Terra-cotta roof tiles provide energy savings and fire protection.
While terra-cotta roofing has a few disadvantages, such as high initial cost for materials and installation, and making it difficult to access rooftop features such as air conditioning units or chimneys, the advantages of terra-cotta roofing far outweigh the downsides for the average homeowner. Terra-cotta tiles are fire-resistant, long-lasting, low-maintenance tiles that reduce a home's energy consumption.
Fire Protection
Terra-cotta roof tiles are among few roofing materials that are fire-resistant. This is especially important if your home has a fireplace or is in an area with a lot of trees, is near power lines or is in close proximity to neighbors. Any flying ashes, coals and sparks, whether from a chimney or a neighboring residence or building that has caught fire, or a downed electrical wire, will not ignite a terra-cotta roof. Such tile roofs are especially recommended in areas prone to forest fire, such as the mountain regions of the southwest United States.
Energy Savings
Due to their density and shape, terra-cotta roof tiles provide an greater layer of insulation on top of your home than other types of roofing. They reflect the hot summer sun, rather than absorbing the heat as most types of shingles do, and help keep your home cooler in summer. In the winter, they provide an extra barrier to help trap rising heat, keeping your home warmer. The result is lower cooling and heating costs, which can be significant depending on the climate of your area. The Florida Solar Energy Center found that tile roofs can reduce heat flux by as much as 48 percent, compared with certain asphalt shingles.
Long-Lasting
On average, terra-cotta roofing lasts two to three times as long as traditional asphalt or wood shingle roofing. Such a tile roof could last up to 100 years but more commonly 50 to 60 years. Although the initial cost of a terra-cotta roof is more than that of an asphalt shingle roof, it may cost less in the long run since it will not need to be replaced for nearly a lifetime or more.
Low Maintenance
Unlike other roofing materials, terra-cotta is not damaged by insects or birds, is better at withstanding serious storms and requires far fewer repairs and maintenance. Terra-cotta tile performs well in high winds, hail, snow, dust storms and frost. You should regularly inspect a terra-cotta roof for damage, but the only maintenance required is replacement of broken tiles or cleaning by spraying with water if the home is located in an area prone to mold and mildew. Typically, tiles break only when struck with force, usually by a tree limb.
Environmentally Friendly
Terra-cotta roofing is one of the most environmentally friendly roofing materials available. They are made from clay, an abundant natural resource, using a process that has little ill effect on the environment, unlike production of asphalt shingles. In addition, because they last so long, they create far less waste due to replacement than other roofing materials. In fact, terra-cotta tiles are often recycled, avoiding the landfill altogether.
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