Clay Tile vs. Metal Roofing: Which is the Best Option for Your Home

Clay tile roofs have a long and varied history, dating back to 10,000 B.C. Clay tile roofs arrived in the U.S. through European settlers in the 1600s and surged in popularity in the mid-1800s, as Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture was in favor.

Clay tile was once the most popular roofing material of its time, far superior to wood for fire resistance and durability, with aesthetics that flat asphalt shingles or woodcut shakes simply couldn’t match.

But there is a high price to be paid with clay tile roofing, as it is one of most fragile,  high-maintenance and heaviest roofing materials on the market. If you need more professional advice, pls leave your contact information.

Today, discerning homeowners have moved away from high-maintenance clay tile to metal roofing. Metal roofing achieves the same aesthetics as clay tile, but offers homeowners the high-performance strength that only metal can provide.

What is Clay Tile Roofing? 

Clay tile roofs are made from natural materials like molded clay or terracotta, then baked at high temperatures.

While clay tile is beautiful and an architectural must for Spanish and Mediterranean-themed homes, it has substantial shortcomings when it comes to performance.

One of the most significant challenges of clay tile roofing is that it is extremely delicate and high maintenance. Clay tiles are prone to cracking and breaking over time, especially during harsh weather conditions, such as hail and high winds. Repairing these tiles can be a tedious, expensive and time-consuming process. Clay tiles are so fragile that just walking on a clay tile roof for routine maintenance can cause damage.

Clay tile roofing is also one of the heaviest roofing materials on the market. When it comes to roofing, heavier is not better. A lightweight roofing material is ideal since some homes are not built to withstand a top-heavy roof, and the weight can put pressure on the home over time and potentially result in structural damage.

What is Metal Roofing? 

Metal roofing has been used in the industrial sector for centuries due to its durability, longevity and energy efficiency. However, it wasn't widely used in residential settings because homeowners perceived it as "too industrial looking."

This changed when stone-coated metal roofing was introduced in 1957.

While all types of metal roofing provide industrial-strength durability, some metal roofing materials–such as aluminum, copper, corrugated, and standing seam–have limited aesthetics and design versatility. This is particularly true for complex or classical architectural themes with cupolas, gables, towers, multiple valleys and elaborate facades.

When stone-coated metal roofing entered the market, it offered homeowners the high-performance strength of metal roofing without sacrificing on style.

Which is Better: Clay Tile or Metal Roofing? 

One of the most significant advantages of metal roofing over clay tile roofing is its durability and longevity.

Metal roofs are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as high winds and hail, and many metal roofs come with a Lifetime Limited Warranty for winds over 120mph and hail penetration up to 2.5” in diameter.

While clay tile adds a distinct charm and aesthetic, metal roofing is the superior choice in terms of performance, strength, durability, longevity and more.

Metal roofing also comes out on top when it comes to:

· Maintenance and Repair Costs: A clay tile roof requires regular cleaning, inspections and repairs. Metal roofing is little-to-no maintenance. An annual cleaning to remove dirt or debris will do.

· Weight and Structural Requirements: Clay tile roofing is heavy and requires a strong support structure to bear its weight, which can drive up installation costs. A top-heavy roof is not ideal in regions prone to earthquakes, high winds or heavy snow. In contrast, metal roofing is one of the lightest roofing materials on the market.

With stone-coated metal roofing, homeowners don’t have to choose between strength or style since stone-coated metal roofing will effortlessly replicate the look and charm of clay tile.