In this guide

Roof Shingles vs Tiles

When you’re doing a tile vs shingle roof comparison, the first and most important thing you should consider is the cost difference. A shingle roof costs $2.50 to $25 per sq. ft. depending on the exact material used. Installing a tile roof is a project for which homeowners pay around $7 to $41 per sq. ft. for the material and labor.

Another major difference between the two is that tiles are more versatile in color and shape but are more difficult to install, so they come at a higher cost. When it comes to durability, tiles also top shingles by supporting more weight and lasting twice as long. However, they are heavier, and not all home constructions can support the weight of this type of roofing.

Roof Tile Cost per Square Foot

Tile roofing can be anywhere between $7 and $41 per sq. ft. This cost includes all preparations for installation, materials, and the labor costs to install it. The big discrepancy in price is because of the multiple cost factors involved in the installation. The type of tile, its material, the pitch of the roof, roofing style, brand of tiles, and the roofer that will install the roof are just some of the main factors that determine how much a new tile roof costs.

Roof Tiles Types and Prices

The type of tile affects the overall project cost the most. Tile prices vary anywhere between $1.50 and $25 per sq. ft. without installation. Each roof tile type also requires a different installation method, which adds a different cost to the overall project. Every tile type is made of a different material with its own advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you analyze what you need to pick the right roofing type for your home.

Slate Roof Tiles Cost

The cost to install slate roof tiles is between $1.50 and $30 per sq. ft., depending on the grade ¹, thickness, and overall quality of the slate ² tiles you will use. The big discrepancy in cost is that some slate types, such as synthetic slate tiles, are more affordable than regular slate. Synthetic slate tiles are made of plastic and rubber, so they can be recycled and reused, which is another benefit of this type of roofing. However, synthetic slate roofs aren’t recommended in areas with a harsher climate as they can curl, crack, and disintegrate because of it.

While the material itself can be quite affordable, the installation is one of the most expensive. Each slate is individually drilled to make a hole in it and nail it to the roof, which is a time-consuming process that adds to the cost of the project. However, once installed, slate roofs are one of the most durable and high-quality roof materials you can use that can last up to 150 years, more than any other roofing type.

Concrete Roof Tiles Cost

Concrete roof tiles cost $3 to $20 per sq. ft., depending on the design, texture, and color of the tile. They are made from a mixture of sand and Portland cement, often with added binders, resins, and pigments. These tiles can last 50 years or more, depending on the conditions. A major advantage of concrete roofs is that they have a Class A fire rating, resist insects and moisture, and don’t rot. On the downside though, concrete tiles are pretty heavy, so many roofs would need reinforcement before supporting this type of roof.

Composite Roof Tiles Cost

Costing only $4 to $16 per sq. ft., composite tiles are among the cheapest roofing materials you can pick for your home. Composite tile roofing installation is also easier compared to some other materials that are more difficult to use. They are one of the most versatile roofing materials that can be installed in any color or blend, giving homeowners the freedom to choose the appearance of their roof. The biggest downside of composition roofing ³ is that if it’s made of low-quality materials, it can soak, freeze, or warp. However, if they are blended with high-quality materials, they can last up to 50 years.

Metal Roof Tiles Prices

Metal roofing can be made of various types of metal, including aluminum, steel, zinc, copper, stainless steel, and titanium, depending on the homeowner’s preference. Each of these comes at a different cost in a range of $6 to $15 per sq. ft. Although they are more difficult to install and repair, they are extremely easy to maintain and are one of the most durable roofing materials that can last up to 100 years.

Synthetic Barrel Roof Tiles

Made from 100% recycled materials, synthetic barrel roof tiles can be found for $8 to $16 per sq. ft. These tiles come in various colors, shapes, and textures, giving the roof a unique look. They offer excellent protection from the elements, as they are made from weather-resistant composite materials. Its installation is quite simple and involves using only a nail gun without any reinforcement or preparation.

Solar Roof Tiles Cost

The average cost of solar tiles is around $12 to $25 per sq. ft. for the materials only, making them the most expensive roofing materials currently on the market. Currently, Tesla is the most popular manufacturer of solar tiles in the U.S. You will mostly find its models on the market. Although the cost may be high, many states have tax incentives that go up to 30% of the price to lower the overall project cost. The obvious reason for the popularity of solar panels is their energy efficiency and long warranty that can go up to 25 years. The downside of solar tiles, on the other hand, is the high installation cost and complicated maintenance.

Clay Roof Tiles Cost

If you opt to have clay tiles installed, the roofing materials will cost you between $15 and $20 per sq. ft. Clay tiles are made by baking molded clay and can have different densities depending on the length of time and temperature at which the clay was heated. It comes in different shades of white, yellow, orange, and brown, with the most common color being called Terra-Cotta. Clay tiles are resistant to fire, hail, and strong winds and provide high insulation due to their thickness, but are more difficult and expensive to install.

Ceramic Roof Tile Cost

Ceramic tiles, also known as porcelain tiles, cost $15 to $20 per sq. ft. They are both types of tiles made of fired clay mixed with water and then enhanced with some additives like feldspar, petuntse, and quartz sand. The color of ceramic roof tiles varies from gray to reddish depending on the exact mixture used to make them and the temperature at which they were baked.

Terracotta is one of the most popular types of ceramic materials used on tile roofs, among other things. It’s made of natural clay, which is why it has a natural reddish-brown color and can be enhanced with other additives to improve its color, design, look, and durability. Terracotta tiles have a higher absorption rate than regular ceramic tiles but are less resistant to freezing temperatures and impact.

Roof Tiling Cost by Type of Tile

Depending on the look you want, you can opt to have flat or curved tiles installed for $3 to $20 per sq. ft. for the material only. The installation cost is determined by the material of the tile and the pitch of the roof, with the most common roofs being concrete in a Spanish style. The shape and type of tile also determine the cost to install a tile roof, with most models being flat or curved.

Flat Tile Roof Cost

Flat tile roofs are more affordable than curved tiles and typically cost homeowners $3 to $15 per sq. ft. for the material only. As their name suggests, the tiles are flat and don’t have any texture, but they can be painted to resemble clay, slate, or wood roofs to give homeowners the option to personalize the roof. Most people install flat roofs because of their durability, versatility, and strength. However, keep in mind that roof tiles can’t be used on roof pitches lower than 4:12, or else they won’t drain the water properly. As tiles are heavy, the roof may also need additional support to withstand the whole weight of the structure, which adds to the price.

Curved Roof Tiles

Curved roof tiles are more decorative than flat roofs, so they cost more. Their cost is $8 to $20 per sq. ft. The price of the tile is determined by the curvature. The more intricate it is, the higher the price will be. The most popular curved tiles are the S-shaped ones that are commonly seen on roofs. Because of their shape, curved tiles are very resistant to rot and mold build up, so they are installed in areas where there is high humidity.

Roofing Tiles Price by Manufacturer

Several manufacturers sell roof tiles for a cost of $3 to $15 per sq. ft. Each specializes in a particular material and type of tile, with most of them selling clay or concrete tiles in various styles, shapes, patterns, and colors. The leading manufacturers and the cost for which they sell their tile products are presented below.

Boral Roof Tiles Price

Boral roofing tiles cost $3 to $5 per sq. ft. They are one of the most popular and the largest concrete and clay tile manufacturers with over 12 production facilities across the U.S. and Canada. To back up their quality, they offer a Transferable 50-year Product Warranty that includes color fade (limited coverage) for all tiles they install.

Eagle Roof Tile Prices

The average cost for Eagle tile roofing products is between $4 and $7 per sq. ft. They are another popular choice for roofing materials because of the 25-year labor warranty they offer that covers any roof failure. Like Boral Roof Tiles, Eagle has several options of concrete tiles that are very affordable.

Auburn Tile Roof Cost

The average cost of Auburn concrete tile roofs is between $6 and $10 per sq. ft. One of their most popular products is their flat style of concrete roofing tiles that are smaller in size and have a natural "broken leading edge." Their concrete tiles are produced in several series that come in various colors and shapes.

Ludowici Roof Tile Cost

Ludowici is the leading manufacturer of terracotta products, including roof tiles that cost $4 to $9 per sq. ft. As a brand with over 130 years of experience in the tile manufacturing business, Ludowici is a reliable brand that claims to produce one of the highest quality clay tiles on the market. They produce over 40 types of clay tiles backed with a 75-year warranty.

Tile Roof Installation Cost

Labor costs to install tile roofing are between $4 and $16. The price varies due to several factors such as the material used, the roof deck on which the roof is being installed, the pitch of the roof, tile style, roof decorations, and whether or not underlayment ⁴, old roofing removal, and reinforcement would be needed. This means that to install a 1,500 sq. ft. roof, you would pay an average cost of $6,000 to $24,000 for labor costs only.

While every tile roof installation may differ to give you a unique roof, there are some things in common. Nearly every roof installation will include an inspection of the roof deck and removing the current material. If the deck requires reinforcement or repair, it will be done before installing the felt underlayment, protecting the roof deck from moisture and giving a surface for the tiles to be installed.

Depending on the type of roof you have, you may also need ridge tiles where two sides meet, apex tiles where three sides come to a point, end caps ⁵ or hip ends where the ridges finish, and verge tiles to protect the roof beams on the underside of the roof edge. These items are usually included in the labor cost. Vents and other openings will need covers, cowls, or caps to protect them. Each of these things will be unique to the style and material of tile you have chosen for your roof and will require different installation practices for each.

Below is a table with a breakdown of the common installation steps and costs for having a 1,500 sq. ft. roof installed in your home. Keep in mind that the costs may vary from our average range as not all roofs will require every step of the installation. Tiles and labor are considered mandatory, while roof inspection, sealant, and reinforcement may be required or preferred by the homeowner. They aren’t always mandatory steps to install a tile roof.

Roof Tiles Styles

The cost to install a tile roof isn’t overly impacted by the style. In most cases, there is only a negligible difference in cost between styles. The tile material drives most of the price point. The most common type of tile roof is the Spanish-tile, the curved clay tile most commonly seen in southern states. However, this isn’t the only tile roof style. More concrete and clay tile manufacturers offer a wide range of designs.

Plain Roof Tiles

The traditional look and versatility of plain roof tiles make them easy to install on many property styles and pitches. As its name suggests, plain roof tiles are the most common and basic roof types known as flat tile roofs. The biggest advantage is that they are one of the most affordable roofing styles available and come in a variety of patterns. Because of their basic look, they are not as decorative as other tile roofs.

Mission Style Roof Tiles

Mission style roof tiles are one of the tiles with a more complex installation process because of their shape. They are also known as “Double Roman” tiles and have distinct ribs that give them their Mediterranean look. Due to their size and round shape, mission style roof tiles are often used as a hip and ridge tile.

Interlocking Roof Tiles

Interlocking roof tiles can be smooth or granular in appearance and installed in a single lap. Interlocking roof tiles are connected to each other and to the roof by side joints that facilitate the installation. When installed in the common metal color, they give a classic look to the roof. Other colors and material variations are slightly more difficult to find.

Spanish Style Roof Tiles

Spanish tiles or Mediterranean tiles are the most common type of tile roofs in the South. Spanish style roofs look like rows of waves because of the S-shaped tiles. They are made of clay, which is why they are ideal for areas with heavy rainfalls. On the downside, some clay tiles may crack during installation. The roofer has to be extra careful when installing these types of tiles.

Pantile Roof Tiles

A pantile roof is a single-lap, S-shaped roof tile made of fired clay. It comes in many different shapes and patterns, allowing homeowners to choose the roof design that matches their personal preference. However, whenever the roof needs repairing, the homeowner would have to find the exact color, shape, and dimension of the current tiles, which increases the maintenance costs.

French Roof Tiles

Profile tiles, the name French roof tiles are known for, are very similar to Double Roman tile, but instead of having humps, they have indents. They are very durable because of the installation that requires roofers to tightly fit each tile, increasing the speed of water runoff. Roofers also need special roof caps and edge pieces to install French roof tiles, which slightly affects the overall project cost.

Riviera Roof Tiles

Riviera roof tiles have a rigid design with a closely repeating pattern that resembles Mission style tiles but have more intricate ridges and a flatter surface in between. Riviera roof tiles give the roof a symmetrical and unique look with deep shadows but are slightly difficult to find in stores and can start showing signs of cracking over time.

Japanese Style Roof Tiles

Japanese roof tiles are also known as kawara tiles. Recently, kawara tiles are mainly made of clay. They are a hallmark of Japanese architecture, with almost every temple and shrine having a roof made of them. Kawara are unique J-shaped tiles that often end with a traditional Japanese decoration or symbol. While they have been known as a slightly weaker type of tile that doesn’t withstand typhoons and hurricanes, the manufacturers of these tiles have worked to make them extremely disaster-proof as they are installed in over 50% of homes in Japan.

Roman Roof Tiles

Roman roof tiles are mostly made of fired clay but can also be made from marble, bronze, or gilt. They have round caps and flat pans and can be made with different curve styles and interlocking tiles. As their name suggests, Roman roof tiles have been used in Greek and Roman architecture because of their durability and waterproof properties. However, they can easily break and aren’t suitable for high profile roofs. However, when they break or get damaged, the repair is easy.

Barrel Roof Tile

Barrel roof tiles are one of the most expensive roof styles, costing between $10 and $13 per sq. ft. to install. The high cost is because of its unusual design with a higher curve than standard S-style tiles. This shape is ideal for areas with frequent hail and high humidity as it prevents mold buildup and mold formation.

Tile Roof Underlayment Replacement Cost

All roofs require an underlayment before they can be installed. The cost of underlayment is typically fairly low, between $0.50 and $2 per sq. ft. While tiles can last 50 years or more, many underlayments can only last about ten years. This will mean you would have to hire a contractor to remove the tile and underlayment to replace it and then reinstall the tiles over it. If this is not done, the tile could crack or leak over time.

Roof Tile Replacement Cost

If you want to replace your tile roof, you can expect to pay approximately $0.50 - $1.50 per sq. ft. to remove and dispose of old roofing materials first. Then, you would have to pay an additional cost of $7 to $41 per sq. ft. to install the new roofing tiles. This may sound like a high cost for replacement, but considering tile roofs are made to last over 50 years, it’s not a cost homeowners are subjected to more than once or twice in a lifetime. However, as the job is complex and risky, it’s always advisable to hire a professional to do it.

Minimum Pitch for a Tiled Roof

Tile roofs can only be installed on roofs with a pitch between 2/12 and 12/12, with the first number referring to the vertical rise of the roof in inches while the second one refers to the horizontal length of the roof. If the roof is any lower than 2 inches, it may not drain sufficiently, and any higher than 12 inches and the roof will be too steep to accommodate the heavier tile. The most common roof pitch in residential homes is between 4/12 and 9/12.

4-Degree Pitch Roof Tiles

A 4-degree pitch roof is also called a 4/12 roof. This means that for every 12 feet of horizontal length, the roof is pitched 4 inches. Roofs with a pitch between 2/12 and 4/12 are considered low slope roofs. Anything lower than that is considered a flat roof. Because of their shape and weight, tiles aren't recommended for low-slope roofs as they wouldn’t be visually appealing. It is recommended to go for a pitch higher than 4/12 if your roofing is made of tiles or shingles ⁶.

9-Degree Roof Tiles

A 9-degree pitch roof is also called a 9/12 roof. This means that for every 12 feet of horizontal length, the roof is pitched 9 inches. Roofs with a pitch higher than 9/12 are considered steep slope ⁷ roofs and tend to last longer than lower-pitched roofs as water, snow, and ice can go through them easier without getting stuck, as it may happen with flat or low pitch roofs.

12-Degree Roof Tiles

A 12-degree pitch roof is also called a 12/12 roof. This means that for every 12 feet of horizontal length, the roof is pitched 12 inches. As mentioned above, roofs with a pitch higher than 9 are considered a high-slope roof. They are generally considered more visually appealing than lower pitched roofs. However, they cost more because of the added material needed for the installation.

Tile Roof Sealing

Roof sealing is $0.50 to $3 per sq. ft. with labor cost included, which means the average cost to seal a 1,500 sq. ft. roof is $750 to $4,500. However, not all homes require a sealant. Concrete tiles, in particular, will require a sealant, and some types of clay tile will as well. Flat roofs and homes in regions with hot summers also need a sealant to protect the roof and increase the energy efficiency of the home.

The sealant is usually a liquid applied to the roof after installation and allowed to dry. This creates an outside barrier that protects the roof against leaks, moisture, and cracks. Some tile roofs require resealing five to ten years later. Ask the manufacturer of your particular tile to find out if this is necessary.

Tile Roof Maintenance

You can do a few basic things to protect your roof and ensure it will last for longer. You can schedule regular roof inspections to assess the roof and locate any holes, cracks, or underlying issues that need your attention. If there are some, make sure to do all repairs to make sure they don’t become a bigger problem in the future. If needed, replace the damaged area of the roof. Another thing you can do as part of regular roof maintenance is to clean the roof. It will ensure any debris, leaves, or branches that get stuck to it will be removed and allow water to flow freely without getting stuck and causing stains, mold, or mildew.

Tile Roof Repair Cost

If you need to repair your roof, expect to pay an average cost of $900 and $2,300. The exact cost depends mostly on the problem you’re having. The cheapest problem might be a slipped roof tile that will be easily returned to its place, while the most extensive repair might be a leak in the roof, requiring more work and cleaning to bring the roof to its initial form. The material also affects the repair cost. The cheapest material to repair is concrete tiles, while the most expensive tiles to repair are terracotta tiles.

Tile Roof Pros and Cons

Tile roofs come with many advantages and have their disadvantages that turn some homeowners away from installing one. The biggest pro of tile roofs and why they are so popular is their durability and resilience. Thus, they are ideal for places with exposure to salt air or areas with frequent, heavy rainfall or snowfall. Once tile roofs are installed, manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty to back up their quality.

Aside from this, tile roofs are also impervious to insect damage and rot and are very easy to maintain as leaks are rare. Because they are thick, they prevent water, cold air, or hot air from penetrating the interior, making them one of the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly roofing materials available on the market. Homeowners can choose from various colors, styles, patterns, and textures when they install a tile roof, giving them the freedom to choose the look of the exterior of their home.

Because of their many advantages and longevity, tiles are one of the most expensive roofing types that can cost double or triple more than concrete or metal roofs. The high cost is also attributed to the complex installation that requires professional contractors with extensive roofing experience. Another one of the major downsides of tile roofs is that they are heavy. Not all home structures can support them, which would require an additional support structure.

Clay vs Concrete Roof Tiles

The first difference homeowners want to know about clay and concrete tiles is the cost. Both roofing materials are among the more expensive ones and come with a similar cost. Clay tiles cost $9 to $20 per square foot compared to $3 to $20 per square foot for concrete tiles, so they are a slightly more expensive option. Clay tiles last a lot longer than concrete tiles. Their lifespan is around 100 years compared to the 50-year lifespan of concrete roofs.

Another difference to consider is that clay tiles tend to crack in freezing or thawing temperatures, so they aren’t fit to install in all climates. Concrete tiles can handle extreme temperatures easier. Because of their water absorption, concrete tiles are more difficult to maintain than clay tiles that are more resistant to water damage.

Slate vs Concrete Roof Tiles

Slate tiles are made using intense heat and pressure to split the rock into smooth, flat pieces that form the tiles. They give a more natural look to the roof and are more appealing. However, concrete roofs are the most common option homeowners select because of their affordability. Although the cost of slate ² tiles is $1.50 to $30 per sq. ft. compared to concrete tiles that cost homeowners $3 to $20 per sq. ft. to install, most homeowners pick natural slate. Concrete tiles are lighter in weight than slate tiles and cheaper to replace as any tile can easily be replaced if needed. Both options are quite durable, but slate roofs are the clear winner when it comes to durability, with a lifespan that can go as high as 150 years or more.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Old Roofing Removal

The old roofing material must be removed before installing a new roof. This service typically costs $0.50 to $1.50 per sq. ft., depending on the material being removed. While it is possible to layer asphalt shingles at least once, you cannot layer tile shingles over an existing material; it must come off. By removing the old material, you expose the roof deck. This lets the roofer see more clearly how well the deck can hold the new material structurally and if the roof deck will require repair, replacement, or additional material to hold the new tile.

Cost to Paint Tile Roofing

If you want your roof to have a unique look or change its current appearance, you can opt to repaint it for an average cost of $1 to $10 per sq. ft. This is an effective way to change the look of your roof without having to replace it completely, which is a far costlier project. Sometimes, homeowners opt to repaint the roof to cover its worn out look or as an alternative to repairs.

Tile Roof Inspection

The average cost homeowners pay for a roof inspection is $350, although the exact cost can range between $75 and $700. Because the roof acts as the first defense against storms but can deteriorate or develop problems, having a roof inspection ensures that the roof has been installed properly and meets all state and local requirements.

Roof Reinforcement

Roof tiles are heavy roofing material, weighing about 225 pounds per square, so in some cases, additional roof deck support will be needed to hold up the roof. This can cost you between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on your home, which includes a one-time modification that will add strength to the frame and walls. A building inspector should be contacted before construction begins to determine if the current roof can handle the weight, and if necessary, what type of bracing may be required. Because the tile roof can last so long, everything used in its construction also needs to last.

For some newer homes, reinforcing the roof deck is less of a problem, but older homes that may have one that has already been in place for years and that may be sagging or have experienced some degree of wood rot will need to be completely replaced before a tile roof can be installed.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

² Slate: A fine-grained rock, typically bluish-gray in color, that can easily be split into thin layers and is commonly used as a roofing material

⁵ End caps: A separate piece of finished material that covers the unfinished edges of a countertop

⁶ Shingles: A smooth, uniform, flat piece of construction material, available in a wide variety of materials and laid in a series of overlapping rows, used to cover the outside of roofs or walls to protect against weather damage and leaks.