If you’re considering a roofing project, there are a few different options when it comes to the roof tiles. Before you start planning sizes, schemes and patterns, there’s one essential choice to be made – namely, concrete or clay.

Roof tiles are an essential feature of any home. They keep the weather out, provide a strong and safe shelter, and – if installed by a professional – will look great too. With that in mind, they’re something you need to put plenty of thought into.

Concrete and clay are the two most common materials used for roof tiling. Both have their benefits and even some drawbacks, so it’s important to be fully informed before you make the choice. Read on as we look at how concrete and clay roof tiles differ, and which is best for you.

The benefits of both concrete and clay tiles

First of all, let’s look at why people choose concrete and clay roof tiles. Both are highly durable, long lasting and low maintenance. They’re also a great option to keep your home safe, as long as you’re using reputable suppliers and installers. Finally, both options provide superb curb appeal. Concrete and clay tiles look great – which is why so many people opt for them. So, how do they differ?

Cost

The first thing you will notice when comparing the two materials is that clay tiles cost that little bit more. You can usually expect to pay a premium of around 25% for clay tiles compared to concrete. Why? Quite simply, clay tiles last longer.

Durability

While clay roof tiles last as long as 100 years, concrete tiles usually need replacing after around 50. Essentially, it’s a choice of whether you want to invest more now, or you’re willing to pay again further down the line. That said, there are some other key areas that set the two materials apart:

Weight

Concrete tiles are weigh more than clay tiles – usually around 30 – 40% more, in fact. Because of this, they are not suitable for some roof structures, making clay tiles more versatile in this sense.

Water

Concrete tiles absorb around twice the amount, meaning it’s more susceptible to mildew growth – as well as increased weight and consequent pressure on a home’s structure.

Maintenance

Understandably, because of their heavier weight and higher susceptibility to mildew, concrete tiles require more maintenance than clay tiles. In fact, clay tiled roofs are essentially maintenance free in most cases.

Appearance

Both clay and concrete tiles look great when they’re first installed. However, another way clay beats concrete is its longevity. Clay tiles are baked at super-high temperatures to create a long-lasting finish. In contrast, the colour of concrete tiles can fade over time.

 

The choice is yours

As well as choosing the right material for your roof, it’s important to get the right contractors for the job. DPR Roofing has over 25 years’ experience in the roofing industry, providing a wide variety of roofing repairs and installations. If you’re looking for roofing specialists you can trust – get in touch with our team in Leeds, Huddersfield, Barnsley, Pontefract and Wakefield.