If you’re contemplating investing in roof tiles for your home or an extension, it is important to educate yourself on which materials are the best. In this article, we explore the difference between concrete and clay roof tiles in order to help you make an informed decision.

How popular are roof tiles?

Roof tiles are among the oldest roofing materials used in the world. Going as far back as five thousand years, we can see why roof tiles are a popular roofing material for roof replacements. The first modern concrete roof tiles were manufactured in Europe in 1844. In Australia, manufacturing started in the 1920’s.

Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete roof tiles are made from a mixture of water, cement and sand. The mixture is then moulded under high pressure and extreme heat. Afterwards, the surface of the concrete roof tile may be finished with paint like material.

If you happen to look throughout your neighbourhood, you’ll notice that concrete roof tiles remain one of the most popular roofing materials for South Australian homeowners. In fact, if you’re looking to recreate the sophisticated appearance of expensive terracotta tiles, (on a budget) there is simply no better option.

Despite the drawbacks of tiled roofs, concrete roof tiles come in a variety of colours, profiles and shapes that may complement and contrast your home’s aesthetics. The surface of concrete roof tiles can be smooth or textured, and tile edges may be uniform or ragged. Better yet, your roof will easily withstand fire, wind, and hail when properly installed by a reputable roofing company.

Plus, with the advent of new production techniques, you can pick between a traditional look and something more modern. If cost is a major consideration, then you’ll also be pleased to learn that concrete tiles are more cost effective to install versus clay roofing tiles.

Clay Roof Tiles

By now you’re probably convinced that concrete roof tiles are the best thing since sliced bread. But we wouldn’t want you stop reading without knowing the benefits and limitations of clay roof tiles.

Clay roofing tiles are manufactured by baking moulded clay. The density of your roofing tiles will depend on two factors:

(1) the temperature at which the roof tiles are heated

(2) the length of time they are heated.

Generally, clay tiles will come in a range of colours such as brown, yellow, orange and white. The most common clay roof tile colour is Terra-Cotta. One alternative to natural earthy tones is to add enamels to the manufacturing process. This allows you to make any colour of roof tile(s) and is known as ceramic.

By spraying enamel over the tile before baking it at high temperatures, you can bind a colour of choice which prevents fading or peeling. As a result of ceramic binding in the kiln, you may choose from a larger variety of colours, profiles, styles and finishes.

An additional benefit of clay tiles is that they are manufactured from natural earth materials which allows for environmentally friendly recycling. However, the largest draw back for homeowners of clay roof tiles is cost. Lastly, it’s important to remember that unlike concrete roofing tiles, clay tiles will be more fragile and likely to shatter if roof access is required.

Price of roof replacement

We’ve been replacing roofs for over 98 years in South Australia and know that roof replacements are often times an unexpected expense, and a necessity. It’s a big ask to build a new roof for most families. If you’re looking to replace your roof, all it takes is as little $75 per week to get started. Our workmanship and materials are guaranteed, and we always get it right the first time. Get a free, no obligation roof replacement quote today.

If you’re reading this right now, you may be wondering whether a tiled roof is more expensive, and are likely comparing different materials in order to make an informed decision. The short answers to your question is that a tiled roof will cost more over time to maintain, and comes at a cost you may not expect.

Tiled Roofing Adds Weight to Your Roof Structure

Weight is always an important consideration when undertaking roof replacements in Adelaide. Generally, concrete roof tiles weigh almost twice as much as clay roof tiles. In some cases up to 60kg per square meter. If you’re building a particularly large roof space, the combined weight of many roof tiles places immense weight on your support structure and requires additional structural reinforcement. As a result of additional labour and materials, the cost of your roof replacement increases. That is why if you’re looking for a lightweight roofing material, Colorbond roofing is the best choice coming in at 5kg per square meter.  

Moisture Absorption

When it comes to roofing in Adelaide, water and moisture is not your friend. In particular, if your roof is tree shaded and facing north, moss will quickly spread and fill in gaps between shingles and tiles. Over time, this will heave up shingles and allow rainwater and moisture to penetrate and cause decay. In order to make an informed decision you should keep the following figures in mind:

• Concrete roof tiles have a water absorption rate of 10% to 14%
• Clay roof tiles have a water absorption rate of 4% – 6%

Although it may seem obvious to choose clay tiles instead (given lower weight and water absorption) – they are more expensive to manufacture and prone to a host of issues below. If you’re looking for a maintenance free roof replacement, a Colorbond roof is the right choice.

Tiled Roofing May Affect Your Solar Panels

A tiled roof can host solar panels; however radiant heat may affect the performance of the panels. Not many people know this, but concrete and clay roof tiles absorb heat and radiate it outward when the temperature drops at night. Given the intensity of summer in South Australia, this is an important and often overlooked consideration.

In contrast, metal roofing allows heat to quickly pass through and may heat up the space inside the ceiling quicker but also dissipate quicker. Generally, solar panels will be most effective under certain temperatures, and given the heat absorption quality of tiles, your panels would stay warmer for a longer period of time. As a result of extended heat radiation, the performance of your panels may be affected, which takes detracts from the cost and energy saving value of your solar system.

Get a roof replacement quote

Here at Roof & Render SA we always we believe in getting it right the first time. That is why we recommend installing a metal roof for ultimate dependability, value and aesthetic appeal. With 98 years in the trade, we offer unmatched expertise that is sure to leave extremely satisfied with your roof replacement. all it takes is as little $75 per week to get started.

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