Concrete Roof Tiles and the Perfect Solution
While Concrete Roof Tiles have become a viable roofing alternative for homeowners, they do pose some concerns. It is important for homeowners to understand that concrete roofing materials are climate specific, in hot climates they can perform well, however in other climates they may pose a risk.
How are Concrete Roof Tiles Made?
Concrete roof tiles are made from a mixture of water, sand, and cement, which is molded under high pressure and heat. The surface color is made by using a paint like material designed for concrete applications. Concrete tiles are manufactured to simulate the appearance of traditional clay tiles, slate, stone, and wood shakes. Concrete roof tiles are available in three basic profiles: mission S-tiles (or "Spanish S"), villa tiles (low-profile tiles with a double-S shape), and flat tiles, which are often designed to look like wood shakes or slate.
Weight is a Serious Concern
For homes where weight is a concern, many concrete tile manufacturers offer lightweight options, however those options still weigh 5.5 - 7.5 pounds per square. Standard-weight concrete roof tiles generally weigh between 9.5 to 12 pounds per square foot (the roofing industry considers 1 square as a 10’ ft x 10 ft area on your roof).. Even concrete roofing products that are labeled as “lightweight concrete tiles” by the manufacturers are made with a lightweight aggregate, like expanded shale, instead of sand, and they are also heavy because concrete by design is an extremely dense material. By comparison, CeDUR Roofing Shakes are just an astonishing 1.7 pounds per square.
Combination of Moisture and Concrete Is Troublesome
Concrete roof tiles have a water absorption of approximately 13%. This higher rate of water absorption can lead to the development of mildew and stains. Water absorption also increases the already heavy weight of concrete tile and puts increased pressure on the roof structure. Moisture intrusion can cause cracking and splitting which may lead to out of pocket repairs for homeowners.
Breakability and Weathering Issues
While concrete roofing tile is a good option for homeowners living in warmer climates, during extreme weather events such as a hail storm, concrete is prone to breakability and weathering issues such as cracking and splitting. If you live in a hail prone environment, your concrete roof may experience breakability issues and should not be considered as an option for you.
Do you live in an earthquake prone environment?
For homeowners living in states like California, Nevada, Alaska, Washington, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Utah, having a concrete roof can be risky. Due to the extreme weight of concrete roof tiles, a concrete roof has a higher chance of collapsing so consulting with a structural engineer prior to installation is recommended.
CeDUR Roofing Systems | The Best Alternative to Clay Roofing Tiles and Cement Tile
For a better alternative to concrete roof tiles, consider CeDUR synthetic cedar shake shingles. CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes are modeled after traditional wood shake shingles but made of a polyurethane material that does not absorb water and is very lightweight, durable, and beautiful.
CeDUR’s shakes have a Class 4 Impact Rating, meaning that they are strong enough to withstand strong winds and hard impacts. They also have a stand alone Class A Fire Rating, so there is no fear of them catching on fire, like other roofing materials.
Best of all is the fact that unlike concrete roof tiles, CeDUR shakes are maintenance free and never need painting or repairs and will last for years to come. They will not split or crack and you do not need to consult with a structural engineer prior to installation.
While concrete roof tiles are a common roofing option, they are certainly not the only one, nor are they the best. Considering the various disadvantages that come with a concrete roof, it is best to consider other more affordable and easy to maintain options. CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes are a fantastic alternative that is lightweight, durable, and maintenance free. Beyond that, it is a beautiful option that will last far longer than most roofing options.