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Roof Tiles vs Shingles: What To Choose

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 27, 2024

When it comes to selecting the right roofing materials it’s essential to know what kind of material is the best for your home. This guide will help you understand the difference between roof tiles vs shingles.

What Are Roof Tiles?

Roof tiles are overlapping tiles designed mainly to keep out sudden rain or snow. They are made up of locally available materials such as clay, slates and concrete.

What Are Roof Shingles?

Roof Shingles are a popular type of roofing material. They are installed in an overlapping manner to provide complete protection. Shingles are available in different materials such as asphalt, wood and steel.

Shingles vs Tiles: What’s the Difference

Shingles and roof tiles have their own unique features and benefits. When choosing between shingles vs tiles consider factors such as budget, climate, weight and match the look of your house.

Features of Roof Tiles vs Shingles

Appearance

Roof tiles and shingles have unique designs when it comes to appearance. Roof tiles have a classic look that can complement different architectural styles. They come in different colors, textures, and styles.

Durability

Roof tiles can last for 50 years or more as they are made of clay with ceramic coating. They can fight harsh weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rains and even hail.

Shingles generally offer a lifespan of 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance, which includes regular maintenance and immediate action to deal with any damages.

Good to Know

Roof tiles are fire-resistant and eco-friendly as they can be recycled and reused.

Cost Effective

Roof tiles are expensive due to the materials. Shingles are less expensive and are affordable. However these factors depend on the cost per sq. foot.

Climatic Condition

During the summer, these harmful rays can speed up the natural aging of materials and make them weak and delicate leading them to crack. Roof tiles are beneficial in summer as they help control the indoor temperature, reducing warmth and energy usage, thereby improving comfort. In the monsoon, the heavy weight of roof tiles allows them to resist stormy winds, unlike shingles which can tear. During winter roof tiles are safe to use as they can help protect during freezing conditions, preventing ice dams and structural weakening from snow accumulation. On the other hand, shingles are sensitive and can easily break under the weight of snow or ice build-up.

Installation Process

Roof shingles are easy to install as they are lightweight. They require less manpower for installation. They can be installed quickly.

Roof tiles are heavier and require a skilled team or professional to install them. While installing these tiles it gets more difficult due to the weight and is time consuming. Once the roof tiles are installed they can last for many decades with little to no maintenance required.

Good to Know

To know more about the process on how you can install the roof shingles. Refer to the guide on how to install shingles.

Maintenance

Roof tiles maintenance should be carried out twice a year. It should include Conduct a thorough inspection of the roof and roof tiles, clearing all eaves and gutters of debris. Remove any moss, lichen, or algae growth, and trim back any overhanging trees or foliage.

Shingles are exposed to dust and algae which settle on them due to their rough surface and the granules. These shingles will require regular cleaning.

Good to Know

Roof tiles with ceramic coating will always remain clean and maintain their original appearance for years.