A well-crafted roof not only adds to the charm of a home but also protects it from the wrath of Mother Nature. If you want to replace your old and damaged roof with a sturdy and beautiful tile roof, you should explore your best options. Do you know how many types of roof tiles are out there that offer maximum protection?
At Miller Roofing and Renovations, we aim to help our community by sharing our roofing knowledge and expertise. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best types of roof tiles for homes and residential buildings based on material and design. We’ll also share some crucial tips for homeowners on how to select the best roofing tiles for their homes.
Classic Tile Roofing Styles For an Upscale Look
Let’s explore the history and characteristics of the most famous roof tile designs. This will help you decide which shape of tiles you want on your roof.
Barrel-Style Roofing Tiles
The history of true barrel roof tiles can be traced back to ancient Rome, where they were commonly used as a roofing material. Many of the ancient structures in Rome still have their original barrel tiles intact today. During the Middle Ages, the popularity of this type of roof tile spread throughout Europe, where it was used on many of the Gothic cathedrals that still stand today.
One of the benefits of barrel-style tiles is their ability to shed water effectively. The round profile of the tiles sheds water better than most roof designs. Additionally, the interlocking system, similar to the French and Roman tiles, creates strong and durable seams that will not succumb to hail and wind storms.
Here are some of the most popular variations of barrel-style roofing tiles:
Spanish S-Wave Tiles
Spanish roof tiles with an S-shape are also known as S-curved or S-wave tiles. Their distinctive curve creates a ripple-like pattern across the roof. These tiles are typically made from terracotta clay and are popular in Mediterranean and Spanish colonial-style homes.
The history of S-shape tiles can be traced back to Spain in the 17th century. They quickly became popular throughout Europe and the United States due to their durability and unique aesthetic. Today, this type of roof tile remains a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of Mediterranean charm to their homes.
Mission Tiles: French and Roman
Mission-style roofing tiles are known for their durability and ability to withstand high winds and heavy rain. Originating in Europe in the early 19th century, these tiles are marked by their cylindrical shape and overlapping installation style. There are several popular variants of this style, including the classic Roman tile, which has a smooth, rounded shape, and the French tile, which features a distinctive crease in the middle.
Mission-style roofing tiles were popularized in the U.S. throughout California during the 1920s and 1930s. They were used in the construction of Spanish Revival-style homes at that time. Today, Mission tiles remain a popular choice for homeowners who want to achieve classic Roman and European-looking architecture.
After shortlisting a design, it’s time to pick a material for your roof tiles. There are different types of roof tiles based on their composition, and it’s crucial to select the one that can handle your area’s fierce weather for many years.
Sturdy and Durable Tile Roofing Materials
All types of roofing materials have evolved over the centuries, with a wide range of options now available to homeowners. Each type of roof tile boasts its own unique benefits and drawbacks, making the selection process a critical aspect of any building project.
Clay Tiles
Clay roof tiles, with their natural, baked clay construction, are a popular choice for homeowners who prioritize longevity and durability. These tiles can withstand a variety of environmental factors, including fire, insects, and rot. The tiles are made of terracotta clay or ceramic, offering plenty of warm and vibrant shades.
Slate Tiles
Slate roof tiles are crafted from natural stone quarried from deep within the earth and are prized for their classic and timeless appearance. Their durability is almost legendary, with some slate tiles able to last over a century with proper care. Slate roof tiles are highly resistant to moisture, fire, insects, and rot, making them the best type of roof tiles for mild to hail-prone climates.
Metal Tiles
In recent years, metal roof tiles have become increasingly popular, thanks to their modern appearance, energy efficiency, and durability. Constructed from lightweight materials such as aluminum or copper, metal roof tiles are highly resistant to wind, fire, and hail damage. Additionally, it is relatively easy to customize metal tiles to fit your personal design requirements and house architecture.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete roof tiles are an affordable and cost-effective choice that can be molded into a wide range of shapes and sizes. Concrete tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, a durable choice for areas with high humidity and extreme weather conditions. This type of roof tile is rapidly growing popular throughout the country due to its multiple benefits and affordable price. However, they are heavier than all other materials, so you may need a more robust roof structure and underlayment before installing concrete tiles.
Solar Roof Tiles
Solar roofing tiles and shingles are relatively new and innovative, allowing homeowners to generate renewable energy. These are the best types of roof tiles for homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills or lower their carbon footprint. These tiles are generally made of architectural-grade steel with sturdy glass and are infused with photovoltaic cells to capture and generate solar energy. While solar tiles are typically more expensive than other roofing options, they can offer significant long-term savings on energy bills.
Composite Tiles
Composite roof tiles are also a new addition to the roofing industry, with a durable and cost-effective approach to traditional roofing styles. Made from a combination of materials, including recycled plastics, rubber, and other additives, composite roof tiles are designed to mimic the appearance of natural roofing materials such as slate, wood, and clay.
Composite tiles are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for both new construction and roof replacements. Additionally, some manufacturers offer composite tiles that are integrated with solar panels, providing homeowners with an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to generate renewable energy.
These modern roofing tiles cater to numerous aesthetic options, allowing homeowners to create a custom look for their homes. They are available in various colors, textures, and shapes, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect style for their home’s architecture and design.
If you are looking for a better roofing system, or a new type of tile roof for your residential property, choosing your desired material and design is the first step. But with so many options, it can be tricky to determine which one will offer maximum protection and curb appeal. So here are some tips to help you pick the right roofing tile:
Choosing The Best Type of Roof Tiles
After considering your local weather conditions and the architecture of your home, you should also plan out your budget for the project ahead of time, compare manufacturer warranties, and find a good tile roofing contractor for your roof replacement project.
Plan Your Budget
The cost of a tile roof will vary depending on the material and style you choose. It’s essential to establish a budget before you start a project to ensure that you don’t overspend. Be sure to consider the cost of the roofing materials, installation, and any additional fees or expenses that may arise during the process, for example, the repair of old roofing materials.
Manufacturer Warranty
When choosing a tile roof, it’s helpful to compare the warranties offered by different manufacturers. Be sure to ask your contractor about the specific warranties available for the tile roofing system you choose. A strong warranty can help you understand how long your tile roof may last, which can give you peace of mind and help protect your investment.
Choosing the Right Tile Roofing Contractor
Finding a qualified and skilled roofing team is critical when getting a new tile roof. Be sure to choose a tile roofing contractor with adequate experience and a good reputation in the community. Ask for references and check online reviews to get a sense of their track record. Expert professionals can help you select the right materials, provide a detailed estimate, and ensure that your roof is installed correctly and meets all local building codes.
If you are exploring different types of tile roofs for your home in Tennessee, we can provide professional guidance and expert installation service.
Free Consultation and Estimate on Tile Roofing
When you choose Miller Roofing and Renovations, you can trust that you are working with a team that genuinely cares about your satisfaction and the safety of your home. We understand that getting a new tile roof can be a significant investment, which is why we offer free consultations and estimates to help you make an informed decision. Our team will work closely with you to understand your unique needs and preferences, and we’ll provide expert guidance every step of the way to ensure that you get the best possible results.
Call us at (901) 457-9405 for a free consultation and estimate on our tile roof installation services in Memphis or the surrounding areas in Tennessee.
