The Pros and Cons of a Clay Tile Roof

In recent years, the trend toward clay tile roofing (especially Ludowici tile) has been on the rise in Texas. There’s a lot to love about this unique, European look, and roofing contractors in McKinney get frequent inquiries about the pros and cons of this style of roof. However, tile roofing doesn’t work for every home or every homeowner. Knowing the ins and outs of the product is a must-do before making a commitment to install a clay tile roof. 

The experts at Shamrock Roofing are well-versed in all types of roofing materials, but they’re especially knowledgeable when it comes to clay tile roofs. Here’s everything you need to know about this roofing option to help you make a decision on whether it’s right for you.

What Is a Tile Roof?

While many homeowners have heard about tile roofing, many are unfamiliar with what the term actually means. In a nutshell, a clay tile roof is made of terra cotta clay. The tiles are often covered in a glaze that consists of silica, manganese, and aluminum oxide. This chemical mix increases the strength of the tile and also allows for customizable coloring. The style has been around for hundreds of years. 

Ludowici tile got its start in Italy in the 1800s. The Ludowici family brought it to the U.S. in 1888. Today this tile is still manufactured with the old-world processes and craftsmanship that made it so popular throughout Europe.

What are the Benefits?

Tile roofing has many benefits for homeowners. For one, a clay tile roof has unmatched durability. Clay easily withstands many weather conditions, so it’s suitable for almost any climate. As roofing contractors in McKinney know, tile roofs have the best ratings for wind, fire, and impact resistance. This is part of the appeal. It’s hard to go wrong with this durable option.

If you’re particular about the look and feel of your home, clay tiles come in many shapes, textures, and colors. This allows you to customize your roof to fit your unique style and vibe. Plus, if you’re an environmentally-conscious consumer, you’ll find comfort in the recyclable materials and supreme energy efficiency of clay.

Lastly, clay tiles require minimal maintenance. Forget power-washing and recoating. Homeowners with busy schedules love the low-maintenance benefit of a clay tile roof. 

What’s the Downside?

Despite the many benefits offered by a clay roofing system, not every home will support this product. Clay tiles are heavy, and roofing contractors in McKinney will only install them on homes with certain frame and slope requirements. Additionally, clay roofs are one of the most expensive products on the market. Not only are the physical tiles expensive (think $50-$100 per square), but special installation expertise means labor costs are also higher than average. Your best bet is to search for “roofers near me” for a roofer who offers a free roof inspection. From there, you can visit with a professional about whether your budget, style, and structural features support this route.

Need Help? Call Our Team at Shamrock Roofing!

Making the decision to go with tile can be overwhelming (especially when you’re considering a high-end brand like Ludowici tile). That said, our team at Shamrock Roofing and Construction has been in the business for decades and has experience installing almost every roofing type. When you choose us for your roofing needs, we’ll start with a free roof inspection and an inventory of your wants and needs as a homeowner. After that, you can sit back and relax. We’ll take it from there! Contact us today for more information or to schedule your free roof inspection.