30 Mar Asphalt Shingles vs Concrete Tiles

Asphalt Shingles vs Concrete Tiles

So you’re looking to [install a new roof] for your home or business? You’ve probably noticed that there are quite a few different roofing materials to choose from, like asphalt shingles, wood shake, concrete tiles, and more.

Two of our most popular roofing materials are asphalt shingle and concrete tile, so we get a lot of customers asking us this question:

Asphalt shingles vs concrete tiles – which one is better for my roof?

Asphalt Shingles

Pros

• Cheap to install
• Easy to install
• Come in a variety of color options
• Different varieties to choose from (3-tab, laminated, premium)

Cons

• Less energy-efficient
• Cannot be installed in extremely low temperatures
• Susceptible to wind damages
• Susceptible to damage at high temperatures
• Require more regular maintenance
• Crack under extreme temperature fluctuations
• Not eco-friendly (petroleum-based, not recyclable)

Concrete Tile

Pros

• Long-lasting material (50+ years)
• More energy-efficient
• Reduces heat gain to your home
• Resistant to rot, pests, and extreme temperatures
• Fire-resistant
• Available in different colors, styles, and weights
• Made of environmentally friendly materials
• Recyclable
• Help lower AC and heating costs

Cons

• More expensive
• Heavy
• Requires special skill to install
• Underlayment must be replaced every 10-20 years

Asphalt Shingles vs Concrete Tiles: Which Wins?

We’ve listed the pros and cons of asphalt shingles vs concrete tiles, but who is the ultimate winner?

Truthfully, it depends.

Instead of giving a blanketed one-size-fits-all answer, the right roofing option for you truly depends on your budget, your individual needs, as well as many other factors including your climate. Below you’ll find some questions we have our clients consider before choosing between concrete tiles vs asphalt shingles.

Questions to ask yourself when deciding between asphalt shingle vs concrete tile roofing:

1. 1. What is my budget?

If your budget is lower, you might only be able to afford asphalt shingles. However, if you are able to spend a little bit more on a concrete roof, you’ll get a rooftop that will last a lifetime – or more.

1. 1. How often do I want to replace my roof?

Asphalt shingles wear down, crack, and flake off under extreme temperature changes. Concrete roofs can last virtually forever, needing very little maintenance unless individual tiles crack from being stood on or from falling branches.

1. 1. What is my climate?

If you live in a climate that has extremely hot or extremely cold temperatures, then concrete tile roofing will help insulate your home much better than asphalt shingles.

1. 1. Can my roof hold the weight of a heavy tile roof?

One thing to consider is the structural integrity of your rooftop. If you want to invest in a concrete tile roof, then you’ll likely need to spend a little extra money to reinforce your roof system.

1. Do I want to be more energy-efficient?

Energy-efficient roofing options are a key thing to consider – and concrete tile is far more energy efficient than asphalt shingles.
Whichever roofing material you decide on, Element Roofing is your best choice in residential roof installation, commercial roof installation, and more.