If you live in Florida, you know how essential it is to have a good quality roof. Intense thunderstorms, long periods of sunshine, and strong winds are external factors roof material need to endure. Clay and slate tile roofs are perfect roofing materials for residential and commercial Florida roofs.
Benefits of Clay and Slate Tile Roofs
Floridians have been using tile roofs for many years, for a good reason. They have many benefits compared to asphalt, wood, and metal roofs.
Slate and tile roofing options are popular in Florida for several reasons, including aesthetic appeal and extended lifespan. Natural slate is one of the most distinctive roofing materials available, and its versatility of style and color makes it an excellent choice for almost any type of architecture. If you want your home or business to have a timeless look, clay roof tiles or slate roofing shingles are excellent roofing options.
Along with enhanced curb appeal and longevity, New Image Roofing finds both clay tile and slate roofing offer tremendous benefits, including:
- Severe wind resistance
- Complete fire resistance
- Reflects UV rays and direct sunlight
- Ample insect and pest resistance
- Boosted hail durability
- Eco-friendly material and recyclable
- Increased energy efficiency
- Lower required maintenance
How Long Does a Tile Roof Last in Florida?
Both roofing materials are often referred to as “lifetime roofs” because they are long-lasting. When installed and maintained correctly, a tile roof can last 100 years or more, while a slate roof can last up to 150 years—much longer than traditional roofing materials like concrete tiles (50 years) and asphalt shingles (20 years).
Combined with roof inspections, tile roofs can gain increased life expectancy.
Types of Tile Roofing
There are many types of slate roofing, including graduated, standard, random width, staggered butt, mixed color, textural, and inscribed. Synthetic slate roofing is becoming more popular because it is less expensive and more durable than real slate.
Roofing contractors install clay and concrete tiled roofs in various shapes and sizes, including Mission, French, interlocking, and Spanish styles. Most people picture reddish-orange barrel tiles when they think of clay roof tiles, but they are available in multiple colors.
External Forces
Weather conditions are one of the leading reasons for clay and slate tile roofs. They offer many resistances against Florida weather.
Storms, Severe Winds, and Intense Sunshine
Storms are a weekly, daily, or hourly event in Florida, meaning water is always a factor. Water is one of the leading enemies of roofs. Water can sit on roofs or be absorbed and cause structural damage. Slate tiles don’t absorb moisture or easily erode, making them perfect contrast against rain storms.
Major storms often see high winds accompanying them. Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring winds over 100 miles per hour, enough to rip off shingles easily. Luckily, clay and slate tiles resist high winds, protecting your roof during these severe storms.
And lastly, intense heat and sunlight can devastate roofing material. Sunlight and rain can also cause thermal shock—expanding and contracting of roofs when changed from hot to cold. Thermal shock can result in cracked and chipped shingles. Luckily, clay and slate tile are resilient to this negative effect.
Rising Popularity of Composite Tiles
Even though builders have used clay tiles for hundreds of years, there are new technologies for building owners to consider. Composite tiles are a special rubber material molded into the shape and color of clay tiles. They have similar weather protection as clay tiles and their installation is much cheaper because they don’t need additional structure.
Choose New Image Roofing Florida for Tile Installation, Repair, and Renovation
New Image Roofing Florida has been installing tile and slate roofs in Florida for many years. Our professional roofing contractors know how to handle, install, repair, and maintain tile roofing systems. We can help extend the tile roof lifespan of Florida homes and businesses. New Image Roofing Florida is the only roofing company you need.
Contact New Image Roofing Florida today.
