Concrete Tile Roof Vs Asphalt Shingles? Prices, Installation Cost, Best Brands, Pros and Cons

When deciding on a new roof, homeowners often narrow their choices to concrete tile roofs or asphalt shingles, two popular yet distinctly different options. Concrete tiles typically cost $10-$20 per square foot installed but offer 50+ years of durability, while asphalt shingles cost $3-$8 per square foot with 15-30 years of life expectancy. This significant difference in price and longevity represents just the beginning of the comparison. This guide explores the complete picture—from installation requirements and top manufacturers to the advantages and limitations of each roofing material—helping you make an informed decision for your home’s specific needs.

Concrete tile roofs consist of sand, cement, water, and pigments molded into various shapes and styles. These durable roofing materials have existed for centuries, with modern concrete tiles dating back to the early 1900s. Unlike clay tiles, concrete versions can mimic numerous aesthetic options, including Mediterranean, Spanish, mission, or even slate and wood shake appearances.

Concrete tiles create a distinctive profile on homes, adding dimension and character to the roofline. They’re particularly common in the Southwestern United States, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and upscale homes. The tiles interlock during installation, creating a weather-resistant barrier that can withstand extreme conditions when properly installed and maintained.

Overview of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles dominate the American roofing market, covering approximately 80% of residential homes according to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association. These shingles consist of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules that provide color and UV protection. They come in two main varieties: three-tab (flat, uniform appearance) and architectural/dimensional (varied thickness creating shadow lines and texture).

Their popularity stems from their relatively low cost, ease of installation, and wide availability. Modern asphalt shingles have evolved to include options with enhanced wind resistance, algae protection, and even cool-roof technology to improve energy efficiency. They offer a clean, traditional appearance suitable for most architectural styles found throughout the United States.

Material Costs Comparison

Concrete tile typically costs $3-$5 per square foot for materials alone, while asphalt shingles range from $1-$4 per square foot for materials. However, this initial price difference only tells part of the story. Concrete tiles’ substantially longer lifespan often translates to lower lifetime costs despite the higher upfront investment.

Additional materials required for concrete tile roofs increase overall expenses. These include stronger structural support (possibly requiring engineering assessment and reinforcement), specialized underlayment systems, and specific flashing details. Asphalt shingle installations require standard underlayment and flashing materials, contributing to their cost-effectiveness.

Roofing Material	Material Cost (per sq ft)	Lifespan	Lifetime Cost Factor
Concrete Tile	$3-$5	50+ years	Lower long-term
Asphalt Shingles	$1-$4	15-30 years	Higher long-term

Installation Costs

Installation significantly impacts the total project cost for both roofing types. Concrete tile roof installation averages $7-$15 per square foot in labor costs due to specialized skills required, material weight handling, and precise installation techniques. This brings the total installed cost to approximately $10-$20 per square foot.

By comparison, asphalt shingle installation typically costs $2-$4 per square foot in labor, making the total installed cost around $3-$8 per square foot. The dramatic difference stems from several factors: concrete tiles weigh 900-1200 pounds per square (100 square feet), requiring structural evaluation and possibly reinforcement, while asphalt shingles weigh only 200-400 pounds per square.

Installation timeline also differs significantly. Professional teams can install asphalt shingle roofs on average homes in 1-3 days. Concrete tile installations frequently take 8-10 days due to the careful handling required and the precise placement of each tile. This extended timeline contributes to the higher labor costs associated with concrete tile roofing.

Pros of Concrete Tile Roofs

• Exceptional longevity – properly installed concrete tile roofs can last 50+ years, with some manufacturers offering lifetime warranties
• Superior durability – resistant to fire (Class A rating), high winds (can withstand 150+ mph when properly installed), and impact damage from hail
• Energy efficiency – the thermal mass of concrete tiles helps regulate indoor temperatures, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs by up to 20%
• Low maintenance requirements – generally only require periodic cleaning and inspection
• Environmentally friendly – made from natural materials and fully recyclable at end of life
• Enhanced curb appeal and home value – distinctive appearance can increase property values by 5-10% according to some real estate analyses

Cons of Concrete Tile Roofs

• High initial cost – among the most expensive roofing options for both materials and installation
• Significant weight – may require structural reinforcement, adding to project costs
• Potential for breakage – tiles can crack if walked on improperly or in severe impact events
• Complex installation – requires specialized expertise, extending project timelines
• Limited freeze-thaw suitability – may experience degradation in regions with frequent freeze-thaw cycles unless specifically manufactured for these conditions
• Color fading over time – especially with darker colors exposed to intense sunlight

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

• Affordability – most economical roofing option for initial installation
• Easy and quick installation – widely understood installation techniques allow for faster project completion
• Versatility – suitable for most roof pitches and architectural styles
• Wide availability – materials and qualified installers available virtually everywhere
• Variety of colors and styles – extensive aesthetic options to complement any home
• Simple repairs – damaged sections can be replaced individually without major roof work
• Quieter during rain – absorbs sound better than hard surfaces like concrete

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

• Shorter lifespan – typically 15-30 years depending on quality and climate conditions
• Vulnerable to extreme weather – high winds can lift shingles; may sustain damage in hail storms
• Less energy efficient – absorbs heat rather than reflecting it, though “cool roof” options are improving this
• Environmental impact – petroleum-based product that contributes to landfill waste (approximately 11 million tons annually according to EPA estimates)
• Susceptible to algae and moss growth – especially in humid climates, though algae-resistant options exist
• Less distinctive appearance – so common that they don’t significantly enhance curb appeal

Best Brands for Concrete Tile Roofs

Boral Roofing

Boral leads the concrete tile market with their extensive product lines including Barcelona, Saxony, and Madera. Their tiles feature advanced color technology providing fade resistance and come with 50-year limited warranties. Boral’s manufacturing facilities across North America ensure regional availability and designs appropriate for local climates.

Eagle Roofing Products

Eagle offers diverse profiles including high and medium barrel tiles, flat tiles, and shake alternatives. Their Platinum Advantage program includes enhanced warranties and color preservation guarantees. Eagle specializes in regionally appropriate designs for varied weather conditions and architectural styles.

Entegra Roof Tile

Entegra focuses on sustainability and durability. Their tiles incorporate advanced manufacturing techniques that enhance strength while reducing weight compared to traditional concrete tiles. Their color-through process ensures consistent appearance even with surface wear over decades of exposure.

Best Brands for Asphalt Shingles

GAF

As North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, GAF offers exceptional architectural shingles like Timberline HDZ with their proprietary LayerLock technology for enhanced wind resistance up to 130 mph. Their comprehensive warranty options include the Golden Pledge warranty when installed by Master Elite contractors, providing 50-year material coverage and 25-year workmanship protection.

Owens Corning

Owens Corning’s TruDefinition Duration shingles feature SureNail Technology, creating a triple layer of reinforcement. Their Platinum Protection warranty offers 50-year coverage when installed by Platinum Preferred Contractors. The company also champions sustainability with their shingle recycling program and energy efficient cool roof options.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed’s Landmark series provides dimensional appearance with dual-layer construction. Their Integrity Roof System approach ensures all components work together for optimal performance. The StreakFighter technology incorporates copper-containing granules to prevent algae growth, particularly valuable in humid regions.

Which Roofing Option Is Right for You?

Your ideal roofing choice depends on several key factors. Choose concrete tile if your budget accommodates higher upfront costs, your home has adequate structural support, you plan to stay long-term, and architectural style matches tile aesthetics. The long-term value and durability make concrete tiles particularly suitable for high-end homes in areas with extreme weather conditions like the Southwest.

Asphalt shingles represent the better choice when working with budget constraints, needing quick installation, residing in areas with frequent freeze-thaw cycles, or planning to sell within 5-10 years. Their universal acceptance and lower upfront costs make them practical for most mainstream residential applications across the United States.

Consider your local climate carefully in this decision. Concrete tiles excel in hot, sunny regions where their thermal properties and reflectivity provide energy benefits. Asphalt performs adequately in most climates but may require more frequent replacement in areas with temperature extremes or high UV exposure. Consulting with local roofing professionals familiar with regional conditions can provide valuable guidance for your specific situation.