Clay or terracotta tile roofing, often referred to as Spanish tile, is one of the most desirable roofing materials on the market, especially in areas of the country with arid climates where Spanish tile is both functional and stylish. But is it right for your home? Here are the major pros and cons of Spanish tile roofing.
PROS
1. Long-Lasting
One of the major reasons that clay tile has been used as a roofing material for hundreds of years and continues to be one of the most desirable materials is because it's one of the most durable roofing options on the market. A properly installed clay tile roof can last up to 100 years or more if regularly maintained. Considering that the most popular roofing material in America—the asphalt composite shingle—lasts only about 40 years at a maximum even with the highest quality shingle, that 100 years seems pretty remarkable.
2. Energy Efficient
In addition to its longevity, clay tile is also extremely energy efficient. In fact, clay tile is one of the roofing materials that can be used to create what the Department calls a "cool roof" or a roof that has very high-performance energy efficiency and can stay as much as 50°F cooler than other darker and less efficient roofing materials. It reflects more sunlight and therefore absorbs less heat. To the homeowner, that means less money spent on cooling your home in the summer.
3. Curb Appeal
Clay tile isn't just functional—it's stylish too. A home with a beautifully maintained Spanish tile roof has huge curb appeal and that will increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell. A Spanish tile roof is a massively desirable characteristic that many homebuyers are looking for.
CONS
1. Heavy
One of the major drawbacks of clay tile is that it's heavy, meaning it weighs physically more than many other roofing options. Because of this, a roof with clay tile has to have the correct structural support to hold the weight of all that tile. If you're a homeowner who is hoping for clay tile as an option for your re-roofing project, you need to ensure that your roof can handle the extra weight or you risk damage or collapse.
2. Not Right For Every Climate
Because clay can crack when exposed to subzero temperatures, it's not an ideal material in areas with very cold winter climates. That's the reason Spanish tile is used more often in areas with warmer and drier climates.
