What is the life expectancy of a metal roof versus a tile roof?

Asphalt shingle roofs have been the most popular type of roofing in the United States. However, they are not the most durable. This distinction goes to tile and metal roofs. Slate is also included in this category but at a higher cost. It’s a rare choice in most parts of the country. Now, let’s get back to metal or tile roofs. Both can be considered an upgrade to asphalt roofs. They are more expensive but can last a lifetime depending on your age. What is the life expectancy of a metal roof over a tile roof?

Metal roofs last a lifetime

There are many options for material, including steel, which is the most popular, as well as aluminum, Galvalume, and copper. There are three types of tiles: exposed-fastener sheet, concealed-fastener sheet, and tile. There are some differences between these options, and they can be important. The most cost-effective and longest-lasting sheets are those that are top-fastened. They are still a good choice and will last longer than asphalt shingles, but they come at a slight price increase. You can now have a lifetime roof by choosing concealed fasteners. Metal tiles can give you a lifetime roof that looks more like tiles.

Exposed-Fastener Steel Sheets

This is sometimes called “barn roofing”. It’s used on horse barns, pole barns, and other warehouse-type structures that don’t require weather-tight living quarters. It can be kept weather tight, however. It is more expensive than metal tiles or concealed-fastener sheets, but it requires less maintenance. This type of roof requires regular inspection because the screws are driven through the sheet’s exposed surface. They also include a rubber washer that seals out water. The screws will need to be tightened occasionally.

The occasional frost can cause some material contraction in northern Florida. This is not the norm in other parts of Florida. This contraction can affect the screw/washer connection to the roof. High winds and heavy rains are more of a concern in the Tampa region. Although this type of roof is capable of handling our weather, it’s important to be vigilant about your roof during heavy storms. This applies to all types of roofs.

A yearly roof inspection is a good idea, even though it is expensive insurance. You can also take 15 minutes every other week to inspect your roof and your home.

The lifespan of exposed-Fastener Sheets

Your new steel roof made from exposed fasteners, installed by skilled professionals, will last for more than 30 years. The hurricane is the main risk. Although a hurricane can cause damage to your roof, it is likely that a storm that damages your steel roof will also destroy shingle roofing. This roof can be repaired easily. This type of roof is more resilient than asphalt shingle roofing. Storm damage will not require complete replacement.

Sheets with concealed-fastener

This type of roofing will give you a more attractive and clean roof than other types. The roofing material will be continuous from the eave up to the ridge with only a few pipe penetrations.

What material should you choose? They are more alike than they are different, we’ll admit. Steel is strong and easily available. However, it can rust over time. Aluminum is less strong than steel so it can rust more easily. Aluminum is also more expensive than steel, at 80-100%. Galvalume consists of a steel substrate coated with aluminum and zinc. It is stronger than aluminum and has a lower cost. Copper is expensive but doesn’t rust and it is beautiful. It is available in one color, and will eventually develop the verdigris patina. Whether you like it or not. They can be used for 100 years. That’s why they have been so popular. There are many profile options for clay tiles, including flat, fish-scale, and an “S-shaped”. These shapes can have a unique appearance. Clay tiles can also be made in a variety of colors such as gray or terra cotta. Clay tiles have a natural color and don’t show efflorescence like concrete tiles.

Florida clay-tile roof

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are an emerging application of concrete. Concrete tiles are a durable and simple product that people have used for hundreds of years. Concrete tiles can be used interchangeably with clay tiles. Concrete tiles are much more affordable than clay tiles, but they cost less. They are available in a range of colors and profiles to match a variety of esthetics. They can also exhibit efflorescence as a chalky coating. This can occur in any concrete product. It does not damage the roof and can be washed off over time.

The lifespan of tile roofs

Concrete tile roofs might come with a 50-year manufacturer’s warranty. This is as good or better than metal roofs. Clay tile roofs can last up to 100 years. This roof lasts for a lifetime.

How to get a lifetime roof

You don’t need to buy the best components for your home. It is also important to have top-quality installations. However, it is possible to expect that you will get this if you only hire reliable contractors. Weather conditions can also cause damage to a 100-year-old roof. A Class V hurricane can destroy everything. We make the best decision possible, and then we accept what happens.

It is important to upgrade the underlayment. Grace Vycor, a self-sticking roll-on product that can be applied to the roofing felt, is much less expensive than standard roofing felt. It provides substantial protection against damage to the top layer of your roof material. It is squishy, self-sticking and seals around screws and nails. This layer of protection is another great option in the event of storm damage.

This article was written by a roofing and solar installation specialist at HD Roofing & Construction. At HD Roofing & Construction, our roofing team is the heart of the company, and we are proud to have a highly-trained, professional team. If you need a roof over your head, we’ve got you covered. We offer roof installation in Longwood FL and home improvement services, including roof replacement and repairs, emergency tarps, home restoration, and solar!

Carlos Wagner