Tile Roofing: Is It Right For Your Home?

As a true tile roofing specialist in Northeast Florida, Three C’s Roofing has the experience to help you decide if a tile roof is right for you! 

Scott Crider apprenticed under skilled tile roofers and did tile roofing exclusively for 10 years. A seasoned professional, he knows all about tile roofing and installs both concrete roof tile and clay roof tile. Here are a few common questions he answers when working with homeowners who want a tile roof for their home.

Are clay tiles better than concrete tiles? Three C’s Roofing installs both types of tile roofing. Concrete tiles are more cost effective, though clay has a significantly longer life. While clay tiles can last up to 100 years, concrete tiles typically have a lifespan of 30-50 years. However, the correct underlayment must be used and installed right!

How do you adhere the tiles to my roof? We use screws; nails aren’t up to code anymore. We ensure the proper number of fasteners is used. Sealing vents and valleys is critical. We also use foam when applicable, like low slope or a screw down/foam down in high wind situations. Or if the homeowner has a preference. Typically, it is the low slope situation.

Do tile roof edges need reinforcement? The eave, or the edge of the roof, requires special attention. Proper eave closure ensures the tiles are secure and the roof is protected from water damage and pests. Three C’s Roofing uses metal eave closures which are the norm. This provides a strong and stable edge for the tiles, reducing the risk of tile displacement during high winds or heavy rains.

Which underlayment do you recommend? Despite the difference in clay and concrete tiles, both types of tiles require the correct underlayment. Using an inferior underlayment will shorten the length of your roof. Three C’s Roofing uses Westlake high temperature peel and stick which is designed specifically for tile (and metal roofs) and for the extreme temps in Florida. Scott Crider has used this trusted brand for years due to its high quality.

Can I use tiles on my low slope roof? Just like asphalt shingles, you can’t tile anything below a 2/12 pitch, meaning the roof must rise at least 2 vertical inches for every 12 horizontal inches. Roofs with a pitch below this threshold are too flat for effective water runoff, which can lead to pooling, leaks, and damage to the roofing materials. Both building codes and manufacturer guidelines specify this minimum pitch to ensure proper installation and performance of the roofing system.

How long will it take to complete my new tile roof? The average tile roof will take about a week. Larger or more complex roofs can take up to two weeks. Each tile must be carefully aligned, cut, and secured, and the underlayment must be properly installed first. Weather delays, detailed finishing touches, and quality checks may affect the timeline. Three C’s Roofing takes the time to correctly install your new tile roofing.

What types of tile roofing do you install? Three C’s Roofing installs all types of tiles, allowing homeowners to choose the style that best suits their preferences. This includes shakes, barrel, Spanish and more. Scott ensures every project meets the highest quality standards. Any subcontractors we use are insured, highly skilled, and adhere to strict quality control measures.

If you are considering a tile roof, call the experts! Three C’s Roofing will work with you to determine if tile is the right choice for your home.