Clay roof tiles have been in use since antiquity, and they’re still one of the most beautiful and durable roofing materials available. If you’re planning to invest in a new roof, it’s worth learning more about clay tile and its advantages.
How Clay Tile is Made
The first clay roof tiles were fashioned by hand from malleable materials found in local soils. Today’s tiles are created using a combination of natural clays with different desirable qualities. The clay is mixed with water, extruded and trimmed into various tile shapes, and put through a multi-stage kiln-firing process that takes 14-20 hours.
Advantages of Investing in a Clay Tile Roof
Clay tile is an exceptional roofing choice for Florida homes for some very good reasons:
- Incredible durability. A clay tile roof is so durable, it can easily outlast the structure it tops. It’s also resistant to fire, hail, moisture absorption, mold/algae growth and insects.
- Sustainability. Because it’s made from all-natural, chemically-inert materials and is fully recyclable at the end of its lifespan, clay tile is an eco-friendly choice.
- Energy savings. Clay is a natural insulator, and because air can easily circulate under the installed tiles, your home stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter so you conserve energy.
- Distinctive appeal. Clay tiles are available in a range of distinctive profiles, glossy and matte finishes, and an array of glorious, earthy color blends to suit any aesthetic and architectural style.
Considerations When Installing Clay Tile Roofing
Once you’ve decided that clay roof tile is the right material, it’s vital to keep these considerations in mind:
- Installed weight. Clay tiles weigh considerably more than other materials like asphalt shingles or metal, so it’s important to have your roof structure assessed to ensure it can support the extra weight.
- Upfront cost. A clay tile roof requires a bigger investment than most other options, but if you consider its expected lifespan of 50–100 years, its life-cycle cost is quite low in comparison.
- Installation quality. To ensure that your tile roof performs to its full potential, it’s critical that it’s installed by a skilled and experienced roofer. Your contractor should have a thorough knowledge of the latest building codes, proper tile attachment methods and best practices for installing underlayment and flashings.
Contact us at Mark Kaufman Roofing to learn more about the advantages of choosing clay tile roofing for your North Port-area home.
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