Terracotta vs Concrete Roof Tiles: Which is Better?

From clay tile roof materials, concrete and terracotta, selecting a roofing material is a critical decision when building or renovating your home. The two noteworthy alternatives consistently leading the choices are terracotta and concrete roof tiles.

Depending on several variables, including aesthetic preferences, maintenance needs, durability concerns, and climatic conditions, homeowners are often found debating terracotta vs concrete roof tiles: which is better?

In this article, we deconstruct the prime differences between these popular roof tiling materials, assessing their advantages and drawbacks.

Understanding Terracotta Roof Tiles

Terracotta roof tiles, also termed clay roof tiles, are an ancient roofing material produced by baking moulded clay. The term “terracotta” itself denotes “baked earth” emanating from the Latin language.

Aesthetics and Variety

The most eye-catching feature of terracotta roofing is the rustic, timeless beauty it offers your abode. The tiles tend to have a reddish-brown hue owing to the natural colour of the clay. However, terracotta tiles can be glazed and stained in a plethora of other hues, offering a broad gamut of colours for aesthetic preferences.

Durability of Terracotta Tiles

When contemplating terracotta roofs, think of structures like the White House and Rome’s Pantheon. Yes, the history of terracotta tiles’ durability can be traced back centuries, with the material having an established reputation for a long lifespan. They are extremely durable, with the potential to last for more than 50 years if maintained properly.

Moreover, terracotta tiles demonstrate resilience towards high temperatures and freezing temperatures, making them a suitable choice across varied climates. They can withstand high winds, hail storms and marine environments exceptionally well.

Maintenance and Environmental Impact

Terracotta tiles generally require low maintenance. They are resistant to mildew growth, a sought-after trait in damp climates. They exhibit excellent resistance to insect damage as well.

Terracotta is a non-toxic material, making it an eco-friendly choice. Furthermore, at the end of their lifespan, terracotta tiles can be recycled, adding another tick to their name on the list of environmentally sustainable choices.

Concrete Tiles: Solid but Simple

Opposing the old-world charm of terracotta tiles are practical, neat concrete roof tiles. Concrete tiles are a mix of cement, sand and water, moulded under high heat and pressure.

• Aesthetics of concrete roofing: Concrete roof tiles offer simplicity and neatness that can blend well with various architectural styles. Even though the most common colour is a range of greys, manufacturers can produce tiles to mimic natural slate and even clay tiles.
• Strength and longevity of concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are incredibly robust. They are non-combustible and are resistant to damage from hail and high winds. Despite their tough exterior, concrete tiles can break if someone walks on them, requiring professional maintenance experts for any repairs or services. When it comes to longevity, concrete roof tiles can last as long as terracotta tiles, ringing in at about 50 years. However, the specific environment, maintenance routine and installation quality can influence this lifespan.
• The eco-friendly and maintenance aspect: The eco-friendly factor of concrete tiles is mixed. While they reduce energy consumption due to their high thermal mass, their manufacturing process is energy-intensive.

Disadvantages of Terracotta and Concrete Roof Tiles

No roof tile is without its drawbacks. Terracotta tiles, although long-lasting, can be brittle and prone to cracking under heavy impact. Their higher absorption rates can also make them susceptible to frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Concrete tiles also have their drawbacks. They have a higher water absorption rate, increasing their vulnerability to moss growth. The tiles’ heavy weight could necessitate structural reinforcement, adding to the complexity of installation and increasing installation costs per square metre.

Also, colour fading is often an issue with concrete roofing. It can lose its vibrancy faster than terracotta roofing, which retains its colour due to the baked-in natural clay pigments.

What are the Alternatives?

If terracotta and concrete roof tiles don’t quite fit your needs, there are plenty of other roofing materials to consider. Each comes with its own set of benefits, so choosing the right one depends on factors like budget, durability, and aesthetics.

Here are some popular alternatives:

• Metal roofing – A lightweight, durable option that resists rust and extreme weather conditions. Metal roofing is available in different styles, including corrugated sheets and modern standing seam designs.
• Slate tiles – A natural stone roofing material known for its stunning appearance and longevity. While expensive, it can last over a century with proper care.
• Asphalt shingles – A budget-friendly choice that’s easy to install and available in various colours and styles. However, it has a shorter lifespan compared to tiles or metal.
• Solar tiles – A modern solution that combines roofing with energy efficiency. These tiles generate electricity while protecting your home, though the upfront cost can be high.
• Composite tiles – Made from a mix of recycled materials, these tiles mimic the look of slate or wood while being lighter and more affordable.

No matter the material, it’s essential to consider your climate, budget and maintenance preferences before making a final decision.

Terracotta or Concrete Tile Roof?

Both terracotta and concrete roofing tiles offer sound advantages. If classic aesthetics and colour longevity are your priority, terracotta tiles can be a winner. But if you yearn for a more modern appearance with the robustness to match, consider concrete tiles.

Remember that both materials require professional installation to ensure they are fitted correctly for optimal performance. Whether you select terracotta or concrete, ensure to hire an expert team for installation, requiring less long-term maintenance and offering the best longevity for your chosen material.

When it comes to your roofing, there’s no room for shortcuts or compromises. Leave it to the experts and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your home’s roof is in safe hands.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.

FAQs: Terracotta vs Concrete Roof Tiles: Which is Better?

Do you have any questions about terracotta vs concrete roof tiles? We’ve got answers to the most common questions below.

Which is more durable − terracotta or concrete roof tiles?

Both terracotta and concrete tiles are built to last, but terracotta has the edge when it comes to longevity. Terracotta tiles are made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures, making them highly resistant to weathering and fading. They can last more than 50 years with proper maintenance.

Concrete tiles, on the other hand, are extremely strong but tend to absorb more moisture, which can lead to wear and discoloration over time. They typically last 30 to 50 years before needing replacement. If long-term durability is your top priority, terracotta is the better choice.

Are concrete roof tiles cheaper than terracotta?

Yes, concrete tiles are more budget-friendly than terracotta. Concrete is less expensive to manufacture, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable yet cost-effective roofing solution. Terracotta, being a natural material with a more labor-intensive production process, tends to be more expensive upfront.

However, its longer lifespan and resistance to fading can make it a better long-term investment. If you’re working with a tight budget, concrete is the way to go, but if you want a premium, long-lasting option, terracotta might be worth the extra cost.

Which type of tile is better for energy efficiency?

Terracotta tiles have superior thermal properties, making them excellent for insulation. Their natural clay composition helps regulate indoor temperatures by keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

This can lead to lower energy bills over time. Concrete tiles also offer good insulation but tend to absorb and retain heat more than terracotta, which can make a difference in hotter climates. If energy efficiency and comfort are key concerns, terracotta is the better option.