When installing a new roof or re-covering an old roof, you will need to choose tile roofing materials to ensure protection from the weather and general debris. Choosing the best tile roofing materials will ensure the roof lasts a long time and is aesthetically pleasing, thereby improving the overall value of the home. Before you purchase materials to tile your roof, you will first need to consider your geographic location, the slope of your roof, the budget for the project, and the aesthetic that you would like to see on your home.
First and foremost, you will need to ensure the weight of the tile roofing materials you choose can be supported by the roof structure. This may require a bit of skill and knowledge, and it might be wise to consult a professional contractor who can help you make the decision. The slope of the roof will also have an effect on which tile roofing materials will be best; generally, the steeper the slope, the more options you will have for tile roofing materials. Roofs with shallower slopes are more likely to collect water, which means certain tile materials will not be a good choice.
Asphalt tile is perhaps the most common type of roofing material. It is an all-purpose tile that can be used on most roofs, and it is one of the less expensive options for tiling an entire roof. Such tiles are usually black, though some are shades of brown as well. Asphalt tiles can help retain heat in the home as well, though this is a secondary purpose. If cost is an issue, or if the slope of the roof is not exceptionally steep, tile is the best option.
Cedar shingles are exceptionally beautiful and naturally resistant to water damage and bug infestation. Such tile roofing materials will be more expensive than asphalt, but cedar shingles will also be more durable and in some cases longer lasting. The downside to cedar can be the changing tone of the wood; the more exposure it gets to direct sunlight, the more likely the color is to fade. Wood shingles will also need some maintenance to ensure rot is not occurring.
Clay shingles are very durable and long-lasting, and they will add a unique look and aesthetic appeal to the right home. The drawback to this material, however, is the weight of the shingles. The roof will need to be built in such a way that the clay can be supported adequately.
