The short answer
Tile outlasts nearly everything, but the underlayment beneath it fails at 20 to 30 years. Most older tile roofs need the tile lifted, the underlayment replaced and the tile relaid rather than a full replacement.
Specifications
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical cost | $28,000 to $70,000 |
| Tile service life | 50 years plus |
| Underlayment life | 20 to 30 years |
| Weight | Heavy, may need review |
| Hail | Brittle under impact |
| Walkability | Cracks under foot traffic |
Where it performs
- Exceptional UV and heat performance
- Very long service life for the tile itself
- Distinctive architectural appearance
- Non combustible
- Existing tile can usually be salvaged and relaid
The trade-offs
- Heavy enough to require structural capacity
- Brittle in hail and under foot traffic
- Matching discontinued profiles can be difficult
- Specialist repairs cost more than shingle
What we install
If someone quotes a full tile replacement on a 25 year old roof, ask specifically about lift and relay with new underlayment before agreeing.
Other materials
Compare directly: roofing comparisons · cost guide · glossary
