If you’ve been roofing for more than a minute, you know how important it is to pick the right material for the job. For affordability you might want asphalt. For flat roofs, maybe modified bitumen. But for classic style and reliable durability, shingle roof tiles are tough to beat.
Tile roofing isn’t just old-school. It’s a time-tested system that’s been toppin’ buildings for centuries, from ancient temples to new age homes on the coast. And these days, new materials and manufacturing techniques are making tile shingles more versatile (and profitable) than ever before.
Say you’re launching a roofing business, or thinking about adding tile roofing services to your lineup, or you just need a refresher. Whatever the case, here’s everything you should know about roofing tiles: material types, pros and cons, install tips, and what to watch for on the job.
Let's talk tiles, baby.
What are tile shingles?
Roofing tiles (or tile shingles, or shingle roof tiles) were originally made from clay. Think of ancient pottery: the same material was and is great for roofing. Roofers would shape and fire clay into curved or flat panels, perfect for deflecting rain and heat.
Fast-forward to today. Tile shingles have evolved into a bunch of different material options, each with their own perks. You’ll see ‘em in both residential and commercial roofing, and especially in areas that get a lot of sun or heat, like the Southwest or regions on the coast.
Tile shingles are known for:
- Longevity: When properly installed, tile roofs can last 50–75 years.
- Style: They add major curb appeal and a classy, cultured look.
- Durability: They hold up to sun, wind, and hail better than asphalt.
Plus, with modern technology, tile shingles can now mimic most styles. Slate, shake, even wood grain.
What’s the difference between shingles and tile shingles?
Yes, the terminology’s confusing. No, shingles aren’t the same thing as tile shingles.
When a roofer mentions shingle roofing, they’re usually talking about flat overlapping shingles made of asphalt, fiberglass, maybe wood or slate, or another similar material. Shingles are one of the most common roofing materials, especially in North America, since they’re also one of the most affordable.
Tiles or tile shingles on the other hand are typically made of concrete, clay, or composite. So the biggest difference is just in the materials. More durable, longer lasting, but pricier upfront.
Basically, all tiles can be referred to as shingles, but many shingles are not tiles. Clear as mud?
Popular types of tile shingles
If you’re offering tile roofing services, you gotta know the different types of roofing tiles and when to suggest each. Here are the main types used these days:
Clay tiles
The original and most recognizable type — usually orange, red, or terracotta. Clay tiles are still super common on Spanish and Mediterranean-style homes. They’re fire-resistant, long-lasting, and perfect for hot climates.
They do have a very distinct look, so if a homeowner requests these, make sure they know what they’re asking for.
Concrete tiles
Concrete roof tiles are the workhorses of modern tile roofing. They’re cheaper than clay but almost as durable, and they can be molded to look like other materials. They’re also available in a pretty solid range of colors and finishes.
Concrete tiles are obviously incredibly heavy, though. So, make sure your crew checks for proper structural support before install. Don’t let your installers be careless and hurt themselves, or f**k up someone’s home, because they “thought it would be fine.”
Composite tiles
Composite or synthetic tiles are made from a mix of materials. Think recycled plastics, rubber, and polymers. These are way lighter, easier to install, and less likely to crack.
Perfect for customers who want the look of tile without the price tag. And less risky for your crew to handle, too.
Metal tiles
Don’t confuse these with standing seam panels! Metal tiles are formed and finished to look like traditional roofing tile shingles. They’re lightweight, energy-efficient, and don’t take much maintenance.
That makes them an excellent upsell for homeowners who want a long-lasting roof, or who want the benefits of a metal roof but with the tile look.
Why roofers love (and hate) tile roofs
Every roofing system has its trade-offs. Here are the major pros and cons of tile shingles from a roofer’s perspective:
The advantages of tile roofing
- Longevity: When done right, tile roofs will outlast asphalt. By a lot.
- Energy efficiency: Tile creates a natural air barrier. That keeps attic temperatures more stable, making the home easier to heat and cool. A neat benefit for anyone.
- Fire resistance: Most tile shingles have a Class A fire rating.
- Great look: Tiles have a high-quality appearance which adds major resale value. Curb appeal is a great selling point and can really help push homeowners to make the upgrade.
- Durability: Tiles can handle heavy winds, rain, and hail without much damage.
- Low maintenance: Tile roofs don’t need much upkeep, aside from keeping them clean.
The drawbacks of tile roofing
- Cost: Tile shingles will cost 2–3x more than asphalt. Not doable for everyone.
- Weight: Most tile materials need pretty strong structural support, and not every building can handle that.
- Installation: Tile work takes a lot of skill, experience, and time. It’s an art.
- Fragility: Before they’re up on the roof, tiles can easily crack if dropped or walked on.
Roofers, if you know your market, you’ll know pretty quick whether tile’s the right fit. In the right spots, especially warmer climates, tile roofing can be very profitable. But it doesn’t work everywhere.
Installation tips for roofers new to tile roofing
Tile roofing isn’t a “slap it and seal it” kinda situation. Getting it right takes a lot of care and precision. Practice makes perfect, but here are a few key reminders for your crew:
- Always start with a strong deck and underlayment.
- Check the slope and structure. Make sure the roof can handle the weight.
- Follow the manufacturer’s fastening and overlap specs reaaaaally closely.
- Use foam or adhesive when it makes sense to (especially in hurricane zones).
- Handle tiles very carefully during transport and install. They chip a lot easier than you think.
If you’re new or newish to tile installs, look for training programs offered by tile manufacturers. Some of them offer free or low-cost certifications that’ll boost your credibility and give customers more confidence in your expertise.
Choosing the right tile roofing brands
While every region has its local suppliers, here are a few of the more consistent and best-known brands to choose from in the U.S. or Canada:
- Ludowici: Premium clay tiles made in the United States. Beautiful but pricey.
- MCA (Maruhachi Ceramics of America): High-performance clay tiles. Known for their weather resistance.
- Crown Roof Tiles: Modern clay tile maker. A top U.S. producer.
- Boral Roof Tile (including US Tile): Clay, concrete, and composite options with warranties.
- Eagle Roofing Products: Known for their concrete roof tiles. Good color range and durability.
Try to work with suppliers that offer good warranties and fast deliveries. Delays on tile orders will stall projects fast and can really eat into your margins.
Adding tile into your roofing business
Tile roofing probably won’t be your everyday install. But depending on your local market, it’s an excellent system to learn if you plan to grow your business and stand out from other roofers.
Call ‘em roofing tiles, shingle roof tiles, tile shingles, or Spanish style roofing. Whatever you know them as, the combo of style and strength makes them a highly valued choice for many homeowners. And potentially, a very profitable one for your crew.
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