Tile and shingle roofs dominate residential roofing in Arizona and throughout much of the country. Budget, style, climate, and personal preferences determine which material is best when faced with replacing a roof.

Tile roofs can last for 100-plus years and are durable. Tile roofs are made from clay, concrete, or terracotta and come in many colors, sizes, and styles to match different architectural styles. Fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance make them a good choice. Furthermore, tile roofs resist the severe winds, hail, and heavy rain of Arizona’s monsoon season. They also resist mold, insects, and rot, saving homeowners money on maintenance.

Shingle roofing is less expensive than tile roofs, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious households. Plus shingle roofs are easy to install, saving homeowners even more money on labor costs. They require minimal upkeep, but they last just 20 to 30 years in comparison. High winds, hail, and rain can, and often does, damage shingles and cause leaks. Shingle roofs lack the same amount of insulation, making them less energy-efficient than their tile counterparts.Below we dive further into the debate over which roofing type is best by looking at the pros and cons of both.

Tile Roofs

A tile roof is a roof made from clay, ceramic, concrete or slate and each tile is secured to the roof deck with nails. Just like asphalt shingles, a tile roof can be composed of several layers to provide additional protection against the elements. The tiles themselves can be coated in a variety of materials to provide additional protection against UV rays, hail, and wind. Tile roofs are typically more expensive than other roofing materials, but they are also more durable and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.

Here are the pros and cons of going with tile for your new roof:

Tile Roof Pros

1. Durability: Tile roofs survive 100 years or more with good installation and upkeep. They can withstand severe rain, powerful winds, and hail, making them ideal for adverse weather settings. Wildfire-prone locations benefit from tile roofs’ fire resistance.

2. Energy Efficiency: Tile roofs cool homes in summer. Their natural insulation reduces roof heat absorption, making them a great option for Central Arizona residents. This minimizes cooling needs, lowering energy bills if you were to upgrade from a shingle roof.

3. Low-Upkeep: Tile roofs are low-maintenance. Furthermore, tile roofs resist rot, distortion, and corrosion. They don’t attract insects either.

4. Aesthetics: Tile roofs complement many architectural types due to their variety of colors and styles. They can offer the home a unique and exquisite appeal, plus the range of shapes and styles allows homeowners to build a custom design that meets their tastes.

5. Eco-friendly: Clay and concrete tiles are eco-friendly. Recyclability saves waste and protects the environment. They also minimize carbon emissions, making them a green option for eco-conscious households.

6. Resale Value: Tile roofs boost home resale value. Durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency make them popular with homebuyers. Plus there’s peace of mind knowing the roof won’t need to be replaced any time soon.

Tile Roof Cons

1. Cost: Tile roofs cost more than asphalt or metal roofs. Tile roofs require particular knowledge, tools, and structural support, making installation more expensive.

2. Weight: Not all homes can support tile roofs’ weight. Older homes may need reinforcing before installing a tile roof. A tile roof’s weight might also damage the structure in an earthquake, not that Arizonians have to deal with this regularly.

3. Fragility: Tile roofs are strong, yet heavy objects can shatter or chip them. Stepping on a tile roof can break tiles, making it dangerous.

4. Maintenance: Tile roofs need some maintenance, although less than other roofing materials. Frequent cleaning prevents dirt build-up and moss from damaging tiles. To avoid leaks and water damage, replace broken tiles immediately.

5. Few Installation Options: Tile roofs aren’t for all buildings. These can become unstable in severe gusts, thus steep slopes and low pitches are not suggested. Not all roofing contractors have the right tile roofing knowledge – limiting homeowners’ alternatives or potentially causing issues for homeowners down the road.

6. Discoloration: Sunlight and weather degrade tile rooftops. This can dull and age the roof. Fading doesn’t affect tile durability, but it can impact a property’s aesthetics.

Shingle Roofs

Shingles move water off pitched roofs by interlocking or overlapping. They’re commonly made from asphalt, ceramic, concrete, metal, plastic, rubber, stone, and wood. Shingle roofs have multiple layers for weatherproofing and to protect against UV rays, hail, and wind, they have a protective coating. Shingle roofs are affordable and quick to install, making them popular with homeowners seeking an inexpensive solution.

Here are the pros and cons of choosing shingle roofing:

Shingle Roof Pros

1. Affordability: Shingle roofs are relatively inexpensive. They are cheaper than tile, slate, and metal, making them a good alternative for budget-conscious property owners.

2. Easy Install: Installing shingle roofs is easy in comparison, saving homeowners money. Most roofing companies know how to construct shingle roofs quickly and efficiently.

3. Versatility: Shingle roofs suit many architectural types since they exist in many colors, styles, and materials. Homeowners can pick from asphalt, wood, metal, or slate.

4. Durability: Depending on the material and installation, shingle roofs won’t need to be replaced for 20 to 30 years. They can withstand heavy winds, rain, and hail, making them ideal for residences in haboob weather. But, as mentioned, tile roofs hold up better under extreme weather conditions.

5. Low Maintenance: Shingle roofs are low-maintenance. They do not attract insects or require sealing or painting like other roofing materials.

Shingle Roof Cons

1. Lifespan: Shingles last less than tile or metal roofs. Depending on installation quality and shingle type, they last two to three decades. They may need more replacements and repair work, which can be costly.

2. Durability: Shingle roofs are durable but not as durable as other roofing materials. They leak more due to severe winds, hail, and heavy rain damage than other roof types.

3. Energy Efficiency: Shingle roofs are less energy-efficient than tile or metal roofs, even with reflecting coatings. This can increase summer energy bills if you go from a tile roof to a shingle one.

4. Maintenance: Shingle roofs require some maintenance. Shingles can loosen and leak over time, causing water damage. Frequent roof inspections and maintenance help save money on repair costs.

5. Aesthetics: Shingle roofs come in many colors and styles, but they may not be as attractive as tile or metal. Due to sunshine and weather, shingles may fade or lose granuals, affecting the home’s aesthetics.

6. Environmental Impact: Shingle roofs have a significant impact on the environment. They are made from non-renewable petroleum and replacing shingle roofs creates landfill garbage.

Conclusion

Clay, concrete, or terracotta tile roofs last over 100 years and are robust. They are energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and resistant to strong rain, high winds, and hail. Tile roofs are fire-resistant and attractive, adding curb-appeal to most homes. Tile roofs are heavy, expensive, and require specialist installation all adding to their overall cost.

For budget-conscious homeowners, shingle roofs are cheaper and easier to install. Properly installed and maintained, they can do their job for as many as 30 years. Unlike tile roofs, shingle roofs can be damaged by severe winds, hail, and heavy rain more frequently. They lack the same degree of insulation, meaning they are less energy-efficient than tile roofs. Tile and shingle roofs have many pros and cons. When choosing a roofing material, homeowners should consider price, style, climate, and durability. To determine which option is best for your property, contact your local roofing expert to get a pro’s opinion.

f you’re ready to choose the perfect roofing material for your home or have any questions about tile or shingle roofs, don’t hesitate to contact Icon Roofing. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you make an informed decision that suits your needs, style, and budget. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation and estimate, and let us help you transform your home with a roof that’s built to last. Request a Quote or call us at (480) 427-7600. Let Icon Roofing be your trusted partner in creating a durable and stylish roof for your home!