A tile roof could be the answer to your remodeling ideas for your outdoor home. Perhaps you are building a dream home from the bottom-up or you need a replacement roof on an existing home. You have your choice of what kind of material you want to use for your roof and are researching the positives and the drawbacks of each variety. Tile roofs have been a popular for centuries and are reminiscent of Spanish décor. They are sturdy, attractive and well within the price range of many homeowners. While there may be cheaper and easier materials, tile roofs are synonymous with classic home beauty and long life. Whether you are trying choose roof tile colors options like Maria Killam’s advice, or you’re trying to budget for a tile roof, take a look at these tips.

Should You Install a Tile Roof this Season?

Roof Tiles Cost should be a consideration: 

Many people don’t consider installing a roof made out of tile because they believe that tile is more expensive than other materials. While it is true that tile costs more than wood and asphalt, it is far more durable than either of them. Asphalt lasts longer than wood, but may have some unpleasant effects such as vulnerability to warping and cracking. There is a reason why many homebuilders offer longer warranties on roofs made of clay tile and concrete—they are more durable. Clay tile roofs withstand the test of time and some stand intact for centuries. Many feel justifiably that this makes clay tile a sound investment.

Roof Tile Colors and Aesthetics

When choosing tile you may have several questions and the Tile Roofing Institute can answer many of them concerning aesthetics, choosing colors and more. Clay tile roofs seem quaint to many people, and they bring to mind Spanish villages and sleepy European towns. People who are not partial to red and orange clay tiles may look for other materials, but they may not realize that tile roofs are available in an array of diverse designs and colors. The tiles can be in virtually any shape, whether round, square or diamond-shaped. Some of the designs have a chic modern style in dark colors while others have a colonial feel and mimic the appearance of wood. If you want a roof made of tile that reflects your unique décor and personal taste, consider custom made tiles. The cost may be higher, but you can enjoy a roof that is specially designed for you.

Roofing Materials and Insulation to Protect Against Weather

One widespread notion about a tile roof is that it doesn’t provide adequate protection against extreme weather conditions, will crack easily and does not insulate well. Since tiles allow for proper circulation of air, it can prevent ice from forming on a roof and can keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In addition, clay tile is not combustible and offers fire protection. While tiles that receive a hard pounding from hail in extreme conditions may crack, typically, even in the worst storms, less than ten percent of tiles are damaged. Tiles can be reproduced easily and replaced if there is damage.

Why Choose Tile?

Tile has been the preference of many homebuilders for good reasons. It is durable, attractive has a sturdy appearance. Tiles do not need to be orange, but can be any shape or color and can be custom made in specific designs. Tiles promote healthful circulation of air and can prevent fires. Tile is not the most expensive roofing material and is worth the investment, because it is long-lasting as the centuries-old roofs in Spanish houses demonstrate. The National Park Service has a great article on preserving and caring for your tile roof, as well as the history of tile roofs here. Clay roofs can be used on almost any type of home, large and small, and require some upkeep to ensure the tiles remain intact.

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