Tile vs Shingle vs Metal Roof: Which is the Best Roofing Option?

In most areas, homeowners have various options for roofing materials during installation or replacement. As you compare tile vs shingle vs metal roof types, note that each has its role and place. Besides picking colors, the vast materials in the market can make choosing the best difficult. We will be comparing asphalt shingles, metal shingles, and tile roofs to determine which product makes more sense and provides higher value to customers.

Roofing Options for Consumers

Most homeowners are familiar with shingle roofs. However, more residents are turning to tile and metal roofs as a way of topping off structural designs. Below is a comparison of tile vs shingle vs metal roof types and an outline of its pros and cons to help you understand these roofing options.

Metal Roofing

Metal is a premium roofing product fashioned from different materials. In Southwest Florida, residential metal roofing is commonly fabricated from galvalume or aluminum, depending on your location. Greater salt air exposure necessitates aluminum that is resistant to corrosion in areas closer to the ocean. Besides the popular seam designs, metal roofing is available in styles resembling shingles, tile roofing, slate, or shakes. Metal is lightweight and an excellent option for reroofing businesses and homes not designed to withstand the weight of tile roofing. The question is – how long can a metal roof last? When properly installed, it can last approximately 50 years.

Metal Roofing Pros

last up to 50 years, depending on the material
Mostly easy metal roof installations
Non-combustible
Reflect radiant heat, keeping the house cool
Impervious to snow and rain, since the surfaces are slippery and hard
Environmentally-friendly
Stylish
Different metal roof colors

Metal Roofing Cons

Noisy
Easily dented
High initial costs
Large panels are difficult to replace
Installations are not foolproof and need an experienced contractor

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

This is the most common residential roofing in the US. It is made from fiberglass between ceramic granules and asphalt. Because it’s relatively easy to install, it’s recommended when you need style on a budget. Though vulnerable to strong winds, roof shingles may last over 30 years.

There are two types of roof shingles: laminated and three-tab asphalt. The laminated, also called “dimensional” or “architectural” shingle roof Florida types, are layered with depth and thickness, making them appear like wood shakes. However, the three-tab asphalt shingles have a single layer although similarly priced.

Shingle Roofing Benefits

Inexpensive
Less time and labor to install
Easy to replace shingles
Fit any style
In various shingle roofing colors

Shingle Roofing Cons

Vulnerable to strong winds
Can crack
Asphalt shingles need warmer temperatures
Lacks a unique look
Not durable compared to other roof types

Clay Tile Roofing

Roof tiles are popular in coastal areas since they don’t depreciate because of salt spray. They also hold up to strong winds at 100+ mph. Their installations benefit from proper flashing techniques and superior underlayment that ensure rainwater is away from the roof deck sheathing. Clay tiles are common roof tiles with a 30-year warranty. With occasional maintenance, they last between 50-100 years.

Where architecturally appropriate, slate roof tiles offer a greater lifespan. In many cases, they last up to 100 years, typically with 50-year warranties. However, clay tiles allow more airflow, and the underlayment or barrier breeze better. In addition, the slate weight load is significantly higher than other roofing materials.

Tile Roofing Pros

Weather-resistant
Reduced energy costs
Minimal maintenance
Lasts more than 50 years
Pest-resistant
Have different colors and styles

Tile Roofing Cons

A heavy material
Can be expensive
Require expert installations
Break or crack from impact
Need roof tile cleaners as they get dirty

The Tile vs Shingle vs Metal Roof Debate Wrap Up

It is challenging to compare tile vs shingle vs metal roof types since they significantly differ and have benefits depending on your location and roofing product. While cost is a differentiating factor, you can find manufacturers or custom products whose pricing is against general trends. In this way, shingle products may cost more than metal products, or metal roofing could have a higher value than tile products.

In most cases, shingle structures present economic roofing solutions. However, if you can stand high upfront costs and plan to hold onto your house for decades, metal and tile options are the best.

Epic Roofing & Exteriors Company offers roof replacement, repair, and new construction to Southwest Florida residents. With over 30 years of experience, the company prides itself on efficiency, knowledge, and quality work with all roof types. Contact us today for all your roofing projects.