Spanish tiles lend a classic look to pretty much any roof. However, they also serve a more practical purpose: they can help keep your roof cool in the hot summer months.
If you are thinking of a Spanish tile roof for your home or place of business, you may have some questions regarding price and lifespan.
Many people also don’t realize how many options they have for a Spanish tile roof. The reality is that there are many things you have to consider if you are thinking of installing a Spanish tile roof.
The excellent news is Roofer’s Guild compiled a complete guide on this kind of roofing system for all those considering it.
What is Spanish Tile Roofing?
Spanish tile roofing is a highly sustainable roof material made of terracotta or clay. Because of its regenerating material, the roofing material typically lasts longer than alternative roofing types.
The tiles are made into a rounded “S” shape to interlock with one another. As a result, Spanish tiles require careful layouts to keep water away from the decking.
Unique Qualities of a Spanish Tile Roof
Keep in mind that Spanish roof tiles are not fastened to the roof’s deck like asphalt or wood tiles are. Instead, when laid in a meticulous interlocking pattern, the weight of the tiles is enough to keep them in place and provide protection for the roof.
Spanish tiles don’t have covers and pans, unlike other clay roofing tiles. Also, their uniform design disallows staggering. So, instead, roof installers must lay Spanish tiles carefully and deliberately in an interlocking pattern. Spanish tile roofs also require an eave enclosure.
Spanish tile roofs possess numerous unique qualities including a uniform design that prevents staggering.
Spanish Tile Roofing Benefits
Like most roofing materials, Spanish tiles have convenient and aesthetic advantages such as:
Energy Efficiency
Spanish tiles are very energy efficient as the domed structure allows warm/cold air to escape. In addition, the setup keeps your home or building cooler in the summer months and warmer in the winter months, so you won’t have to run your heater/AC so often.
Also, Spanish tile is very effective for reflecting UV rays, so it naturally keeps your roof deck cool.
Fire Resistance
Spanish clay tiles are not flammable. Therefore, they will not help spread the flames during a fire and may protect your home and keep flames from spreading to other properties.
Classic Appearance
Many people choose Spanish tiles for their roofs simply because it looks good. However, a Spanish tile roof can instantly increase your home’s curb appeal and even add significant value to it.
Wind Resistance
An adequately installed Spanish tile roof can withstand wind speeds of up to 125 mph. As a result, Spanish tiles are a practical choice even in regions prone to extreme weather conditions.
Durability
While the initial investment for your Spanish tile roof may be substantial, maintenance should be minimal because of the material’s durability. Properly installed roofs won’t require much maintenance.
Lifespan
So, how long does a Spanish tile roof last? Try 100 years on average! Spanish tile roofs are highly durable, so they last pretty much forever.
Warranty Options
Because Spanish tile roofs are so durable and last long, manufacturers offer extended warranties for their tile roofing products.
Sustainability
As we mentioned earlier, terracotta is a very sustainable material that regenerates itself on the Earth abundantly. Therefore, Spanish tiles are eco-friendly.
Disadvantages of Spanish Tile Roofing
Of course, every roofing material has its drawbacks. The disadvantages of Spanish tiles include:
Upfront Cost
Installing a Spanish tile roof can cost as much as $25 per square foot. In addition, the installation requires a lot of care and experience, so labor can also significantly drive up the price.
Cracking Vulnerability
While they help keep buildings warm thanks to their natural insulating capability, Spanish tiles are not ideal for frigid climates because of their cracking vulnerability. They are also prone to impact damage and make getting up on your roof dangerous.
Reinforcement Requirements
Because Spanish tiles are so heavy, you will, at the very least, need to have the roof underlayment inspected before installation. The worst-case scenario is that you need extra reinforcement work done on your roof to support the weight of the tiles.
Spanish Roof Tile Styles
When most people think of Spanish tile roofs, they conjure up an image of a curved, mostly red-colored roofing material. While that striking image is the classic Spanish tile look, there are others to consider in 2024.
Patterned Spanish Tiles
For instance, if you want more character and rustic styling, you should consider patterned Spanish tiles. Patterned Spanish tiles don’t have a uniform color, and they stick out from the roof a bit more, giving it a more textured look.
Dark Spanish Tiles
If you aren’t a fan of the lighter tile colors, Spanish tiles also come in a darker, almost brown tone. Remember that the darker the tile, the more heat it will absorb.
Traditional Terracotta Tiles
Traditional terracotta tiles will give you a brighter, more classic Spanish tile look. In addition, they offer a uniform design and look beautiful when installed correctly. Keep in mind that these days, Spanish tiles come in a wide variety of colors, like green and blue.
Composite Spanish Tiles
And if you are on a budget but still want the look of a Spanish tile roof, you can always look into composite Spanish tiles. They aren’t made of the same material and don’t have the same lifespan as genuine Spanish tiles. Still, they give a similar look and are much more affordable.
Best Practices for Spanish Tile Roof Installation
Last but not least, you should always work with an experienced roofing contractor if you want to install a Spanish tile roof. The installation process is vital for this type of roofing material, and it is not a DIY project. Nor should it be left in the hands of an inexperienced roofing contractor.
Before hiring a contractor to install this kind of roof on your property, ask for references and make sure that they have installed this kind of roof before. Also, do your best to choose a contractor that can give you a good labor warranty.
