Concrete and clay tiles are one of the most popular and attractive roofing options in the market. They go with multiple styles, making them a prime consideration for many.
Both are durable and aesthetically appealing in their own way. However, while building your dream home, these must not be the only factors for comparison.
You must explore more significant factors, like weather resistance, weight, installation, and cost. Let’s know it all here!
Concrete Tile Vs Clay Tile: The Ultimate Face-Off
Concrete tiles are built by mixing cement, sand, and water, molding them in the shape of tiles, and baking them at high temperatures. Available in different colors, they appear like clay, wood, and slate tiles.
Clay tiles are made of natural clay, shaped, and fired in the kiln. They have been around for centuries and are popular for being timeless.
Let’s understand the difference of each tile type here based on these factors:
Weather Resistance Abilities of Concrete or Clay Roof Tiles
Concrete tiles can withstand extremes of weather, including heavy rain, strong winds, and hail.
However, being highly porous, they absorb excess water (around 13%). So, during rain or snow, the absorbed water freezes from significant temperature drops. This may crack the tile from within. They stay wet for longer, causing mold and mildew growth and staining.
Clay tiles can withstand extreme heat, humidity, rain, hail, and wind. They also absorb around 6% of water absorption. So, clay tiles are less likely to crack when frozen, grow mold and mildew, or get stained.
Lifespan of Concrete Tile vs Clay Tile
Concrete tiles last for around 30-50 years with regular maintenance. They can resist several damages, including those from rot, insect infestation, and fire.
However, since they are porous and absorb water, cracks and fading reduce their durability. You can prevent this by applying sealants and regular maintenance.
Clay tile can last more than 100 years with proper upkeep. They are also resistant to fire, rot, and insects. However, they aren’t porous, making them less vulnerable to water damage.
Weight and Structural Demands of Concrete or Clay Roof Tiles
Concrete tiles are almost 40% heavier than clay alternatives. For around 100 square feet, concrete tiles can weigh 820-1,100 pounds.
So, if you use them, you must get your home structure reinforced. Otherwise, it can’t withstand the weight of the concrete tile roof. Due to additional weight and structure strengthening processes, it will cost more.
Clay tiles weigh about 600-650 pounds only for every 100 square feet. They are not as light as asphalt shingles. However, if you use them, you won’t need to fortify the home structure to bear the weight.
Energy Efficiency of Concrete Tile vs Clay Tile
Concrete tiles have medium thermal insulation abilities. After installation, there’s an air gap under the tiles. This prevents heat escape from indoors to outdoors and entry from outdoors to indoors to some extent.
However, it will still need some extra insulation, especially in weather extremes, to make your home comfortable. It’s only slightly energy efficient.
Clay tiles have a much higher thermal insulation power. They offer improved air circulation and reflect heat more effectively. This makes them a better option in extremely hot climates than concrete tiles.
So, if you want to reduce your energy bills from cooling costs, clay tiles are more energy efficient.
Maintenance Needs of Concrete and Clay Tile
Highly porous concrete tiles are susceptible to mold, moss, and algae growth, chips, and cracks. They require frequent maintenance, including quality sealant application on exposed surfaces to minimize water absorption.
If you get concrete tiles, you’ll have to splurge on regular maintenance by professionals or make time to do it yourself.
Whereas on clay tiles, the porosity is lower. The mold, algae, or moss growth and cracks or chips due to water absorption and freezing are much less. So, they need inspections and cleaning at longer intervals than concrete.
Thus, you won’t have to invest excess time or energy in maintaining them.
Eco-Friendliness of Concrete vs Clay Tile
The basic components of concrete (cement, sand, and water) are available easily. However, the manufacturing process emits huge amounts of carbon and greenhouse gases, which makes it less eco-friendly.
The US emitted over 6.3 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases. Opting for concrete tiles may add to this value.
The only environmentally appealing part about concrete tiles is that they are recyclable.
Clay is available naturally, so clay tiles cause less pollution from production. In addition, these tiles are completely recyclable and biodegradable. So, it’s a more eco-friendly choice.
Installation Process of Concrete and Clay Tile
Concrete tiles are not as fragile as clay ones. These can be cut and shaped easily. The installation process doesn’t need specially-skilled labor, so the installation is not expensive.
However, clay tiles are much more fragile and need special care while installing. Thus, installation requires skilled labor and more time, making it way more expensive.
Aesthetics of Concrete and Clay Tile
In terms of aesthetics, concrete tiles are extremely versatile with their varying colors, finishes, and textures. They can be made to mimic different materials, including wood shakes and slate. The only issue is that the material fades from UV exposure, taking away its charm.
Clay tiles are suited for Spanish, Victorian, Colonial, and Mediterranean-themed architectures and some modern styles. Available in reds, oranges, and browns, they create a warm and rustic look that doesn’t fade.
Cost of Clay Tile vs Concrete Tile
The cost of clay tile vs concrete tile is the greatest factor behind homeowners’ choices.
Clay tiles are more expensive. On average, they’re around $700-1,000 for every 100 square feet. However, high-end ones can be more than $3,000.
On the other hand, concrete tiles are affordable. On average, they cost around $400-900 for every 100 square feet. You can also find ones worth around $1,000 for high-end qualities.
However, these can vary based on sellers, location, availability, and other factors.
Final Words
If you’re on a tight budget or reside in a moderate climate, concrete tiles are a great choice. For longevity and energy efficiency and in extreme weather, clay tiles are your best friend.
However, if you’re still confused, contact us at LA Roofing Materials. We’ll connect you with the perfect contractor who’ll help you make a decision!