If you’re looking to buy a vacation home in Southwest Florida, you’ve likely noticed that tile roofing systems are quite popular in this part of the country. You may also have a lot of questions about tile roofs, especially if your current home is topped with asphalt shingles. For this blog post, we wanted to address some of the FAQs for tile roofing systems.
Are all tile roofs the same?
No. Tile roofing materials come in hundreds of styles and colors. Although most tiles are made from clay or slate, there are various styles to choose from. Examples include Newcastle tile, old mission style, cobbled, Manchester tile, cottage tile, old world vintage and swirl brushed tile. Additionally, tiles can be made of concrete, clay, and slate, and they come in several shapes, including left 90-degree angle, right 90-degree angle, curved edge, round hip, angular ridge and bonnet hip.
Why are tile roofs popular in Southwest Florida?
One of the greatest benefits of this type of roofing system is that it holds up great in foul weather. Not only can it withstand strong winds (which are common in the Southeast, especially during hurricane season), they’re hail and fire resistant. Suffice to say, tile roofs are extremely durable, and that’s why they’re as prevalent as they are in this part of the country.
How often will I need to reroof my home?
Unlike asphalt shingle roofs (which often need to be replaced every 25-30 years) tile roofs last much longer. If installed correctly, tile roofing systems can last between 50-70 years (depending on the expertise of the installer and the type of tiles that were used). For more information on the workmanship and materials warranty for the home, ask the seller about the last time the home was reroofed. Be sure to get the contact information for the company that performed the installation.
Can I walk on the roof?
Yes and no. Although tiles are durable and they have quite a bit of compression strength, walking on tile roofing is not recommended. Each year, thousands of people are injured when they fall from their roof. If you’re not used to heights and you’re not comfortable climbing on and off a ladder, it’s best for you to stay off your roof.
Have questions? Call Kleinberger Corporation today
If you’re thinking about buying a home that has a tile roof and you have additional questions, we can help. Call Kleinberger Corporation today to speak with an expert.
