When considering home roofing styles, there are countless options to choose from. A clay roof might not be at the top of everyone’s list, but a clay tile roof can be the perfect finishing touch to many architectural styles. Click here to learn more about different home roofing styles.
The Origins of Clay Roofing – While many homeowners may associate clay roofs with Spanish style homes, there are actually two known origins of clay roof tiles, Ancient China and the Middle East. From there, it is possible to trace the use of clay roofing tiles to Egypt, Rome and Greece as well as to the rest of Asia and Europe.
Roof Tiles Today – Clay tile roofing is still widespread throughout the globe. It has gained and lost popularity over the years as the introduction of other roofing materials have come to market. Ceramic roof tiles can withstand constant exposure to most weathers and climates, although their use is most popular in many southern areas of the United States, as well as on the West Coast.
What is probably the most known clay roofing material is the Spanish clay tile. Paired with stucco walls, these Terra Cotta colored tiles in a classic tapered, mission shape make a bright highlighted area of the home.
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Japanese style clay tiles, with their unique, interlocking waves, can compliment many modern style homes. The most popular and traditional color for these tiles is known as Japanese black, and is a through body color, meaning that there is no glaze applied to the tiles which may crack or chip over the years. Other colors are available in glazes, which may not last as long.
Another interlocking clay tile is the flat clay roof tile. These tiles piece together seamlessly, and can produce an effect similar to a slate roof, but with a more modern and updated appearance. While its natural color is red, it is available in many other glazed finishes, and is used predominately in commercial buildings, and modern style, flat roofed homes.
The latest clay tile roof to come to the market is the Turret tile. This fan shaped tile makes curves, turrets and other applications easier to install and obtain than ever before. Clay Roof TilesThere are several benefits to homeowners for using clay roofing tiles, in addition to their unique and classic styles. Clay tiles are among the most durable roofing materials available, second only to slate tiles in durability, and if properly installed, can last up to 100 years.
Clay tiles are also typically less expensive than other roofing options, which combined with their longevity, makes clay roofing a smart option for homeowners investing in the long term value of their home.
For homeowners looking to further insulate their homes and lower heating and cooling costs, clay roofs are an excellent option. During their installation, the tiles create what is known as dead air space below them. This space serves to further insulate a home, helping to maintain a more even interior temperature and lower heating and cooling bills.
Clay roof tiles are rather heavy, which means that any homeowner considering their use should have their home evaluated for structural integrity before purchasing. Clay roof tiles also need to be installed during a season when the air is warm and dry, meaning that the roof needs to be planned for well in advance.
When all options are considered, clay roofing, with its durability, low cost and many styles, makes the perfect compliment to nearly any home, and homeowner’s budget.