• By Liam Ridings
• In Blog, Metal Roofing, Renovation
• Tags roof repairs

How Long Do Concrete Roof Tiles Last?

Roof tiles are traditionally designed to protect the roof of a structure, shield from the elements, and support the structural integrity of a house or property. Traditionally made from locally available materials like terracotta and slate, modern roof tile materials like concrete and clay provide an additional layer of waterproofing and strength.

Concrete roofing is one of the most popular choices in Australia. Durable, long-lasting, and reliable, concrete roof tiles can also add significant value to a property. Similarly to other concrete constructions, concrete roof tiles tend to get stronger with age as they will harden when being baked in the sun.

So how long do concrete roof tiles last? What’s the average life span of a concrete tile roof? This article will break down the average roof life expectancy, clay tile roof lifespan, and the process of cement roof tile replacement.

How Long Do Concrete Roof  Tiles Last?

Concrete tiles require very little maintenance, are reliable, and will provide exceptional roofing for an extended period of time. Concrete as a material is very embracing of all the elements and will not rust or corrode near salt water like metal roofs. For those properties in high-risk bush fire areas, concrete roof tiles may also be a great fire-safe roofing option.

Concrete roof tiles are made from sand, cement and water, and are moulded under heat and high amounts of pressure. The exterior surface of a concrete roof tile may be finished with a paint or glaze. Concrete roof tiles last so long because they have additional water locks; interlocking ribs on the edges of the tiles that prevent water infiltration. Concrete roof tiles come in flat, low, and high profiles.

In regards to how long do concrete roof tiles last – the answer is that they typically last about 50 years. However, if concrete roof tiles are well looked after, they can sometimes last up to 100 years in the right conditions.

In saying that, roof tiles need to be handled with care and regularly inspected. Depending on where the property is located and how it is cared for, tile roofing can become brittle and break if mishandled.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Tile Roof?

The life expectancy of a tile roof will all depend on the materials used for the tile roof. In terms of concrete tile roofs, they will last an average of 50 years. Clay tiles can last up to 100 years, terracotta tiles around 50 years, and slate roof tiles can last up to 100 years in the right conditions.

The answer to the question of “What is the life expectancy of a tile roof?” is at least 50 years. By nature, tile roofs are very durable and will last a long time if installed correctly and are taken care of. The most common roof tiles are concrete, clay, terracotta, and slate. It’s also possible to install solar panelled tiles that can be designed to look like ordinary roof tiles. All of these roofing materials are incredibly long-lasting if they are regularly inspected, repaired when damaged, washed, and maintained.

Clay Tile Roof Lifespan

Clay tile roofs are incredibly durable, long-lasting, and strong. Clay tiles wear very well all year long, and when installed and maintained correctly, can last as long as 100 years or more. While clay tiles can be more expensive than concrete roof tiles, their longevity, energy-efficiency and excellent curb appeal make them a great investment for a property.

Clay tiles are produced by baking moulded clay. The density of the earth is determined by how long and at what temperature it is baked at. Clay tile roofs generally come in white, yellow, orange or brown, the most common being “terracotta”. A naturally occurring material, clay roof tiles will maintain their original colour and appeal for years, despite being subjected to harsh weather conditions.

Cement Roof Tile Replacement

Cement roof tiles don’t often require replacement, as concrete roof tiles are very durable and long-lasting. Cement is an ingredient in concrete, and concrete roof tiles will usually last well beyond 50 years if they are well-maintained.

Cement roof tile replacement will only be required if the tile becomes damaged. Generally, cement roof tiles do not wear – they are very durable and will withstand extreme weather conditions. The only time concrete roof tiles may become damaged is if there is a particularly bad storm, the roof is not well maintained, or if they have been mishandled or poorly installed. If cement roof tiles become cracked, broken, or come off altogether, they need to be replaced immediately to avoid leaving a hole in the roof.

Cement roof tile replacement can be especially challenging, as the materials are sturdy but require careful handling. While there may be plenty of DIY information on cement roof tile replacement online, it really is best to rely on a professional roofing contractor for tile replacements and repairs. A professional roofing contractor will also know to check the surrounding concrete tiles to ensure the roof is in perfect working order.

Average Roof Life Expectancy

The average roof life expectancy of your roof really depends on the material and the design of the structure. Different roofing materials last longer than others and will perform varyingly to harsh weather conditions. When it comes to getting the most value out your roof, the average roof life expectancy should be one of your primary considerations. Here is the average roof life expectancy for the most common roofing materials in Australia:

• Concrete roof tiles: 50 years

• Clay roofing tiles: 50-100 years

• Slate roof tiles: up to 100 years

• Asphalt roofing: 15-20 years

• Metal roofing: 40+ years

• Colorbond roofing: 100 years if adequately painted, treated and maintained

• Wood shingle roofing: 20+ years

It should come as no surprise to learn that roofing materials can be prolonged and have their life expectancy enormously extended with regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance. It does not matter what type of roofing materials you have; maintenance is required if you’d like your roof to continue protecting your property.

At Vertec Roofing, we specialise in roof repairs, replacements and reroofing projects in Sydney. The leading experts in exceptional roofing care, we are committed to helping others keep their properties safe from the harsh extremities of Sydney’s weather. If you’d like to learn more about what we can do for your next roofing project, get in touch with one of our team members today.