All Types of Roof Tiles | Detailed Buying Guide

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular and widely used type of roof tiles. They are known for their affordability, versatility, and ease of installation.

Asphalt shingles are composed of fiberglass or organic mat that is coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. This composition provides durability and weather resistance.

Average Price:

The cost of asphalt shingles can vary depending on factors such as the brand, quality, and specific features. Asphalt shingles range from $0.80 to $2 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Asphalt shingles' installation costs typically range from $2.50 to $5 per square foot. This cost includes the labor charges for the installation process.

Common Available Colors:

Common colors include black, gray, brown, red, green, and blue.

Benefits of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles offer numerous benefits, including affordability, durability, and a wide range of color options. They are also relatively low-maintenance and can provide good protection against weather elements. These factors contribute to their popularity among homeowners and contractors alike.

Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete tiles are a durable and popular choice for roofing. They offer excellent longevity and a variety of design options.

Concrete roof tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water.

Each concrete tile is molded into various shapes, such as flat, curved, or interlocking, to create an attractive, durable roofing material.

Average Price:

The cost of concrete flat tiles can vary depending on factors such as style, thickness, and manufacturer. Concrete roofs range from $4 to $10 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

The installation cost of concrete roof tiles is typically higher than other roofing materials due to their weight and specialized installation requirements. The installation costs range from $7 to $12 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Concrete flat roof tiles are available in a wide range of colors, including earth tones, terracotta, gray, and white. Some manufacturers also offer customization options to match specific design preferences.

Benefits of Concrete Tiles

Flat roofs offer several advantages, including durability, fire resistance, and energy efficiency. A flat roof is known for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and can have a lifespan of 50 years or more. Additionally, concrete tile can provide good insulation properties, contributing to energy savings. The aesthetic appeal and versatility of square clay tiles make them popular for residential and commercial roofing projects.

Clay Roof Tiles

Clay tiles are renowned for their classic and timeless appeal. They offer a unique and elegant look to roofs.

Clay roof tiles are made from natural clay that is shaped and fired in high-temperature kilns. They come in various profiles, including flat, curved, or S-shaped, adding character to the roof's aesthetics.

Average Price:

The cost of clay roof tiles can vary depending on factors such as the style, manufacturer, and region. On average, clay roof tiles range from $10 to $30 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing clay roof tiles requires skilled craftsmanship due to their fragility and weight. As a result, the installation costs of clay roofing tend to be higher. On average, clay tile installation costs range from $12 to $20 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Clay roof tiles are typically available in earth tones, such as terracotta clay tile, red clay roof tile, brown clay roof tile, and tan clay roof tile. These colors enhance the natural appeal and beauty of clay tiles.

Benefits of Clay Tiles

Clay tiles offer exceptional durability and longevity, often lasting over 100 years with proper maintenance. They are resistant to fire, insects, and rot. Additionally, clay tiles provide natural insulation, helping to keep homes cooler in hot climates.

Clay roofs have a distinctive appearance and the ability to blend seamlessly with various architectural styles, making clay tile a sought-after roofing choice.

Slate Roof Tiles

Slate roof tiles are renowned for their natural beauty and elegance. They offer a luxurious and sophisticated look to roofs. Here are some key details about slate tiles:

Slate roof tiles are made from natural stone that is split into thin, flat pieces. They are available in various sizes and thicknesses, giving roofs a distinctive, textured appearance.

Average Price:

The cost of slate roofing can vary significantly depending on factors such as the quality, color, and source of the slate. On average, slate tiles range from $15 to $30 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Slate tile roofs require expertise due to their heavy weight and specific installation techniques. As a result, slate tile installation cost tends to be higher. On average, the installation cost ranges from $20 to $40 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Slate roof tiles come in a range of colors, including black, gray, green, purple, and red. These natural colors add depth and character to roofs.

Benefits of Slate Tiles

Slate tile roofs are highly regarded for their exceptional durability and longevity, often lasting over a century. The slate roof is fire-resistant, waterproof, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Additionally, a slate roof provides excellent insulation properties and is environmentally friendly as it is natural and recyclable.

The timeless beauty and unique textures of natural stone tiles make the slate roof a favored choice for high-end residential and historic buildings.

Metal Roof Tiles

Metal roof tiles offer a modern and sleek aesthetic to roofs, combining durability with contemporary design. Here are some key details about metal tiles:

Metal roof tiles are typically made from steel or aluminum and are available in various shapes and profiles, including shingles, panels, and interlocking designs. They can be coated with finishes such as paint or granules to enhance their appearance and durability.

Average Price:

The cost of metal roof tiles can vary depending on factors such as the type of metal, thickness, finish, and design. Metal roofing ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing metal roof tiles is often easier and quicker than other roofing materials, which can help lower installation costs. The installation costs range from $7 to $12 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Metal roofs come in a wide array of colors, including shades of gray, black, brown, red, blue, and green. Additionally, they can be customized to match specific color preferences.

Benefits of Metal Tiles

Metal roofing offers excellent durability, as they are resistant to fire, rot, insects, and mildew. They have a long lifespan and can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and high winds.

Metal roofs are lightweight, making them suitable for a wide range of roof structures. They are also energy-efficient, reflecting solar heat and reducing cooling costs. The sleek and contemporary appearance of metal roofing adds a modern touch to both residential and commercial buildings.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes provide a natural and rustic look to roofs, adding warmth and charm. Here are some key details about wood shingles and shakes:

Wood shingles are machine-cut and have a smooth and uniform appearance. Wood shakes, on the other hand, are hand-split, giving them a more textured and rustic look. They are typically made from cedar or redwood, known for their durability and resistance to decay.

Average Price:

The cost of wood shingles and shakes can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood, quality, thickness, and region. On average, wood shingles and shakes range from $6 to $12 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing wood shingles and shakes requires skilled craftsmanship and may involve additional steps such as proper ventilation and treatment. This can affect the installation cost, typically from $9 to $15 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Wood shingles and shakes naturally come in earth tones, such as brown, tan, and gray. Over time, they weather to a beautiful silver-gray patina.

Benefits of Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes offer natural insulation, providing a cozy and energy-efficient environment. They are also lightweight, making them suitable for various roof structures.

Wood is a sustainable and renewable material, adding to its appeal for environmentally conscious homeowners.

It's important to note that regular maintenance, such as periodic cleaning, staining, and treating, is necessary to ensure their longevity and resistance to moisture and pests. Wood shingles and shakes are an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional and timeless roofing option.

Synthetic Cedar Roof Tiles

Synthetic cedar tiles are manufactured roofing materials that mimic the appearance of natural materials while offering enhanced durability and lower maintenance.

Synthetic cedar roof tiles are typically made from a combination of materials such as rubber, plastic, and polymers. They are designed to replicate the look of other roofing materials like slate, wood, or clay, providing a variety of styles and finishes.

Average Price:

The cost of synthetic tiles can vary depending on factors such as the brand, quality, and style. Synthetic tiles range from $4 to $10 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing synthetic tiles is generally easier and quicker than natural materials, which can help reduce installation costs. The installation costs range from $6 to $12 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Synthetic cedar roof tiles are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes. They can be manufactured to resemble various natural materials or offer vibrant and unique color options.

Benefits of Synthetic Tiles

Synthetic cedar roof tiles offer several advantages, including their lightweight nature, durability, and resistance to harsh weather conditions. They are often more affordable than natural materials, making them a cost-effective choice.

Additionally, synthetic tiles are low-maintenance, as they do not require regular treatments or repairs. They also provide good insulation properties, contributing to energy efficiency. Synthetic tiles are a versatile option for those seeking the aesthetic appeal of natural materials with added durability and convenience.

Solar Roof Tiles

Solar roof tiles, also known as solar shingles or photovoltaic (PV) tiles, combine the functionality of solar panels with the appearance of traditional roof tiles. They offer a sustainable and energy-efficient roofing solution. Here are some key details about solar roofing tiles:

Solar roof tiles are specially designed roof tiles that incorporate photovoltaic cells, allowing them to generate electricity from sunlight. They are typically made from materials like crystalline silicon or thin-film solar cells, which are integrated into the tile's surface.

Average Price:

The cost of solar roofing can vary depending on factors such as the brand, quality, capacity, and installation requirements. On average, it ranges from $20 to $40 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing solar roofing requires specialized expertise and coordination with electrical systems, which can increase the installation cost. On average, the installation cost ranges from $25 to $45 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Solar roof tiles come in various colors, including black, gray, and blue, to blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetics of the roof.

Benefits of Solar Tiles

Solar tiles offer numerous benefits, including the generation of clean and renewable energy, potential savings on electricity bills, and a reduced carbon footprint. They are designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and capable of withstanding normal foot traffic.

A solar tile can be integrated into both new construction and existing roofs, providing a seamless and visually appealing appearance.

While the initial cost of solar tiles may be higher compared to traditional roofing materials, the long-term energy savings and environmental advantages make them an attractive option for homeowners looking to embrace sustainable practices.

Composite Roof Tiles

Composite roof tiles, also known as synthetic or composite roofing, are a blend of different materials to create a durable and versatile roofing solution.

They offer the appearance of natural materials while providing enhanced durability and resistance to weathering. Here are some key details about composite tiles:

Composite roof tiles are typically made from a mixture of materials such as recycled plastics, rubber, and wood fibers. These materials are combined to create a roofing product that replicates the look of natural materials like slate, wood, or clay.

Average Price:

The cost of composite roof tiles can vary depending on factors such as brand, quality, and style. On average, composite tiles range from $5 to $12 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

Installing composite roof tiles is generally easier and quicker compared to natural materials, which can help reduce installation costs. On average, the installation cost ranges from $7 to $15 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Composite tiles come in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose from various options to suit their aesthetic preferences.

Benefits of Composite Tiles

Composite material tiles offer several advantages, including their durability, resistance to weathering, and low maintenance requirements. They are typically lighter in weight than natural materials, making them easier to handle during installation.

A composite tile is also often more affordable than natural materials while providing comparable aesthetics. Additionally, composite tiles are eco-friendly as they are often made from recycled materials, contributing to sustainability efforts. They are a practical and visually appealing roofing option for those looking for the beauty of natural materials with added durability and affordability.

Bituminous Roof Tiles

Bituminous tiles, also known as bitumen roof tiles or asphalt roof tiles, are a cost-effective and durable roofing option. They are widely used for both residential and commercial buildings. Here are some key details about bituminous tiles:

Bituminous tiles are made from a base material of fiberglass or organic mat, which is saturated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules. This composition provides strength, weather resistance, and durability.

Average Price:

The cost of bituminous tiles can vary depending on factors such as the brand, quality, and specific features. On average, bituminous tiles range from $1 to $4 per square foot.

Average Installation Cost:

The installation cost of bituminous tiles is relatively affordable compared to other roofing materials. On average, the installation cost ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot.

Common Available Colors:

Bituminous tiles come in a variety of colors, including shades of black, brown, gray, and red. Homeowners can choose colors that complement their desired aesthetic.

Benefits of Bituminous Tiles

Bituminous tiles offer several advantages, including their affordability, ease of installation, and resistance to UV rays and weathering. They provide reliable protection against water infiltration and can withstand moderate to severe weather conditions. Bituminous tiles are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring periodic inspections and occasional repairs. Their versatility and cost-effectiveness make them a popular choice for a wide range of roofing projects.

Ceramic Roof Tiles

Ceramic roof tiles, also known as clay roof tiles, are roofing materials made from natural clay that has been molded and fired at high temperatures. They have been used for centuries and are known for their durability, longevity, and classic appearance.

Ceramic roof tiles provide a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally friendly roofing solution. They offer timeless beauty, excellent weather resistance, and long-lasting performance. Their classic appearance makes them a popular choice for a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary.

Roof Tile Installation Factors

When it comes to installing roof tiles, several factors need to be taken into consideration to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.

Here are some important factors that can impact the tile installation process:

Roof Structure

Underlayment

Flashings

Tile Layout and Pattern

Fasteners Anchoring

Installation Technique

Climate and Environmental Factors

Contractor Expertise

Considering these factors during the tile installation process can help ensure a well-executed and durable roof that provides long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal. It is recommended to consult with roofing professionals and follow manufacturer guidelines to achieve the best results.