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Clay vs. Concrete: Which is Best for Your FL Home?

Jul 01, 2022

While concrete and clay roofs are very similar, there are a few major differences to be considered before choosing a material.

Florida weather can be especially tough on roofs. Roofing systems can really take a beating from the hurricane winds and the relentless sun. When a homeowner is in the market for a new roofing system for their home it is essential to make a smart roofing choice. Today Istueta Roofing in Miami, FL, compares two roofing options: clay and concrete.

 

Clay Tile Roof
Clay Tile Roof

Clay Roof Tiles:

These tiles are created by shaping clay into a tile shape and baking them until they’re hard. The density of the clay tile is controlled by how long it’s heated and the temperature used.

 

There’s a wide variety of profiles, styles, colors, and finishes. Clay tiles are environmentally friendly, they’re made from an all-natural material, free of synthetic materials, free of toxic chemicals, and at the end of their life, clay tiles can be crushed and re-introduced into tile production, or put to other uses such as baseball fields, or landscaping.

 

 

Concrete Tile Roof
Concrete Tile Roof

Concrete Roof Tiles:

These roof tiles are produced with standard concrete by mixing cement, aggregate, and water. It is then poured into molds and heated.

 

While the concrete tiles can remain gray, you can paint them or add color to the mix. Concrete tiles can mimic the look of other kinds of roofing, including wood shake, slate, stone, or clay tiles, by altering the mold design. Manufacturers can also make them in different sizes.

 

9 Differences

 

While concrete and clay roofs are very similar, there are a few major differences to be considered before choosing a material.

 

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Water Absorption

One of the biggest differences between concrete and clay roof tiles is how they absorb water. Concrete tiles have a water absorption of about 13%, and clay tiles have a water absorption of about 6%. As a result, concrete tiles may be more prone to mildew growth and stains. Clay tiles have few issues due to their low water absorption rate.

 

Salt Intrusion

Clay tiles have much lower salt air intrusion than concrete.
Concrete porosity allows salt air to infiltrate and cause premature degradation, including reduced transverse breaking strength.

 

Weight

There is a substantial difference in the dry weight of concrete vs. clay tile roofs in Miami, FL. Concrete tiles weigh nearly 40 percent more than clay tiles, so you have to make sure your roof structure can bear the weight before installing them.

 

Color

Clay has better and longer color retention – whether Grade 1, Grade 2, or even some Grade 3 Clay. Concrete has no color warranty from any manufacturer. Clay manufacturers sometimes have a color warranty ranging up to 75 years non-prorated.

 

Efflorescence

Concrete roof tiles can experience efflorescence. This is a chemical reaction caused by the nature of the cement that appears as a white powdery substance on the surface of the concrete tiles, affecting aesthetically the color of the tile. Clay tiles cannot have any efflorescence.

 

Durability

Clay Grade 1 and Grade 2 have a longer lifespan than concrete. The oldest roofs in Florida are clay tile. Some are over 100 years old.

 

Maintenance

Concrete with a much higher moisture absorbency has a significantly increased likelihood of algae staining, and airborne debris (dust and soil), which requires more maintenance on concrete roofing in FL. Since clay tiles do not have those issues, there are not many challenges that come with maintaining a clay tile roof. Although maintenance may also depend on where the property is located if it’s surrounded by many trees may require two or three maintenance per year.

 

Cost

The cost of concrete and clay tiles may vary depending on the profile, color, and manufacturer.

 

Top Takeaway!🔥

Moisture Absorbency and Salt Air Intrusion are the primary factors that determine the durability and longevity of a Roof Tile. Here in South Florida – it is moisture absorption and salt air intrusion that degrades roof tiles, causing degradation of color, and eventual product failure. Make sure to consider these factors when buying a new roof.

 

If you’re undecided about the type of roofing that is best for your home, trust the experts at Istueta Roofing in Miami, FL. Call us today at (305) 671-9190 or schedule a consultation online here.

Your Journey with Us

Your peace of mind is our priority. With a detailed process in place, your project will run seamlessly every step of the way. No unpleasant surprises - ever. Your journey begins with a personalized consultation. Contact us today to schedule yours.

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Step One
Initial Consultation

During your initial estimate, a roofing consultant will meet with you, learn more about your roofing needs, and share how we can provide a solution you can trust.

Step Two
Visit Our Showroom

After your consultation, we’ll invite you to our showroom, where you can see our gorgeous tile roofing and other options in person.

Step Three
Custom Solution

Once the work begins, you can trust our roofing professionals to display only top-tier craftsmanship at every step of the installation.

Step Four
Start Your New Project

Istueta Roofing will arrive on time to start your new roof and will keep you updated throughout the installation.

Step Five
Enjoy Your New Roof

Your new roof will be designed for the utmost curb appeal and weather protection. Rest easy knowing you’ll never have to worry about your roof again.

Step Six
Maintain Your Roof

Do you have questions or need help maintaining your roof? Istueta Roofing will be available to you for ongoing maintenance and any queries that you may have.