When choosing a roofing material for your home, you may wonder whether metal roofing or tiles are the better options. Both have advantages and disadvantages; the choice ultimately comes down to your needs and preferences. In this guide, we’ll compare metal roofing vs. tile to help you make an informed decision.
Durability and lifespan
Metal roofing can last up to 100 years, with installers providing 50-year warranties, while tile roofing typically lasts around 50 years. Metal roofs are lightweight and create little stress on the load-bearing support structures. Tile roofing is heavy and requires a stronger structure, depending on your structure’s size.
Cost
While the upfront cost of tile roofing may be lower than metal roofing, its long-term cost can be higher. Tile roofing requires more maintenance, and it can be challenging to find matching tiles. In contrast, metal roofing requires little maintenance and is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Energy efficiency
When deciding whether to use metal roofing or tile, each material’s energy efficiency should be considered. Metal roofing has better energy efficiency than tile roofing. It can reflect heat away from the building in the summer, reducing energy costs by up to 40%. Tile roofing can absorb heat, making it less energy-efficient. Metal roofing can be painted in light, reflective colors, enhancing energy efficiency. Tile roofing is available in limited colors and finishes.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics are also a consideration when choosing metal roofing vs. tile. Tile roofing offers a classic, elegant look that can increase your home’s curb appeal. It is available in various styles, shapes, and colors, allowing you to customize your roof to match the architectural style of your home. In contrast, metal roofing has a modern, industrial look that may only suit some homes.
However, metal roofing is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, and it can be designed to mimic the look of tile roofing. Depending on your design, you may choose metal roofing or tiles.
Environmental impact
Environmental impact needs to be considered when choosing tile roofing vs. metal roofing. Metal roofing is more environmentally friendly than tile roofing. It is 100% recyclable and can be made from recycled materials. Metal roofing also has a better emissivity, reflecting solar radiation than tile roofing.
This can help reduce the heat island effect of cities when compared to tile roofing. Furthermore, metal roofing is more energy-efficient than tile roofing, which can help reduce your carbon footprint.
Do I choose metal roofing or tiles?
When comparing metal roofing vs. tiles, metal roofing offers several advantages. Metal roofs are incredibly durable and can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance. They are also lightweight, less stressful on the load-bearing roof structure, and can be installed over an existing roof. In addition, metal roofing is energy-efficient and can reduce energy costs by up to 40% in the summer and 15% in the winter.
Tile roofing is popular among homeowners. Tile roofing offers excellent insulation, which can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Tile roofs are durable and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Tile roofs come in a variety of styles and colors.
Overall, you should consider the climate in your area, the style of your home, and your budget when choosing metal roofing vs. tile. Metal roofs are a better choice for areas that experience heavy rain, hail, or snow, as they are more durable and resistant to damage. Tile roofs are more suitable for areas with mild climates.
You should consult a professional roofing contractor to evaluate your specific needs and help you choose metal roofing or tile for your home.
FAQs
What is metal roofing?
Metal roofing is a system made up of metal pieces or tiles that are resistant to corrosion, impervious to water, and durable. The use of metal in roofing dates back thousands of years, with lead and copper being some of the earliest metals used. Today, metal roofs are made of corrugated galvanized steel or aluminum, zinc, and copper.
There are various metal roofs, including standing seam metal roofs, mechanically seamed standing seams, snap-locked with fastener strips or clips, corrugated metal roofs, and stone-coated metal roofing. Coatings are also applied to metal panels to prevent rust, provide waterproofing, or reflect heat.
What are the advantages of metal roofing?
- Durability: Metal roofing is known for its strength and durability. It can withstand extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, hail, and snow, making it an excellent option for areas prone to harsh weather.
- Longevity: Metal roofing can last up to 100 years with proper installation and maintenance, making it a long-term investment that pays off in the long run.
- Energy efficiency: Metal roofing reflects sunlight and heat, reducing the amount of heat absorbed into the building and thus reducing cooling costs in the summer.
- Environmental friendliness: Metal roofing is 100% recyclable and can be made from other recycled products. This makes it an environmentally friendly option that helps reduce waste.
- Lightweight: Metal roofing is lightweight, creating little stress on the load-bearing roof support structures. This is especially useful for large and old structures, helping maintain structural integrity.
- Low maintenance: Metal roofing requires minimal maintenance, reducing overall maintenance costs.
What are the disadvantages of metal roofing?
- Cost: Metal roofing is typically more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles, making it a less attractive option for homeowners on a tight budget.
- Noise: Metal roofing can be noisy during rain or hailstorms, which may concern some homeowners.
- Denting: While metal roofing is durable, it can still dent if struck by large hail or other heavy objects.
- Expansion and contraction: Metal roofing can expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can cause the fasteners to loosen over time.
- Color fading: The color of some metal roofs may fade over time due to exposure to the elements, which can affect their appearance.
What is tile roofing?
Roofing tiles are building materials designed to cover and protect the roof of a building from rain and other weather elements. They come in various shapes and materials, such as clay, concrete, metal, and plastic, and are hung from the roof framework with nails.
Roof tiles are usually laid in parallel rows, with each row overlapping the row below it to exclude rainwater and cover the nails. There are also unique tiles for roof ridges, hips, and valleys. Roof tiles have evolved, with different shapes and profiles, such as flat tiles, plain clay tiles, imbrex and tegula, Roman tiles, pantiles, and monk and nun tiles.
What are the advantages of tile roofing?
- Aesthetic appeal: Tile roofing offers a classic and timeless look that many homeowners find attractive. It’s available in various colors, textures, and styles, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your home’s architecture.
- Longevity: Tile roofing has a long lifespan and can last over 50 years with proper maintenance. Some tile roofs can last up to 100 years, making them an excellent investment for homeowners who want a durable roofing option.
- Fire resistance: Tile roofing is non-combustible and can withstand extreme heat and fire, which makes it a great option for homeowners living in wildfire-prone areas.
- Energy efficiency: Tile roofing can help reduce energy costs by providing natural insulation, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
- Low maintenance: Tile roofing requires very little maintenance and can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as wind and hail, without sustaining damage.
- Environmentally friendly: Tile roofing is made from natural materials, such as clay and concrete, which are sustainable and eco-friendly. Additionally, tile roofing can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.
What are the disadvantages of tile roofing?
- High cost: Tile roofing is more expensive than other roofing materials, including asphalt shingles and metal roofing.
- Heavyweight: Tiles are heavy, meaning the roof structure must be strong enough to support their weight. This can be a problem if you install a tile roof on an older home or a building with a weak roof structure.
- Fragility: While tile roofs are durable, they are also fragile. If you or a worker walks on the tiles, they can crack or break. This can be a problem if you need to access the roof for maintenance or repairs.
- Maintenance: While tile roofs are durable, they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. This can include replacing broken tiles, cleaning the roof, and sealing the tiles to prevent leaks.
- Installation: Installing a tile roof is a complex and time-consuming process. This can make the installation more expensive and take longer than other roofing materials.
Are there any eco-friendly options for tile roofing?
Yes, there are eco-friendly options for tile roofing, such as recycled or reclaimed tile. These options help reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of your roofing project.
Can metal roofing be installed over an existing roof?
Yes, metal roofing can be installed over an existing roof. This can save time and money on the installation process. However, consulting with a professional roofing contractor is essential to determine if this is a viable option for your specific roofing project.
Final thoughts
When comparing metal roofing vs. tile, both have their advantages and disadvantages. Metal roofing offers durability, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness, while tile roofing offers classic aesthetics and a lower upfront cost.
Ultimately, choosing metal or tile roofing depends on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Metal roofing is the way to go if you’re looking for a durable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly roofing option. If you want classic aesthetics and are okay with regular maintenance, tile roofing may be a better option.
If you still need help choosing metal roofing or tile, speak with our team of experienced roofers. We can help you decide based on your specific needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more.
