Traditionally, homeowners in America have had a choice between two primary types of roofing material: shingles and tiles. While more modern materials like metal are gaining in popularity, most people still opt for one of these two tried-and-true options.
The question, then, is: which one is better? As with most things in life, the answer is that “it’s complicated.” Each roofing material presents its advantages and disadvantages, and what material works best for your situation is determined by your unique needs.
Shingles
Shingles are a type of roofing that uses thin, overlapping slats that create a slanted, waterproof surface that transports outdoor moisture down and away from the home’s interior. While shingles can be made from various materials, asphalt is the most common type used in the United States.
This makes individual shingles both inexpensive and lightweight, making for a cost-effective option when choosing roofing materials. Shingles also come in various colors and styles, making them easily adaptable to almost any architectural and aesthetic style for homes.
Shingle roofs are also far easier to repair due to their low cost and ease of installation. Roofers can quickly replace damaged or missing shingles within a single afternoon, making emergency repairs before a storm much more feasible.
The ease of repair is good because shingle roofs are far more delicate and susceptible to damage than their tile alternatives. The light weight of each shingle makes them highly susceptible to strong winds in extreme weather conditions like hurricanes and tropical storms.
Shingle roofs also have a significantly shorter lifespan than the alternatives. Depending on local weather conditions and regularity of maintenance, a shingle roof can last 20-30 years, which is about half as long as more robust roofing materials.
Shingle roofs are highly versatile and more than adequate for most of the continental United States. However, for homeowners in Gulf states that are often subjected to extreme weather events, the low cost of shingle roof installations may be offset by the need for regular large-scale repairs.
Tiles
Tile roofs utilize molded blocks of hardened materials fitted together to protect a home against the elements. Like shingles, roof tiles can be made from a variety of materials, the most commonly used being clay or concrete.
Tile roofs are best known for their hardiness and aesthetic appeal, providing a more traditional textured appearance to a home than the flatter look of shingles. The reddish terracotta colors associated with clay tiles are an especially sought-after addition to many more traditional architectural styles.
The more practical benefit of tile roofing is its durability. It is highly resistant to everything but the most extreme weather conditions, making it a desirable option for areas frequented by hurricanes and other damaging storms.
This durability translates to an extremely long lifespan. Depending on the materials used and the regularity of maintenance, tile roofs can last anywhere from 30 to over 100 years. That means that if you install a clay tile roof today, it may outlive multiple generations of your family.
Unfortunately, this durability and curb appeal come at a heavy price. Tile materials are much more expensive than asphalt shingles. Each tile is very heavy and requires significant expertise to be installed effectively, making installation and repairs a long, complex, and costly process.
There is also significant variability in quality and costs depending on the base materials used. Cement tiles are cheaper, but are more absorptive of water, have shorter lifespans, and tend to become discolored after prolonged exposure to the sun.
Which Is Best For Me?
Determining what material works best for your home involves weighing the pros and cons of each material against your budget, the local climate, the architectural style of your home, and your long term goals. For southern Florida residents, this often means weighing the lower cost of a shingles installation versus the likelihood of needing extensive yearly repairs due to the prevalence of hurricanes and tropical storms.
If you would prefer to consult with the experts before making a decision, A&E Brothers Roofing provides free consultations to homeowners looking for a roof replacement. These consultations will give you a detailed rundown of the short-, medium-, and long-term costs of each type of roofing, including the average price of maintenance and repairs.
A&E Brothers Roofing is the company to call if you need a high-quality roof installation or replacement. With over 50 years of industry experience, our professionals can help you with roofing, material selection, and installation. Get in touch with us to learn more about our roofing services and receive a free quote.
