Clay and Concrete Tiles: Best Options for Arizona Home Owners

September 1, 2017

Tiles are among the choices of many homeowners in Arizona. They have learned that clay and concrete tiles are among the most popularly used materials for roofs due to several reasons.

Tile Will Last

Homeowners always look for the best and when they say ‘best’, they mean the most durable of all. Tile roofing materials last for about 40 to 50 years and among the most durable roofing materials available in the country. They are energy efficient because the tiles are spaced in such a way that there is a space for them to ‘breathe’ so while the heat can get in easily, it can also cool down easily.

Tile has a southwestern flair that is unique and loved by most people. The tile’s heat-resistant feature protects your house roof from fire and from the scorching heat of sunny Arizona.

Tile is Heavy

While the tiles have its own pros, it has its own cons as well. Clay and concrete tiles are heavy so it is essential that your house is strong enough to support a tile roofing material. For this reason, there are additional documents that are needed before you can install a tile roof on your house. An engineer’s report detailing your house’s capability to handle the weight is needed. If it fails, the engineer will suggest some woodwork to be done in order to support a tile roof. There’s good news though, tile manufacturers are now working on lightweight tile materials.

Tile Can be Fragile

Tile is very fragile that it is hard to walk on the roof. It can break when you step on them. Tiles have various kinds and each kind has its own quality level and durability. The price also depends on this which means, a tile roofing may be expensive but surely, homeowners will get the value of their product from an appraisal standpoint.

One thing that may make you think twice about getting tile for your roof is if it’s difficult to maintain. The tile roofing material is not waterproof so there is a need to put a felt underlayment to stop the water from getting in and keep them out. One thing good is that it will take 12 to 20 years to replace those felt underlayment.

Depending on your preferences, you may or may not choose tiles for your house roof. All roofing materials have their own pros and cons and usually, the more the pros, the higher the price, too and vice-versa when there are more cons than pros, it may be cheaper that way, too.