When Are Tile Roofs Worth the Cost?
Average Cost of a Tile Roof
The average cost of a tile roof for an average-sized home is $24,000. On the low end, they can cost around $15,000, while on the high end, they can cost upwards of $30,000. The type of tile roof will also impact the cost. For example, clay tiles will generally cost less than slate tiles; meanwhile, concrete and terracotta tiles are in the same price range as clay.
When compared to asphalt roofs, tile roofs are significantly more expensive. Whereas a tile roof may cost anywhere from $4-$16 per square foot (or $400-$1600 per square), asphalt roofing typically costs $1-$2 per square foot (or $90 per square).
Why Are Tile Roofs More Expensive?
We are often asked why tile roofs cost as much as they do. The answer is fairly straightforward: it is a combination of material costs and labor. Tile roofing has also been impacted by both recent supply chain issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the lingering effects of the 2008 recession in which many tile manufacturers in the US went out of business. Though both of these events have caused an increase in the cost of materials, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t consider a tile roof.
The Benefits of a Tile Roof
The number one reason it is worth considering a tile roof is longevity. Compared to all other roofing materials, tile roofing lasts the longest. For example, the average asphalt roof will last anywhere from 10-20 years. Meanwhile, a well-maintained tile roof will last for 50 years or more. In fact, many tiles roofs in Europe are centuries old!
Another great benefit to tile roofs is that they are pest-resistant. In particular, tile roofs are termite and other wood-boring insect resistant. Termites are found across the US and are becoming a major concern in Arizona. With a tile roof, your home is significantly more protected from termites than if you had a wood shingle roof.
Tile roofing is also weather-resistant and stands up well to the high temperatures of Arizona summers. Clay and slate roofing tiles do not degrade nearly as quickly as other materials, especially asphalt. They also stand up well to the sun’s UV rays. This is important as Arizona sees the highest number of days of any state in the US.
What About Repairing Tiles Roofs
As long as you keep your new tile roof well-maintained, you will never need to replace it. However, this does not mean that you will not need to make the occasional repair. Over time, tiles can crack, and your roof’s underlayment will eventually need to be replaced. Repairing a tile roof can be trickier than repairing an asphalt shingle roof, but as long as you work with a licensed roofer, like Lyons Roofing, you do not have to worry.
So, Are Tile Roofs Really Worth the Cost?
The answer to this question will vary depending on your goals. If you are not planning on staying in your home long, or if a tile roof would stretch your budget to an uncomfortable place, it may not be worth it to you. However, if you like the look of tile roofs, you plan on being in your home a long time, and you are looking for something that is both durable and environmentally friendly, a tile roof may be the way to go.
Things to consider when looking at installing a tile roof include:
- Does a tile roof match the aesthetic of your home?
- Can your current roofing structure handle the added weight of a tile roof?
- Do you have the budget for a tile roof?
- Do you have to adhere to specific HOA guidelines?
Before selecting the type of roof you want to purchase, you should speak with our roofing specialists. We will inspect your current roofing system, go over your options, and help you select the type of roof that meets your needs and your budget.
Want to know more about tile roofs? Contact Lyons Roofing today.
