Concrete vs. clay roof tiles is a debate that is frequently thought about by people who are self-constructing, expanding, or remodeling. The pressure is on you to make a choice because the issue of what kind of roof tile you select must be settled early in your construction.
Although there are many other kinds of roof coverings, the majority of people typically choose between concrete and clay roof tiles. The choice is frequently influenced by the cost, the house’s design, the neighborhood, and the planning requirements. But there are other factors to take into account, too, such as how long you want to stay in the house and the general look you want.
What are Clay Tiles?
In order to make clay tiles, clay molds must be baked. The amount of time and degree that the clay is heated determines its density. Clay tiles come in a variety of tones, including white, yellow, orange, and brown. Strong winds won’t damage clay tiles, and fires won’t destroy them either. Clay roofing tiles preserve the structural integrity of your home, as well as keep out unwanted noise and heat in a room.
A concrete tile is what?
Concrete tiles are manufactured from a sand, cement, and water solution that is formed under high temperatures and pressure. A substance that resembles paint may be used to finish a tile’s exposed surface.
Extra water locks, or overlapping ribs, are present on the margins of concrete tiles to further deter water infiltration. There are three primary variations of concrete tiles:
- A flat profile without any curves.
- Low Profile – tiny curves with a ratio of the rise to the width of no more than 1:5.
- High Profile: has broad curves and a rise-to-width ratio of at least 1:5.
What are the main distinctions between tiles made of concrete and clay?
1. The Absorption of Water
Clay roofing tiles absorb water at a rate of around 6%, but concrete roofing tiles absorb water at a rate of about 13%. As a result, mildew and stains grow on concrete tiles as a result of this higher rate of water absorption.
2. Weight
Weight differences between clay and concrete tiles can reach approximately 40%. Based on the type, concrete tiles can weigh between 820 and 1.100 pounds per square but the majority of clay roofing tiles only weigh between 600 and 650 pounds per square. Because concrete tiles are heavier than clay tiles, it is more challenging for the roof framework to sustain them adequately.
3. Tendency to break and crack
Clay tiles have a propensity to crack or break in colder areas as a result of freezing and melting cycles. Clay tiles are therefore typically seen in hotter areas. Alternatively, concrete tiles can be utilized in practically any climate since they are less likely to be harmed by cold temps.
4. Maintenance
Concrete tiles are far more challenging to keep clean than clay tiles, which are nearly free of these problems, due to their heavier weight, a faster rate of water absorption, and development of mildew.
5. Color Durability and Aesthetics
Clay is a naturally occurring compound, thus even after years of exposure to weather, clay tiles retain their natural color. In contrast side, concrete tiles are renowned to degrade with time, and the color-thru technique employed in them is not as successful in preserving the original vivid tile color. Concrete tiles are more susceptible to staining than clay tiles due to their highly porous structure.
6. Resilience
Although both concrete and clay tiles outlast the majority of other roofing materials in terms of longevity, clay is ultimately a more durable substance than concrete. Clay tiles may last more than 100 years, whereas concrete tiles may last 30 to 50 years.
7. Budget
The two roofing tiles are extremely dissimilar in terms of price. In essence, concrete roof tiles are a more affordable alternative to clay ones.
- On average, concrete tile prices range from $4 to $10 per square foot.
- Clay tiles typically cost $7 to $30 per square foot.
These figures only apply to the roofing tiles. A clay tile roof often costs more to build than a concrete roof. An alternative to clay roof tiles is thought to be concrete tiles, which are thought to be more cost-effective.
Which are the best roof tiles: concrete or clay?
There are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind before making your ultimate choice. How long do you intend to stay at the property? Those who are constructing a permanent residence ought to give clay roof tiles careful consideration. A concrete tile makes sense, though, if you want to quickly profit before moving on. To assure the greatest profit, choose the best you can afford.
Contrarily, if you are starting from scratch, are on a tight budget, and are content with a more consistent roof structure that can be installed rapidly, a concrete roof tile may be your best choice. It will provide you with a strong, long-lasting covering that is offered in a wide variety of colors and profiles.
