Want to install a new tile roof? It’s a great decision. Tile roofs are strong, sturdy, and they look fantastic. However, your work is just beginning as a homeowner. There are various types of tile roofs to choose from, and understanding the differences is crucial for making the right decision.
Two dominate the tile roof industry: clay and concrete roof tiles. Both are good options for your roof and at first glance, they may seem pretty similar. However, they have some distinct differences. In this blog post, we will talk about their differences so you can make the best decision for your home.
But first, let us cover the basics.
What Are Clay Tile and Concrete Tile Roofs?
Before jumping into comparisons, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what these roofing materials are.
Clay Tiles:
Clay tiles are made from—you guessed it—natural clay, which is shaped and baked in a kiln. They’ve been used for centuries (think of beautiful terracotta rooftops in Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture). They come in a variety of colors and styles, but their signature look is warm and earthy reds and oranges.
Concrete Tiles:
Many homeowners think traditional clay tile is the only option available. However, over the years, several advancements have been made in the tile roofing industry. Concrete tiles are a more modern invention. They’re made by mixing sand, cement, and water, then molding it into a tile shape. Once cured, they’re coated to mimic the look of clay or even other materials like slate or wood. Concrete tiles are known for their versatility and strength.
The Key Factors to Compare
When deciding between clay and concrete tiles, there are a few factors you’ll want to weigh. We’ll walk through each one of them below.
Durability and Overall Lifespan:
- Clay Tile Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
- Concrete Tile Roof Lifespan: 40 to 50 years
Both clay and concrete tiles are incredibly durable, which is one reason they’re so popular. But they do have some differences.
Clay Tiles:
Clay tiles are famous for their longevity. A well-maintained clay tile roof can last 50 to 100 years or even longer in some cases. Because they’re made from natural materials and fired at high temperatures, they’re incredibly resistant to weathering and won’t fade much over time. They’re also naturally resistant to rot, mold, and pests.
Concrete Tiles:
Concrete tiles are also highly durable but tend to have a slightly shorter lifespan than clay—around 40 to 50 years on average. That’s still very respectable! However, concrete can erode over time, especially in harsh weather conditions, and the color may fade more noticeably than clay.
To learn more, visit: How Long Do Tile Roofs Last? (2024)
Weight Considerations
One thing that distinguishes tile roofs from other popular roofing materials like asphalt shingles and metal roofs is that they are quite heavy. Both clay and concrete tiles weigh quite a bit, but usually, concrete tiles are heavier and thicker.
Clay Tiles:
Clay tiles typically weigh around 600 to 1,000 pounds per square (a “square” is equivalent to 100 square feet). While lighter than concrete, they’re still heavy enough that you’ll need to ensure your roof structure can handle the load. In some cases, reinforcing your roof might be necessary.
Concrete Tiles:
Concrete tiles are significantly heavier, weighing in at about 900 to 1,200 pounds per square. This extra weight contributes to their durability but also means your roof may need substantial structural reinforcement before installation. This can increase the cost and complexity of your project.
Cost:
Let’s talk dollars and cents. Both clay and concrete tiles are premium roofing materials, so they’re on the higher end of the cost spectrum compared to a material like asphalt shingles.
Clay Tile Roof Replacement Cost:
Clay tiles tend to be more expensive than concrete, both for the materials themselves and the installation. For a clay tile roof, expect to pay $8 to $22 per square foot. You’re paying for that long lifespan and classic look. Prices can vary depending on the style and manufacturer, but clay is generally the pricier option.
Concrete Tile Roof Replacement Cost:
Concrete tiles are more affordable upfront, around $7 to $9 per square foot, making them a good choice if you’re looking for a high-quality roof without breaking the bank. However, keep in mind that their shorter lifespan might mean higher long-term costs if you need a replacement sooner.
Appearance: Which Look Do You Prefer?
Apart from durability, aesthetics have become really important for homeowners. Curb appeal is one of tile roof’s biggest advantages. But you get a different appeal with clay and concrete tile roofs.
Clay Tiles:
Clay tiles have a natural, classic aesthetic. They’re often associated with Mediterranean, Spanish, or southwestern styles. However, due to its pleasing appeal, many homeowners choose clay tile roofs for their modern houses too. Their colors—like terracotta, red, and earthy tones—are rich and tend to hold up well over time. In recent years, new color options have also been introduced.
Concrete Tiles:
Concrete tiles are versatile when it comes to appearance. They can mimic clay tiles, slate, or even wood. Plus, they come in a wider range of colors and finishes. If you’re looking for flexibility in style, concrete might have the edge.
Maintenance Requirements:
No one wants a roof that’s a headache to maintain. Both clay and concrete tiles require less maintenance than many other materials, but there are some differences.
Clay Tiles:
Clay tiles are low-maintenance but not maintenance-free. You’ll need to check the tile roofs for cracks or chips occasionally, especially after severe weather. The good news? Clay is resistant to fading, mold, and mildew, so you won’t have to worry about regular cleaning.
Concrete Tiles:
Concrete tiles are also relatively low-maintenance, but they can require more frequent cleaning to prevent moss or mildew buildup, especially in humid climates. They’re also more prone to color fading over time, which might mean more upkeep if you want them looking like new.
Environmental Impact:
More homeowners are thinking about sustainability these days, and roofing materials are no exception.
Clay Tiles:
Clay is a natural material that’s recyclable and requires less energy to produce than concrete. Plus, its long lifespan means fewer replacements, which is better for the environment.
Concrete Tiles:
Concrete production has a larger carbon footprint because of the energy-intensive process used to make cement. While concrete tiles are also recyclable, their shorter lifespan might offset some of that benefit.
Overall Considerations:
In the section below, we have summarized these differences:
| Factor | Clay Tiles | Concrete Tiles |
| 1. Durability | 50 to 100+ years; very resistant to weathering | 40 to 50 years; durable but more prone to erosion |
| 2. Weight | 600 to 1,000 lbs per square; lighter | 900 to 1,200 lbs per square; significantly heavier |
| 3. Appearance | Natural, timeless look; rich, earthy colors | Versatile; can mimic clay, slate, or wood |
| 4. Cost | Higher upfront cost | More affordable upfront |
| 5. Maintenance | Low maintenance; occasional crack checks | Needs more cleaning due to moss/mildew buildup |
| 6. Environmental Impact | Natural, recyclable, energy-efficient production | Recyclable but larger carbon footprint |
Where To Buy Clay Roof Tiles?
Now that we know the differences between clay vs. concrete roof tiles, it is time to talk about another crucial thing that you need to consider as you plan your roof replacement. When selecting clay roof tiles, choosing reputable manufacturers ensures quality and durability. Here are some notable brands to consider:
Ludowici
Ludowici is a leading name in clay roofing tiles, offering over 40 different styles and a range of custom colors. Known for their exceptional quality, these tiles are made in the U.S. and come with a 75-year warranty.
MCA
MCA specializes in premium glazed and unglazed clay tiles that are highly resistant to weather and fading. Their products include the popular “S” tile and a variety of profiles that suit both traditional and contemporary designs.
Where To Buy Concrete Roof Tiles?
In the last section, we covered where to purchase clay roofing tiles. Here, we cover some of the top concrete roof tile manufacturers.
Eagle Roofing Products
Eagle Roofing Products is one of the most trusted manufacturers of concrete roof tiles in North America. They offer a wide variety of styles, colors, and profiles, including traditional barrel tiles and flat, modern designs.
Crown Roof Tiles
Crown Roof Tiles specializes in high-quality concrete tiles with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Their products include sleek, contemporary designs and classic profiles, all available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Also Read: 7 Best Tile Roof Manufacturers & Everything You Need To Know
Want Top-Notch Tile Roof Installation Services? We Are Here To Help!
Both clay and concrete tiles are a really good choice for your home. It all boils down to your personal preference. If you want natural, traditional charm for your home and you can go for the extra cost, clay roof tiles are perfect. If you want a more affordable option with great versatility in style, concrete roofing tiles are your best bet.
At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we install both types of tile roofs. Whether you want to get started with your roof replacement project or are still unsure, reach out to us at (918) 402-7167 and we will be happy to assist you.
