Springer Roofing LLC

Do you love the beautiful and attractive look of roof tiles? If the answer is a big Yes!, then you are among a growing number of homeowners in Miami who pick tiles as the roofing material of choice for their homes, and you certainly are in the right path.

A tile roof is often a big upfront investment, especially if you opt for clay tiles rather than concrete ones. Traditional (non-metal made) tiles are most commonly available in either concrete or clay, and come in several different shapes, profiles and colors.

Concrete tiles are quite expensive in comparison to most other roofing choices, you’ll need to consider whether all the added benefits that real tiles have to offer are worth the extra expense.

It’s important to keep in mind that the total life cycle cost of concrete tiles should protect your roof for 50 years plus. That means the upfront investment, pays off long-term.

If unique style and authenticity is what you are looking for, then tiles should be a safe choice for your home, provided that you are also willing to invest in the structural reinforcement of your roof structure, remember that concrete tiles are weightest compared to other roofing materials in Miami.

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A CONCRETE TILE?

A concrete tiles are made of mixture of sand, cement and water, which are molded under heat and high pressure. The exposed surface of a tile may be finished with a paint like material.

Concrete tiles have additional water locks, or interlocking ribs on the edges that prevent water infiltration. Concrete tiles come in three main appearances, which are:

1. Flat profile: no curves.
2. Low Profile: small curves and has a rise to width ratio equal to 1:5 or less.
3. High Profile: large curves and has a rise to width ratio greater than 1:5.

Concrete tiles simulate the appearance of traditional clay tiles, wood shake, slate and stone. Concrete tile surfaces can be textured or smooth, and tile edges can be ragged or uniform. They are resistant to hail, wind, and fire, making them a very safe roofing material when properly installed. You can basically design it anyway you want it to look like.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF CONCRETE ROOF TILES?

1. Water Absorption

Concrete roofing tiles have a water absorption of about 13%. Consequently, this higher rate of water absorption leads to the development of mildew and stains on concrete tiles.

Absorbed water also increases the already heavy weight of a concrete tile, and puts increases pressure on the roof structure.

2. Weight

Concrete tiles weigh almost 40% more than regular roof tiles. Concrete tiles can weigh anywhere from 820 to 1.100 pounds per square (100 sq. ft.), depending on the style, As a result, it is more difficult for the roof structure to adequately support the heavier weight of concrete tiles.

In some cases, concrete tiles are not recommended for use on buildings, unless the roof framing is reinforced to support the added weight.

3. Maintenance

Heavier weight, higher rate of water absorption and formation of mildew makes concrete tiles a lot more challenging to maintain than clay tiles, which are almost free of these issues.

4. Color Longevity and Appearance

Since clay is a naturally occurring material, clay tiles maintain their original color for years despite being subjected to weather conditions.

On the other hand, the color-thru technology used in concrete tiles is not as effective in maintaining the original bright tile color, and concrete tiles are known to fade over time.

5. Durability

While concrete tiles outperform most other roofing materials in durability, concrete tiles may last between 30 to 50 years.

As you can see, ceramic roof tiles, offer some advantages and some disadvantages for homeowners in Miami, it basically depends in your current and specific situation, your home structure, the place you live at, beside another external factor.

If you are looking to get Concrete shingles installed in your home in Miami, make sure to contact Springer Roof. We’re expert roofers with several years of experience and hundreds of projects completed in the Miami area. We will gladly help you with your next project.