What’s the Best Arizona Roof Material: Tile or Shingles, Clay Tiles or Concrete Tiles?

Are looking to build a home in Arizona? How about restoring a roof to an existing condition in Arizona? Either way, it is good to know what roofing material is best in Arizona. Different areas all over the United States have different weather conditions and some material is just not made for certain places. You want the best.

Let’s look into some of the best roofing materials for the state of Arizona.

Should You Use Tile or Shingles?

This is mainly based on budget. There are a lot of reasons one would choose tiles over shingles, but most of that is strictly due to preference. The cost for shingles and tiles do have price differences and sometimes a roof cannot hold the weight of tiles. So, which one to choose. Here are some basics to each and you pick what you think is best.

Shingles

Shingles are highly used all over the United States. They are reliable and can last up to 15 years or more depending on the shingle. Some shingles have been known to last over 30 years! That is the higher end ones, though, and cost a pretty penny.

There are two types of shingles. One is called the 3-tab. They can come in almost any style you want them to. These are the ones that last for 15-25 years. The other is the ones that can last up to 30 years or more, and they are called Architectural Shingles.

Tiles

As I learned from by asking a few Tucson Roofers, tile roofing is highly durable. Did you know that tile roofing can last up to 75 years? No wonder the price is much higher! That is essentially an entire lifetime. It sure must take the stress of worrying about a roof off from over your head.

The underlayment has to be changed every 30 years, but the existing tiles can be reused on the roof. (reference: Roofers Tucson Az)

Tiles for roofing can be made of slate, clay or even concrete.

Clay Tiles or Concrete Tiles?

Now you are probably wondering if you should purchase clay or concrete tiles. I have some answers. There is only one way to know…see the differences and decide.

Clay Tile Features

• Class A Fire Tested
• Hail Impact Tested
• High Wind Tested
• Lasts an Entire Lifetime
• Holds Color Longer than Concrete Tiles
• Price for Clay is Much Higher.

Concrete Tile Features

• The price is much less than clay tiles.
• Class A Fire Tested
• Hail Impact Tested
• High Wind Tested
• The lifetime of Concrete tiles is 50 years.

Let’s Take a Look at the Price.

We know that the price of clay tiles and concrete tiles can differ, but how much of a difference are we talking about here when it comes to shingles? The price of shingles can range from $150 to $300 per square foot. The prices vary by the type of shingle you get. As for tiles, the price can range from $700 to $1,000 per square foot.

Big price differences, huh? Do take into account that the lifetime of each product is different. When you invest that amount of money, you are getting what you pay for. It really depends on your budget with what you get. In the end, a roof is a roof over your head. If you don’t have the budget for tiles, understandable. Shingles are a great alternative.

• Sometimes the weight of tiles on a roof can be too much. So, do take note of the weight limit before you make your decision.

Why Are Tile Roof’s Popular in Arizona?

A tremendous amount of people in Arizona chose to have tile roofing on their homes. The reasons are primarily due to the climate and the lifespan of tile roofing. Tile roofing sheds water more easily than shingles do. Another thing is that the tile acts as a cooling agent. The summer can get very hot in Arizona, so it is important to have a roof that can combat that heat.

Did I mention the look? A lot of people choose the tile material for the look too. Of course, that is not the sole reason, but it does play a part. Tile roofs just have a stunning design to them. Let me go over the benefits once again of tile roofing.

• Curb Appeal.
• Long Lasting.
• Highly Durable.
• Holds Color

Just these factors alone tell me that tile is the way to go. If you can budget tiles in, I would say go for it if the weight is not too much for the roof.

Here Are Some Last Notes

Arizona roofs need something strong to stand against the heat. You can find more information on which material is best from Bob Villa in the link.

Also, there is this video from youtube.com that may be of some help too/.