Concrete vs Terracotta Roof Tiles

If you're repairing or replacing your roof, you'll ultimately be faced with a choice of material. With so many roofing options available, deciding between concrete and terracotta roof tiles can be a challenge. Here we've outlined some of the key selling points of both options, as well as their potential limitations.

Concrete tiles

Renowned for their strength and their consistent size and shape, concrete tiles are a great option for your roofing project and carry fantastic benefits.

- Affordability: As concrete tiles usually cost $250 per square metre at the most, they're more affordable than their terracotta counterpart.

- Customisable: The colour options for concrete are endless, and you can even have your tiles finished to complement your home.

- Durable: These strong tiles are able to withstand high winds and freezing temperatures. They're even fireproof, so you'll feel safer if your home is situated in an area prone to natural fires.

Concrete tiles do also have certain limitations or pitfalls which might mean they're not the right choice for you.

- Absorb water: Compared to terracotta tiles, which have an absorption rate of roughly 6%, concrete tiles have a water absorption rate of about 13%, meaning they're more likely to develop algae and mildew. Having your roof cleaned once a year can prevent unwanted build-up.

- Shorter lifespan: Concrete tiles usually last 50 years. This is a longer lifespan than asphalt, but less than metal, slate, terracotta, and even some wood shingle options.

- Heavy: While terracotta weighs about 600-650 pounds per square, concrete's not much better! Concrete tiles can weigh even more than 950 pounds per square, meaning your home might need more reinforcements to support a concrete roof.

Terracotta tiles

Terracotta tiles are made from moulded clay and are known for their distinctive red-orange colour. Like concrete tiles, they have a number of advantages when used in roofing.

- Durable: As a durable and low-maintenance option, terracotta tiles are a great choice.

- Natural insulation: Terracotta tiles can help keep you warm and cool when you need to be, thus helping you save on energy bills.

- Long-lasting: A terracotta roof can last over 100 years if it's installed and maintained correctly.

- Unique: The recognisable appearance of terracotta is a unique selling point, and you'll be confident your roof will only look better with time.

There are several limitations or disadvantages of terracotta which are important to consider.

- Expensive: Second only to natural slate, terracotta tiles are the most expensive roofing material.

- Complex installation: There is more time and expertise required to install a terracotta roof.

- Breakable: If a tree falls on your roof, or there's damage during a repair, your tiles can break easily.

- Not suitable for cold temperatures: If you live in an area with regular freezing temperatures, terracotta might not be the best choice. The clay can warm and crack in cold conditions, leading to costly repairs and even replacements.

Take the hassle out of roof tiling with Recycling Roof Tiles

If you're still not sure whether terracotta or concrete tiles are right for you and your property, our friendly team at Recycling Roof Tiles is here to help. We specialise in recycling and upcycling roof tiles, and our customers can choose from a range of tiles that aren't just high-quality but also environmentally sustainable.

And if you have old tiles you want to dispose of, Recycling Roof Tiles can take them off your hands. Our knowledgeable, experienced team is on hand to walk you through your options and provide honest advice about tiling and restoration. Contact our expert team today on 0427 241 224.

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