Why homeowners choose clay tile
- Color that lasts. The color is fired into the clay, so it holds up to the Florida sun instead of fading like painted or coated surfaces.
- Very long life. Clay tiles themselves can last for decades. On a tile roof, the underlayment underneath is usually what wears out first, which is why we put so much attention there.
- The authentic look. True barrel and Spanish profiles with natural color variation that concrete tile imitates.
- Heat. The air space under barrel tile helps keep heat off the roof deck.
Clay vs. concrete tile
| Clay tile | Color fired through the tile, lighter per tile, premium price, the traditional choice for historic and Mediterranean homes. |
|---|---|
| Concrete tile | Lower cost, wide range of profiles and colors, heavier, surface color can weather over time. |
Both can be excellent roofs in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone when installed to the product's Miami-Dade approval. We'll price both so you can compare. More on tile roofing →
How we install a clay tile roof
- Tear-off to the deck, with damaged plywood replaced and the deck re-nailed to current code.
- High-temperature underlayment rated for tile, the layer that actually keeps water out for the life of the roof.
- Tile attachment per the product approval: foam adhesive or mechanical fastening as the NOA requires for your roof's wind zone.
- Hips, ridges and eaves finished by hand, with bird stops and closures at the eaves.
- Flashing at walls, chimneys, towers and valleys, where most tile roof leaks start.
Coral Gables and architectural review
In Coral Gables, roof changes go through the city's Board of Architects, and barrel tile in approved colors is common across the city. If you're changing tile color or profile, plan for that review before the permit. We'll help prepare the product and color information. Confirm current requirements with the city. Luxury roofing by neighborhood →
Colors and brands
We bring the manufacturers' actual color charts to your estimate and include them in your proposal, so you pick your color from real samples, not a phone screen. Ask us which clay and concrete tile lines are available for your home.
Clay Tile Roofing FAQ
How long does a clay tile roof last in Miami?
The clay tiles themselves can last for decades. The underlayment beneath them is usually the part that needs replacing first, so a quality underlayment installed correctly is what makes the roof last.
Can I walk on a clay tile roof?
It's best not to. Clay tile can crack under foot traffic. Our crews know where to step, and we recommend calling a roofer instead of walking the roof yourself.
Can you reuse my existing clay tiles?
Sometimes. If the tiles are in good shape and the profile is still approved, reusing them can preserve a historic look. We'll check how many are sound and whether it makes sense for your roof.
Is clay tile allowed in my HOA?
Most Mediterranean-style neighborhoods allow or prefer tile, but approved colors and profiles vary. Check your HOA's rules, and we'll help with the product information they need.