How long do concrete roofing tiles last? It depends on manufacturers, but some companies offer a 50-year limited warranty on our product and the warranty is based on water passing through the product. Introduced...
Introduced in the 19th century, concrete roofs are known to have lasted 100 years and longer. In Europe some manufacturers offer 100-year or lifetime warranties. Andy Dolan of Columbia Concrete Products, Ltd. in Canada says his 35-year-old company offers 50-year limited warranties on their concrete roofing tile products. "Our warranty is based on the high freeze cycles that we get. Quite simply we put 50 years on it because we have been manufacturing for 35. We think it is a tangible warranty," he says.
Concrete roofing tiles have proven to be resistant to elements like extreme temperatures, hurricane force winds, fire, and even earthquakes. High temperatures and the freeze-thaw cycle in extreme climates cause increased deterioration in most roofing materials, especially asphalt and wood shake shingles. A concrete roof system can be expected to endure for the lifetime of the building under most conditions with little need for repair. Dolan also notes that concrete roofing tiles are performing very well in high pollution areas as well as areas that experience extreme sunlight. In comparison to wood shake shingles, concrete tiles are also resistant to moisture damage and termites. In comparison to clay roofing tiles, concrete tiles are slightly more durable and are a cheaper alternative.
Concrete tiles are vulnerable only to heavy impact, which can cause shattering or breaking, but the tiles are simple to replace. In detail concrete roofing tiles are non-combustible and are classified as Class A in fire ratings, the highest rating. They also usually receive a Class 3 rating in relation to hail resistance. In the event of being subjected to high winds, concrete tiles can sustain heavy winds up to 125 miles an hour.
Concrete tiles also offer savings in energy costs by making a home more energy efficient. The concrete absorbs heat during the day and releases it quickly at night, making heating and cooling the home easier and helping to prevent the accumulation of ice in the winter months. Concrete tiles are also more environmentally friendly because they are made from widely available natural materials and do not require the use of chemicals in their production. Another environmental benefit is that they don't require replacement every 20 to 30 years as most composite shingles. These discarded composite shingles take up a great deal of landfill space, which is avoided by the use of concrete tiles. Concrete tiles can also be recycled into new roofing tiles or other products.
Because of their resistance to so many elements including fire, many insurance companies offer a discount for homes with concrete tile roofing, further increasing their value to the homeowner. Real estate agents also note the increased resale value and appeal of homes with concrete tile roofing.
You can learn more about concrete tile roofing from a professional roofing contractor who specializes in concrete roof systems or by visiting the showroom or website of a concrete tile manufacturer. Many will provide photos of completed projects and samples of the different styles and designs available.
