What is a Tile Roof and What You Should Know About Them

Tile Roofing in Muskingum, Fairfield, & Licking County, Ohio

Tile roofs are an ancient, beautiful, and resilient form of roofing. They can add an air of elegance to a home while also offering practical advantages to the homeowner. Since tile roofs are not the most common roofing choice in Ohio, it is helpful for homeowners to understand their benefits as well as some considerations to keep in mind when considering tile.

The tiles used in roofing can be made from a variety of materials including ceramic, concrete, clay, and slate. Each type of tile has a unique texture that adds to the atmosphere of a home in a different way. When workers are constructing a tile roof, they start from the lowest part of the roof and overlap rows of tiles as they build to the roof’s peak. This overlap gives tile roofs their distinctive look.

Tile Roof Benefits

One of the main advantages to tile roofs is their durability. They can remain intact and structurally sound for decades. They offer protection against hailstorms, high winds and similar weather patterns that can damage other types of roofs.

Tile roofs are not susceptible to decay the way that wood roofing materials are, and they tend to especially last longer in climates that receive heavy rain fall. Tile roofs are also fireproof and as such are one of the safest roofing options on the market.

Of special interest to Ohio residents is the excellent ventilation provided by tile roofs. They create cooler homes during hot summers and enhance insulation during the region’s chilly winters. This type of roofing contributes to more efficient HVAC systems and may cut costs on power bills.

Eco-conscious homeowners will appreciate the recyclability of tiles. Because they are made from organic materials, they can be broken down and easily reused rather than sitting in landfills like synthetic roofing materials.

Tile Roof Considerations

Homeowners should note that tile roofs are the most expensive kind of roof to install upfront. The installation is labor intensive and the materials themselves are costly. While the initial cost may be prohibitive to some, the durability of tile roofs means they pay for themselves over time.

Because tiles are very heavy, roof frames must be equipped to handle the weight. Homeowners who are replacing shingles with tiles must consult a professional to determine if the structure of their roof needs modifications. Concrete tiles are the lightest weight tiles and may be the best choice.

Finally, Ohio residents considering a tile roof should know that despite the durability of tiles, they can break more easily than other types of roofing if something heavy falls on them. Repairing broken roof tiles can be an expensive process, making tile roofs impractical for homes surrounded by tall trees or other hazards that may fall and impact the roof.

Tile roofs can be a transformative and durable upgrade to an Ohio home. While the upfront costs may seem high, the long-term benefits of tile are worth the investment. Kaizen Contracting & Roofing has the experience and knowledge to help you through the tile roofing process. More importantly, we invite you to contact us today to address your questions and share with you our process.