Asphalt shingles are the default for roofs. They’re cheap and do an excellent job of protecting your home. However, in hotter climates, there are better options. 

Other materials like concrete are becoming more favorable for homeowners in desert regions. They offer similar aesthetics to clay but are quite a bit cheaper.

Are these tiles worth the investment? How long will they last? These are questions we hope to answer in this blog.

Benefits of a Concrete Tile Roof

There’s a reason concrete tiles are so prevalent in Arizona. They cover nearly everything a homeowner in a desert climate would want for their roof. Here are some of the benefits of these tiles and some reasons they work so well in Phoenix.

Durability

Concrete tiles are more durable than traditional roofing materials. These tiles are hardy and do a great job of resisting many weather conditions. They’re great at deflecting hail, high winds, and even rot. Although you won’t need it in Phoenix, these tiles can also handle freezing conditions.

This durability gives these tiles a long lifespan compared to other standard roofs. When correctly installed, you won’t need to worry much about broken tiles.

Temperature Regulation

Life has only three certainties: death, taxes, and the fact that Phoenix is hot. A roof that can regulate temperatures by reflecting heat keeps your house livable and decreases your electricity bill.

They also come in various colors that can help keep the roof cooler. The lighter shades can reflect the light and heat more efficiently. Concrete roof tiles are some of the most energy-efficient roofing materials. 

Fire Resistance

Concrete can’t catch fire. Arizona has its fair share of wildfires that sometimes get close to residential buildings. The dry air of the state can create the “perfect” environment for fire to catch and spread fast. 

Concrete tiles are fire resistant, so even if a nearby fire puts ash or hot debris onto your roof, it won’t catch fire.

How Long Does a Concrete Tile Roof Last in Phoenix?

Phoenix, Arizona, offers the best climate for these tiles. Overall, a concrete tile roof’s lifespan is 30-50 years. Most manufacturers offer 30-year warranties, but when properly maintained, they can last up to 50 years.

What Affects the Lifespan of a Concrete Tile Roof?

You can do all you can to ensure your roof will last as long as intended, but there are some things outside your control. 

Weather

Although more durable than most roofing systems, weather can still affect concrete tiles. Phoenix isn’t known for having major weather events yearly, but we shouldn’t forget that the Phoenix metro area experienced the costliest hailstorm in the U.S. in 2010.

Weather damage worsens when the roof is not adequately installed or cared for. It’s imperative to partner with a trusted roofing company when installing a new roof. Maintaining your roof by creating a roof maintenance plan is equally essential. 

Maintenance

Concrete tiles are lower maintenance than other roofs, but upkeep still needs to happen. Consistent inspections are necessary to ensure your roof is in tip-top shape. 

Inspections shouldn’t be limited to only one year. The best time to schedule one is right after storm season. If you suspect anything wrong with your roof, get it inspected sooner than later. If the inspector finds anything wrong, they’ll be able to get you a list of any recommended repairs. 

Proper maintenance and cleaning will significantly increase your concrete roof tile’s lifespan. Contact legacy repair if you’re looking for a roofing contractor for tile roof maintenance.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Concrete Tile Roof

Maintaining your concrete roof is similar to preserving others. Inspections, cleanings, removing debris, and getting needed repairs should be part of the process for any roof.

Although very similar, there are a couple of maintenance tips for extending the lifespan of your concrete tile roof.

Clean it

Concrete roof owners might notice a chalky white residue resting on their roofs. An efflorescence process produces this residue, a normal part of all concrete masonry that occurs when salts deposit into the concrete. It doesn’t cause any issues to the roof, but it can look unsightly.

Efflorescence will go away over time, but if you want to get rid of it quickly, you can always wash your roof.

Seal it

Sealing your concrete tiles is a great way to increase the lifespan of your tiles. Without a sealant, concrete absorbs water, which can increase the weight of your home and cause other issues. To prevent water from getting into your roofing system, seal your tiles.

Although sealers are ideal for homeowners, they don’t last forever. Installing a new sealer every five years is the recommendation. If you keep up with applying sealer and cleaning your roof, it will last much longer than average.

Ready to Try Concrete Tile?

Concrete tiles are an excellent investment for any Phoenix homeowner. The benefit of having a sturdy, heat-resistant, and great-looking roof is ideal for the hot summers of Arizona’s central valley.

Legacy Repair is a residential tile expert. Homeowners local to the Phoenix metro area should contact Legacy Repair for their tile needs.