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Spanish Tile Roofs
Spanish tile roofs are quite popular in the American southwest, as well as in other pockets throughout the country. These tiles offer a timeless style that is beautiful and graceful, durable and can complement a sloped pitch with ease. Learn more about these tiles, the costs to have them installed and some of the main pros and cons that they offer.
Spanish Tile Roof Options
Ceramic or Clay Tiles
Ceramic and clay tiles are some of the more popular choices due to their originality. These materials offer a richness and texture that will enhance the home. These materials have a long lasting ability, due to modern advances in the use of these materials. There are a variety of choices when choosing these tiles based on feel and overall look.
Terra Cotta Tiles
Terra Cotta tiles are part of the ceramic and clay options available. This is the tile that is often thought of when a Spanish tile roof is mentioned. These tiles are timeless in their overall design and beauty. The Terra Cotta tiles are smooth and come in a choice of patterns, shapes and colors. The advantage is that these are a cost effective option, but at the same time they are not always the strongest solution and are prone to chipping and breaking under stress.
Concrete Tiles
The concrete roof tiles available are designed to look like clay tiles. They are a very strong material, which can be incorporated into a variety of architectural designs. This material can handle extreme hail and rain and is also fire resistant. It is not the best choice in colder climates and the tiles crack under cold. These tiles are almost maintenance free, which is another benefit when choosing concrete tiles.
Metal Tiles
Metal tiles are manufactured to look like a Spanish roof tile. Metal is a very durable material with a long life span. It also has exceptionally good energy saving properties as the metal reflects the heat, helping keep the property cool during the heat of summer. Metal tiles are unique and can complement the home with their overall appearance. Another benefit of metal tiles is they are lightweight, making them easier to install and they don't put any strain on the structure of the property. These are a more expensive option. Aluminum, copper and galvanized steel are often the preferred choice for homeowners choosing metal tiles to finish their roofing project.
Spanish Roof Tile Costs
Entry to Middle Range - $6 - $8.75 per square foot. The price including the tiles and the labor can cost in the region of $650 to $875 per square.
Middle to Higher Range - $8.75 - $11 per square foot. This price is including labor and tiles and will cost around $875 and $1,100 per square.
Spanish Tile Roof Benefits
Durable
Because the Spanish tile roof materials are incombustible, they have a low absorption rate and therefore are long lasting and durable. These tiles can withstand most weather conditions and don't chip or break easily. When choosing a Spanish tile roof, it should come with a twenty year warranty covering labor and replacement costs, along with a seventy five year warranty, which will be limited.
Unique
A Spanish tile roof is very unique when it comes to feel and look. This type of roofing material offers a timeless elegance which is stylish and will never date.
Maintenance
Most of the Spanish tile roof materials require very little, if any maintenance over the years. Now and then checking the roof for damage is needed, but other than that there is no process which needs to be followed on a regular basis. If any pieces are missing or cracks are noticed, a contractor should be contacted immediately to carry out the repairs.
Disadvantages
Not Suitable for Flat Roofs
The Spanish tile roof is not the ideal choice when it comes to flat or low sloped roofs. There is no rule to say they cannot be used, but a good waterproof membrane will be required. This membrane isn't needed when the installation is taking place on a sloped roof.
Don't Do Well In Colder Climates
Because the materials used when making Spanish tiles can freeze, they are not suitable for colder climates. When the tiles become cold they are prone to cracks and chips.