
Replacing your roof can be costly, but it may be necessary. Here are some signs to look out for.
- Cracked tiles: Cracked tiles can be replaced, but waiting to do so can lead to long-term damage. Many cracked tiles may be a sign that your roof is getting old.
- Discoloration: Discoloration on your roof tiles may signify algae buildup. Left unmanaged, algae can eat away at your roof and cause severe damage.
- Interior staining: Staining on your home’s interior ceiling can signify a leaking roof. It’s best to investigate this quickly, as holding off could cause more damage.
- Water seeping: Water can seep underneath improperly installed tiles. Noticing this may indicate that your roof is old or was installed improperly and requires replacement.
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How To Save on Tile Roof Costs
Some expenses are unavoidable if you need to replace your roof, but there are a few ways to save.
- Consider material: Natural materials such as slate, clay, and concrete can be appealing, but they’re heavy and require building additional support. Choose a lighter material, such as composite or metal, to cut costs.
- Don’t make custom upgrades: Tile roofing is highly customizable, but adding color, pattern, or unique shape will add to your expenses.
- Future proof: It’s essential to think about the future of your roof, especially if you want to save long-term. For example, if you live in an area with heavy rain, choosing a tile that will divert water away from your home could help you avoid expensive roof repairs due to water damage.
- Style selection: Choosing an easy-to-install tile will save on installation costs. Time saved equals money in your pocket.
Our Conclusion
Tile roofing is an eco-friendly, low-maintenance, and durable option great for protecting your home long-term. Hiring professional roofers is crucial to ensure your roof is installed properly and lasts as long as possible.
Research various contractors in your area and request multiple estimates. Use our tool below to get matched with local contractors.
FAQs About Tile Roof Cost
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