In Fort Myers, FL, sunny weather, ocean breezes, and strong storms are all part of life. That’s why your roof matters so much. Many homeowners love the look and strength of tile roofing, but picking the right type can be tricky. When comparing tile roofing systems, clay and concrete are the two main options to choose from.
Both look great and protect your home, but they each have their own pros and cons. If you’re thinking about a new tile roof, it helps to know the difference between these types of tile roofing systems—especially here in Fort Myers, FL.
What Are Clay Roof Tiles?
Clay roof tiles are made from natural clay that’s shaped and baked in a very hot oven. This gives them their hard finish and beautiful colors—like warm red, orange, brown, and tan. The most popular color is terra cotta. Because the color is baked in, it doesn’t peel or fade, even under the strong Florida sun.
Clay tiles have a classic style that works well on Spanish, Mediterranean, and coastal homes. In Fort Myers, you’ll see these roofs on many beautiful houses.
What Are Concrete Roof Tiles?
Concrete tiles are made with cement, sand, and water. They’re shaped and pressed under heat, then painted or textured to look like other materials. Concrete tiles can even be made to look like clay, wood shake, or slate.
They come in three styles: flat (no curve), low-profile (a little curve), and high-profile (a big curve). When comparing tile roofing systems, concrete gives you more design options. It’s great for homeowners who want a custom look without a big price tag.
Water Absorption and Moisture Resistance
Florida’s wet weather makes water resistance very important. Clay tiles absorb less water—only about 6%—which helps prevent mold, mildew, and staining. Concrete tiles soak up more—around 13%—so they’re more likely to get stained or hold moisture.
This extra water can also make concrete tiles heavier after a storm. In Fort Myers, FL, where it rains often, clay tiles usually hold up better to the humidity.
Weight and Structural Support
Weight matters when choosing a roof. Concrete tiles are about 40% heavier than clay. A heavy roof might need extra support from your home’s structure. If your house wasn’t built for that kind of weight, your roofer may need to reinforce the roof before installing concrete tiles.
Clay tiles are lighter, which makes them easier to install on most homes. If you want to avoid extra work or costs, clay may be the better option.
Durability and Lifespan
When it comes to how long your roof lasts, both types are strong—but clay lasts longer. Clay tiles can hold up for 75 to 100 years. That’s one of the longest lifespans of any roofing material. It’s perfect for hot, humid places like Fort Myers.
Concrete tiles usually last 30 to 50 years, which is still very good. They’re strong and can handle most types of weather, but they may need a bit more care over time than clay.
Maintenance and Repairs
Clay roofs are low-maintenance. Their surface doesn’t soak in much water, so you don’t have to worry about mildew or fading. If one breaks, it can be replaced without too much trouble.
Concrete roofs may need a bit more attention. Since they hold more moisture, they can stain or fade over time. They’re also heavier, so repairs can be a little more difficult. Still, with regular checkups, both tile types can last for decades.
Appearance and Color Longevity
The way your roof looks plays a big role in how your home looks overall. Clay tiles keep their natural color for many years. Since the color is baked into the tile, it won’t fade, even after lots of sun and rain.
Concrete tiles offer more color and design choices. You can paint them in just about any shade you like. But over time, painted concrete tiles may start to fade—especially in sunny places like Fort Myers, FL. If color that lasts is important to you, clay may be the better choice.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to price, concrete tiles usually cost less than clay. They’re cheaper to make and easier to install, which means you’ll pay less upfront.
Clay tiles are more expensive at first, but they last longer and need less care. In the long run, they may save you money—and they could even raise your home’s value more. Many Fort Myers homeowners find that the extra cost is worth it.
So, Which Tile Roof Is Right for You?
If you’re comparing tile roofing systems for your home in Fort Myers, FL, here’s the bottom line:
- Clay tiles are a great choice if you want a classic look, longer lifespan, and less upkeep.
- Concrete tiles are ideal if you’re on a tighter budget but still want a stylish, strong roof.
Both types of tile roofing systems will boost your home’s curb appeal and help it stand up to Florida weather. It just depends on your budget, style, and how long you want your roof to last.
Schedule Your Free Inspection Today
Not sure which tile roofing option is right for your home? That’s where we come in. At Leggett Roofing, we install high-quality clay and concrete tile roofs across Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas. We’ll walk you through your choices, explain what works best for your home, and give you the honest answers you need.
Schedule your free inspection today and find out how we can help you get the perfect tile roof—built to last and made to fit your style.
