7 Types of Roof Tiles for Your Home

There's a great debate between tile and shingle roofs, but tile roofing often takes the cake for longevity, durability, and curb appeal. That being said, not every type of roof tile is an ideal option for every home. Each material's weight and cost will play a large role in whether they're your best bet.

1. Clay Roof Tiles

Clay roof tiles—often referred to as terracotta roof tiles—are one of the most common varieties of a range of classic home styles. This centuries-old type of roofing tile has withstood the test of time for many reasons. It can last between 50 and 100 years when properly maintained, increases your home's insulation, and is both pest- and fire-resistant. Their vibrant look also increases your curb appeal.

On the other hand, there are both pros and cons of this roofing tile. Clay tiles are expensive in comparison to other options, costing between $10 and $20 per square foot. They also add a lot of weight to your roof and are difficult to install. Only a professional should install clay roof tiles, as they can chip and break quite easily.

Best for: Mediterranean-style homes in warm climates

2. Concrete Roof Tiles

Choosing between clay and concrete tiles is a common dilemma. Like terracotta, concrete roof tiles are long-lasting, resistant to common roof issues, and based primarily on a combination of natural materials. Concrete tiles, however, are not easy to shape into various designs to imitate the look of other popular shingles without sacrificing strength. 

Concrete tiles are ideal for areas prone to extreme weather. It's necessary to have a strong roof structure to hold the concrete, but once it's installed, there is little upkeep and repairs over its 50-year life span. Budget between $10 and $20 per square foot for concrete roof tiles.

Best for: Homes prone to hail and harsh weather

3. Slate Roof Tiles

While slate tiles are one of the most expensive roof replacement cost options, these tiles can last between 100 and 200 years. Slate tiles are resistant to fire, rot, and pests, but they can crack on impact or when installed improperly. They also come in a range of eye-catching natural hues that can significantly increase your home's curb appeal and your home's resale value. 

Much like concrete and clay, slate is very heavy and tricky to install, which pushes the price to between $10 and $30 per square foot.

Best for: Strong roofs prone to damage

4. Composite Roof Tiles

True to their name, composite roof tiles include a combination of materials, often both plastics and natural materials. In many cases, you can find composite tiles composed of recycled materials. The wide range of designs mimics terracotta, slate, or wood without the weight or risks that come with each option. That being said, they are still quite heavy and tricky to install compared to asphalt shingles.

Composite roof tiles cost between $4 and $6 per square foot, while specialized designs, such as composite shakes, can cost up to $10 per square foot. Most composite tiles last between 30 and 50 years before needing replacement.

Best for: Budget and eco-friendly alternative to clay, stone, and wood

5. Metal Roof Tiles

Metal roof tiles play a similar role as composite tiles, mimicking the look of popular heavy materials without the high cost and installation challenges. From steel and aluminum to copper and zinc, metal tiles come in a range of designs, colors, and sizes. Most varieties require minimal upkeep and repairs but can be prone to dents from hail or fallen trees. Since the metals are easily accessible and recycled, tiles offer another eco-conscious option. 

Keep in mind that the price of metal roof tiles ranges from $6 to $16 per square foot.

Best for: Fire-resistant roof alternatives on old homes

6. Wood Shakes

Not to be confused with wood shingles, wood shakes offer a rustic, naturally sculpted look for a range of homes. Victorians, cottages, and Craftsman homes often benefit from wood shakes, though you'll only see them on a few designs. Many cedar wood shakes come in pre-treated and composite varieties that cut out the common downsides to wood, such as the fire, rot, and pest risks. 

They are also an eco-friendly and sustainable choice when properly cared for. You will likely need to repair wood shakes every 30 to 50 years, but they can last longer in milder climates.

Best for: Historic and Craftsman-style homes

7. Solar Roof Tiles

While you'll find the terms solar roof shingles and tiles used interchangeably, this growing technology is an excellent alternative to solar panels. Solar tiles blend with the design of your roof and generate energy to replace, or partially replace, the traditional system used in your home. 

Solar tiles often sit on top of most standard roofing materials, though some tiles—such as slate and wood—don't pair as well with the technology. Solar installers and professional roofers may also need to shift sections of your clay roof to make way for solar tiles. The cost of solar roof tiles ranges from $20 to $25 per square foot, but this heavily depends on local and federal incentives that can offset the price.

Best for: Eco-conscious homes seeking solar panel alternatives