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Thursday, January 30, 2025

The Different Types of Roof Tiles Explained

Image of a house with red tile roofing, a large arched window, and a chimney. The sky is clear blue. On the left, there is a graphic with a teal hexagonal pattern and a white hexagon containing the letters "ez.

Putting a roof over your head is only part of the story when you’re a homeowner. If your current roof is showing visible signs of aging or damage, you’ve discovered a pesky leak or a recent storm left its mark, it might be time for a roof replacement

Choosing the right roof tiles is a big decision—it affects your home’s style, durability, and long-term value. To help you make the best decision, here’s our definitive guide to the different types of roof tiles. Como on board and explore what each option brings and why it matters for your home.

What Are Roof Tiles? 

A roof tile is a weather-resistant building element designed to cover and protect the roof of a structure. Tiles are design for durability, so they’re commonly made from materials like clay, concrete, slate, metal, or synthetic composites. 

Roof tiles are the main component of a tile roofing system, which consist of overlapping tiles arranged in different ways and firmly fastened to a strong base or roof surface, crearting a watertight barrier. 

Roof tiles come in various shapes, styles, and finishes, offering both functional benefits—such as insulation and fire resistance—and aesthetic appeal to complement different architectural designs. Properties where tile roofs are installed include historic, commercial, and residential. 

Roof Tiles Popularity and Complexity

Popular due to their durability, energy efficience, and undisputable visual charm, roofing tile systems are popular in many locations across the country, including California and Florida, where homes of Mission, Spanish, and Mediterranean-style abound.

Homeowners interested in this roofing type should know that tile roofing is a demanding roofing type that requires and experienced contractor with expertise in handling and installing tiles of different materials and shapes.

Guide To The Types of Roof Tiles For Your Home 

Roof Tile Material Types

Slate Roof Tiles 

Person installing dark shingles on a roof with wooden supports underneath. A hexagonal logo with "ez" and a house icon is on the left. The shingles are neatly aligned, and the person is wearing a red shirt.

Slate roof tiles are a premium option that’s been used for centuries. Made from natural stone, they’re incredibly durable, weather-resistant, rot and pest resistant, and fireproof, but should be installed properly to avoid cracking. The material first appeared to the northeast of the US.

Slate tiles come in rich, natural tones like gray, black, green, and red, giving homes a sophisticated look. While they’re long-lasting—often over 100 years—they’re also one of the most expensive options and require professional installation due to their weight.

Average Price: Between $10 – $30 per square foot.

Main Qualities: Heavy, tricky to install, highly increase curb appeal and home’s resale value. 

Clay Roof Tiles 

Close-up view of terracotta roof tiles arranged in neat rows. On the left, a teal geometric overlay features a house icon and the letters "ez" inside a hexagon.

Clay tiles are probably the most commonly used and widely recognized form of roof tile. It is a classic choice among homeowners, especially for Mediterranean, Spanish, or Southwestern-style homes. As far as durability is concern, clay roof tiles last between 50 and 100 years with proper maintenance. 

Known for their rich, earthy tones, like orange and red, and curved shapes, clay tiles are resistant to fire, insects, and rot. They’re also eco-friendly, as they’re made from natural, accessible materials. However, they can be brittle and require proper support due to their weight.

Average Price: Between $10 – $20 per square foot.

Main Qualities: Have a lot of weight, professional installation required, increases insulation, pest and fire resistant. 

Cedar Shake Roof Tiles 

A wooden shingle roof is partially covered by leaves from a nearby tree. A graphic overlay on the right features a hexagon with "ez" inside, set against a blue honeycomb pattern.

Cedar shake roof tiles offer a warm, natural aesthetic. Made from real wood, they’re ideal for rustic houses, cottages, and Victorian or Craftsman-style homes. Cedar shake roof tiles are an eco-friendly roofing system and when properly care for can last between 30 and 50 years in good shape. 

Cedar tiles provide decent insulation and blend beautifully with nature. On the downside, they require regular maintenance to prevent mold, rot, and pest infestations, and their lifespan is shorter than many other materials. However, many cedar wood shakes are now pre-treated or composite, cutting out these downsides. 

Average Price: Between $6 – $15 per square foot

Main Qualities: Great for historic homes, last longer in mild climates, eco-friendly, may need frequent repair. 

Concrete Roof Tiles 

A close-up view of stacked gray roofing shingles is on the left side. The right side has a diagonal blue design with hexagonal patterns and a logo featuring the letters "ez" inside a hexagon.

Concrete tiles are an affordable and durable alternative to clay roof tiles and terracotta roof tiles. They can last between 50 and 100 years. Available in various shapes and colors, they mimic the look of other materials while offering excellent fire resistance and durability. 

However, like clay tiles, concrete tiles are heavy and may require reinforced roofing structures. They are also not easy to shape into other designs, but that may compromise their strength. 

Average Price: Between $10 – $20 per square foot.

Main Qualities: Low maintenance and durable, hard to install, great for homes in areas prone to extreme weather. 

Composite Roof Tiles 

A sloped roof with brown, shingle-style tiles. The edge of the roof features a gutter system. In the foreground, a hexagonal logo with "ez" is displayed on a teal background with a honeycomb pattern. Green trees and a blue sky are visible.

Composite roof tiles are made from a mix of materials, including plastics and fibers, to create a lightweight and durable product that can be a great alternative to asphalt shingle. 

They’re designed to replicate the appearance of slate, wood, or clay at a fraction of the cost, therefore they come in various colors and shapes. Composite tiles are resistant to weathering, eco-friendly, and can last between 30 and 50 years.  

Average Price: Between $4 – $10 square foot depending on the designs.

Main Qualities: Budget-friendly, eco-friendly, shorter lifespan than other roof tile materials. 

Metal Roof Tiles 

A roof with grey metal roofing sheets and a brick chimney. A partially constructed gable is visible. The image has a hexagonal graphic overlay on the left with the letters "ez" inside it.

Metal roof tiles are lightweight, durable, and energy-efficient. Homeowners also like the sleek appearance of metal roofs. Common materials include tin, steel, aluminum, and copper, and most of these metal roof types are often coated to resist rust and corrosion. 

Metal tiles are available in various finishes and styles to mimic traditional materials and match with several different architectural styles. They’re an excellent choice for areas with extreme weather, though they may be noisier during rain or hail. As for longevity, metal roof tiles can last between 50 and 75 years when properly cared for. 

Average Price: Between $6 – $16 per square foot.

Main Qualities: Customizable, durable, easily recyclable, fire-resistant. 

Solar Roof Tiles 

A sloped roof with blue solar panels and a clear sky is shown. A hexagonal logo with "ez" is positioned on the left, overlaying a teal geometric pattern. The sun is partially visible, casting light on the roof.

Solar roof tiles are the future of roofing, the ideal combination of a sleek appearance with renewable energy. They generate electricity while protecting your home, making them ideal for a truly eco-conscious homeowners and look great houses with a modern architectural style, but they can be designed to match your home’s design. 

The latest models of solar roof tiles incorporate photovoltaic cells into the roofing itself, enabling homeowners to produce electricity without relying on conventional solar panels. They are also designed to match the look of standard roofing materials.

 While the upfront cost is high and you’ll need to confirm if you roof qualifies, solar roof tiles will significantly reduce energy bills over time and may even qualify for tax incentives. They are designed to last between 20 and 30 years. 

Average Price: Between $21 – $25 per square foot 

Main Qualities: Requires professional, specialized installation from experienced roofers or solar installers, repairs are pricey, produce clean energy, can be designed to the look fo your home. 

Roof Tile Styles, Designs, and Shapes 

Now that we have gone through the materials of roof tiles, let’s explore the designs and shapes you can choose for your home’s roof.

Flat Roof Tiles

Flat tiles, as their name indicates, lie flat against the roof deck and are simple and versatile, offering houses a clean finish and modern aesthetic. It is the favorite roof tile shape in contemporary, and minimal architecture. 

Flat roof tiles come in materials like concrete, clay, or composite and have a relatively easy installation compared to other, more intricate, roof tile designs.

Mission Tiles 

Close-up of a terracotta tile roof with curved tiles on a white building. To the left, a blue hexagonal logo with the letters "ez" is partially overlaid on the image. Bare branches are visible in the background.

Mission roof tiles are also known as Monk and Nun tiles and they have a curved shape. Common in Spanish or Mediterranean-style architecture, this roof tile design includes two interlocking parts. 

The first part is the convex tile (the “monk”) and there’s the concave tile (the “nun”), which work together to create the iconic wave-like pattern. This design doesn’t just look beautiful; it also helps with water runoff, making them a practical choice for homes in rainy climates.

Barrel Roof Tiles

Barrel tiles, another staple of classic architecture, feature a rounded shape that is functional and decorative. These tile design allow permits water to easily drain and provide an eye-catching, curved profile that works well on traditional and historic homes, like Spanish-style houses.

Pantiles

Pantiles are also referred to as S-tiles (due to their “S” shape that creates a rippled effect) and are a lightweight roof tile design that is pretty straightforward to install. Their signature rippled look gives roofs a sense of movement and visual interest, making them a great option for adding architectural character. 

Interlocking Roof Tiles

Interlocking tiles are like puzzle pieces for your roof—designed with carefully crafted grooves and channels to snap together perfectly. This not only boosts their ability to withstand the elements but also makes installation quicker and easier.

If you have chosen interlocking roof tiles for your roof no matter the material, they’re a great pick! Especially if you want a roof that’s both stylish and low-maintenance.

French Roof Tile

French roof tiles are all about bold elegance. With a flat base and striking ridges, they create a dimensional look able to add character to any home. But their beauty isn’t just for show—their design is highly functional, too, improving water runoff and making them a great choice for areas with heavy rain and even snow. If you’re looking for classic European vibe or modern, high-end charm, French tiles bring timeless sophistication to your roof.

Shake Roof Tiles 

Love the rustic charm of wooden shingles but want something more durable? Consider shake roof tiles. Designed to mimic the natural, rough-hewn texture of traditional wooden shakes, these tiles add warmth and depth to a home’s curb appeal.

The best part? You don’t have to worry about the upkeep of real wood—shake tiles come in tough materials like composite, fiber cement, and metal, offering the beauty of wood without the hassle.

Scalloped Roof Tiles

A split image shows two different red roof tile patterns side by side. On the left, smooth tiles with air vents are visible. On the right, curved, overlapping scalloped tiles are visible. A teal hexagon pattern with a logo that includes 'ez' is on the left.

Scalloped tiles have a rounded edge that resembles a fish scale, bringing a touch of whimsy and old-world charm to your house’s top. Their rounded edges create a decorative, eye-catching pattern that’s been used for Victorian homes, historic renovations, or fairy-tale aesthetic house out there for centuries. 

Beyond their unique look, these roof tiles also provide excellent coverage and durability, ensuring your home stays as enchanting as it is protected.

Graduated Roof Tiles

Graduated roof tiles offer a nod to history with their distinctive sizing. Larger tiles at the bottom gradually shrink towards the top, creating a visually dynamic effect that was once common in castles and centuries-old architecture. 

This style not only enhances a home’s antique appeal but also provides practical benefits, as the graduated sizing helps with weight distribution and water runoff. If you’re looking for a way to add historical character to your home while maintaining structural integrity, these tiles are a standout choice.

Pros and Cons of Roof Tiles    

A close-up of an orange ceramic tiled roof. A hexagonal logo with the letters "ez" and a house icon is on the right, set against a teal background with a hexagonal pattern.

Before you decide which type of roof tile you want for your home, consider the positives and drawbacks of this roofing system. We explain the main ones below:

Pros of Roof Tiles

  • Roof Tiles Have Great Longevity: Certain types of iile roofs, like clay and concrete, can last 100 years, often outliving other roofing materials like asphalt shingles. Some slate and tile roofs have been known to last up to two century with proper maintenance.
  • Roof Tiles Have Superior Durability: Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, tile roofs hold up well against heavy rain, strong winds, and even fire. Some options, like concrete and clay tiles, are also highly resistant to rot and pests’ damage.
  • Versatile Aesthetic Options: Available in a variety of styles, colors, and materials—including clay, concrete, and slate—tile roofs can complement anything from Mediterranean villas to modern single-family homes of several architectural designs. 
  • Roof Tiles Boosts Home Value: A well-maintained tile roof adds to a home’s resale value and curb appeal, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.

Downsizes of Roof Tiles

  • Roof Tiles May Have Higher Upfront Costs: Tile roofing is usually more expensive than other popular roofing systems, like asphalt shingles, both in materials used and installation. However, its long lifespan can make up for the higher upfront cost in the long run.
  • Roof Tiles Weight More: Tile roofs are much heavier than asphalt or metal roofing, which means some houses may require structural reinforcement to be able to support the additional weight.
  • You’ll Need a Pro To Install Roof Tiles: Unlike lighter roofing materials, tile requires expert installation to ensure everything is properly aligned, sealed, and ready to last the longest its warranty indicates. This can add labor costs to your budget, but is essential for maximizing performance.

Roof Tiles VS. Shingles

Two construction workers wearing safety helmets are installing roof tiles. The foreground shows close-up details of the black roof tiles. On the left, there is a hexagonal logo with the letters "ez" on a teal background.

ROOFER INSTALLING ROOF TILE

Roof tiles and shingles have each their own appeal and considerations. Roof tiles, often crafted from materials like clay or concrete, are praised for their durability and longevity. Typically they can withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds and hail, and some tile roofs have been known to last over a century with proper maintenance. 

Additionally, tiles offer a variety of styles and colors, allowing homeowners to customize their roof to their liking and considering their home’s color and design. However, roof tiles do have higher upfront costs, and having a tile roofing system installed can be pricey and complex. 

On the other hand, shingles, particularly asphalt shingles, the most popular roofing system in the United States, are a significantly budget-friendly and lightweight. Shingles are easier and quicker to install, making homeowners love this practical attribute. As tiles, shingles come in various styles and colors.

However, shingles generally have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting between 15 to 30 years. They also require more frequent and careful maintenance and replacement. Shingles are also less effective in extreme weather conditions compared to tiles. 

Advancements in the Roofing Tile Industry

Close-up of solar panels on a rooftop with raindrops on the surface. A logo with "ez" inside a hexagon appears on the left side of the image. The sky in the background is cloudy, and some buildings are visible.

The roofing industry is experiencing a wave of innovation, bringing forth materials and technologies that enhance their robustness, energy efficiency, and overall performance. Here’s a look at some of the latest advancements:

Self-Healing and Self-Cleaning Tiles

Imagine a roof that can mend its own minor scratches and repel dirt effortlessly. Thanks to advancements in materials science, self-healing shingles made from thermoplastic polymers can repair minor scuffs when exposed to heat. Similarly, self-cleaning roofs utilize water-repellent coatings that prevent dirt and mildew buildup, reducing the frequent needs for maintenance. 

Cool Roofing Materials

As energy efficiency becomes a priority, cool roofing materials have gained attention within the roofing tile and shingle industry. These roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping indoor temperatures lower and reducing the need for air conditioning. Options range from naturally reflective materials to specially engineered coatings that makes solar reflectance better. 

Smart Roofing Systems

The integration of technology into roofing has led to smart systems equipped with sensors that monitor various parameters, including temperature and moisture levels. These systems can detect leaks or damage early, allowing for proactive maintenance and potentially extending the roof’s lifespan. 

Conclusion: Types of Roof Tiles

We hope this guide has made choosing the right roof tile for your house a little easier—after all, your roof does more than just keep the rain out; it sets the tone for your home’s style and longevity. Whether you’re leaning toward the classic charm of slate, the eco-friendly perks of solar tiles, or the low-maintenance appeal of composites, the right choice will protect your home and boost its curb appeal and ROI for years to come.Want more tips on home improvements, real estate, and making the most of your space? Head over to the EZ Home Search Blog and dive into more expert insights!

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Preston Guyton