Comparing Roofer’s Tiles: Clay vs. Concrete

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Choosing between clay and concrete roof tiles? Consider factors like weight, durability, and energy efficiency. Clay tiles are durable with superior water resistance, while concrete tiles are heavier and more cost-effective. Prestige Roofing in Las Vegas offers various roofing services, including free quotes

Concrete or Clay: Which Roof Tile is Right for You?

photo of housing complex adorned clay roof tiles

Tile roofs are among the most durable, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing roof styles. A well-constructed tile roof installation will last for decades or longer, providing enduring protection for your home. Tiles come in a variety of styles, adding a touch of elegance and beauty to your property. Roofers tiles fall into one of two main categories: clay tiles (sometimes known as Spanish tiles) and concrete tiles. Both are excellent choices, but they each have distinct advantages and considerations when making your selection. Here are some factors to ponder when deciding between concrete or clay tiles.

Topics we will cover in this post

What are Clay Roof Tiles?

closeup shot of clay tile roof installation

Clay tiles represent the oldest form of roof tile, with a rich history dating back centuries. They are crafted from baked clay, often referred to as terra cotta. The clay tile manufacturing process results in exceptionally hard and durable tiles, capable of withstanding the elements for years to come. Clay tiles typically exhibit a natural terra cotta color, but they may also come in a range of variations, spanning from white to brown. They are available in a few distinct styles, including Spanish or Mediterranean “S” shaped tiles, rounded “Mission” tiles, and interlocking shingles, a modern innovation that creates a smoother, flatter roofline.

Concrete Roof Tiles

photo of concrete tile roof

Concrete tiles are manufactured using cement, sand and water at high heat and pressure. Iron oxide is usually added for color. Once hardened, concrete tiles can be painted any color, making them highly versatile for homeowners looking for a unique, custom look. They come in three styles, low or no curves, medium, which is up to one inch height for every five inches of tile, and high, which is a rise higher than one inch. They can be manufactured in the style of other roof materials and offer a wider variety of choices in design and colors than clay tiles.

Comparing Roofers Tile: Clay vs. Concrete Tile Roofs

tile roof residential aerial shot

  • Weight Considerations: Tile roofs are generally heavier than other roofing materials, but concrete tiles weigh significantly more than clay tiles, accounting for about 40% more weight. Before embarking on concrete tile installation, a thorough structural inspection is crucial to ensure the home’s framework can adequately support the added weight. To maintain the integrity and safety of your residence, it’s recommended to entrust roofers tile installation to experienced professionals.
  • Durability and Lifespan: Both clay and concrete tiles outlast many other roofing materials in terms of durability. Clay tiles, in particular, are renowned for their exceptional hardness and weather resistance, boasting a lifespan that can extend up to a century or more. Concrete tiles, while still durable, typically have a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. While both clay and concrete tiles are robust, they may be susceptible to cracking or breakage over time, with the risk of damage being heightened by severe weather events or falling tree limbs. It’s advisable to conduct regular inspections of your tile roof following significant weather events to identify any potential damage to your roofers tile.
  • Weather Resistance: Roofers tiles, whether clay or concrete, demonstrate remarkable resilience against most weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall. Clay tiles exhibit superior water absorption properties, absorbing just 6% of moisture compared to concrete tiles’ 13%. This reduced water absorption makes clay tiles less prone to mold, moss, or mildew growth. Additionally, when wet, clay tiles add less weight to the roof compared to concrete tiles. However, clay tiles may be susceptible to cracking or shattering in extreme cold temperatures, making concrete tiles a more suitable choice for colder climates. In contrast, clay tiles are less vulnerable to sun damage over time.
  • Energy Efficiency: Both clay and concrete tiles excel as insulators. However, clay roofers tiles are generally considered more energy efficient due to their ability to absorb more heat than concrete tiles, preventing that heat from entering the home. This enhanced energy efficiency stems from clay tiles’ higher thermal mass, which allows them to retain heat during the day and release it at night. Both clay and concrete tiles can further enhance their energy efficiency when incorporated into a well-designed roofing system that includes insulation. From an overall energy consumption standpoint, concrete tiles hold an advantage due to their 30% lower energy consumption during manufacturing and their reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to clay tiles. Clay tiles, however, offer the benefit of being fully recyclable, as they can be reclaimed and returned to the soil.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Concrete tiles surpass clay tiles in terms of color and design options. While clay tiles typically exhibit a terracotta (red) hue, concrete tiles come in a wider spectrum of colors and patterns, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. Clay roofers tiles retain their original color over time, whereas painted concrete tiles may experience color fading. For homeowners seeking a personalized and visually captivating look, concrete tiles offer a more extensive range of choices.
  • Maintenance Considerations: Both clay and concrete tile roofs boast remarkable durability, but due to the potential for cracking or breakage, regular inspections by a qualified roofer are essential. Clay roofers tiles generally demand minimal maintenance, but they may be susceptible to cracking in extreme cold temperatures, necessitating replacement. Concrete tiles, with their higher moisture absorption, may accumulate moss or mold in wetter climates, requiring regular cleaning to prevent damage to the roof structure. Consistent inspection and maintenance will ensure that your tile roof retains its aesthetic appeal and protective functionality for many decades to come.
  • Tile Roof Repair: Tile roofs are known for their durability, but they may still require repairs from time to time. Common tile roof repairs include replacing damaged or cracked tiles, addressing leaks, and resealing tiles to prevent moisture intrusion. Regular inspections and prompt repair of any issues can help extend the lifespan of your tile roof and protect your home from damage.
  • Tile Roof Cost Comparison: Concrete tiles, owing to their streamlined manufacturing process, are generally more affordable than clay tiles. These roofrs tiles also come in a wider array of styles and colors, offering greater flexibility for budget-conscious homeowners. Clay tiles, while slightly more expensive upfront, including installation costs, typically last longer and require less ongoing maintenance, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run.

Clay Tile Roof: A Classic Choice for Enduring Protection and Beauty

Clay tile roofs have long been prized for their exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and ability to withstand the elements. These roofers tiles, often referred to as Spanish tiles, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home. Crafted from baked clay, clay tile roofs can last for decades or even centuries, providing enduring protection against the elements.

Concrete Tile Roof: A Durable and Versatile Option

Roofers tiles play a crucial role in the durability and versatility of concrete tile roofs. Manufactured from a combination of cement, sand, and water, concrete tiles are known for their strength and resilience, making them well-suited for a variety of climates and architectural styles. Concrete roofers tiles come in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to customize their roofs to match their unique preferences.

Reclaimed Roof Tiles

front home facade with reclaimed tiles used in custom tile roof installation

Clay tiles are a beautiful addition to your home, adding curb appeal and value to your home. One additional option with clay tiles is to add classic style and beauty with the use of imported reclaimed tiles. Because clay tiles are extremely durable, they can be salvaged and reused. Only tiles in good condition are reclaimed for custom installations. Reclaimed tiles from Europe, for example, can be imported and installed to give a home a unique, classic Mediterranean style. These tiles are a wonderful choice. for example for Spanish, Mission, Southwest or Mediterranean style home renovations. Style and color may depend on availability.

Alternatively, metal tile roofs offer a lightweight, energy-efficient, and long-lasting alternative to clay and concrete tiles.

Prestige Roofing Las Vegas Tile Roofing

Prestige Roofing offers a full range of roofing services and roofer’s tiles in Las Vegas and surrounding communities. Since our founding in 1995, we have installed thousands of tile roofs, including concrete and clay tiles, as well as beautiful imported reclaimed tiles. We offer a wide selection of tiles to fit your home and budget. For more information and a free quote, give Prestige Roofing a call at (702) 646-7536.

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How to Build a Roof: Roof Construction Made Easy

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roof construction in process

Building a safe and durable roof for a home or other building involves planning and carrying out a number of important steps. Each step is necessary to make sure the roof can do its job to safeguard the structure from wind, rain, snow, and ice, protect the building from water leaks, and even help reduce its flammability. A safe installation also involves proper preparation and handling of materials at the roof construction site.

Here is what we will cover:

How Do You Build a Roof?

Before You Start

Man knocking on the front door of a home on a sunny day.

Before your roof replacement project begins, there are a couple of important steps to take first. These are getting a thorough inspection of the existing roof and putting together a project plan.

Roof inspection: A roof inspection of your old roof will give your roofer some important information. The roofer will assess the design and structure of your roof, which will help them determine the right roofing materials and other components. It will also determine the techniques and tools that will be required, what type of remediation of existing problems might be needed, and other details. Your roofer will pay attention to details like drainage and openings so that they can plan to order the right components to make sure water runoff will be properly redirected away from your home. The roofer will also determine the type of building permits needed for the project.

As part of the inspection, your roofer may suggest a few things for you to do to prepare the site. For a residential roofing project, this might include trimming tree branches and bushes that overhang the roof and moving items in the yard that will impede work, such as tools or yard furniture close to the house.

Project plan: Your project plan is vital to a successful project. If you are building a new roof, you will choose a style of roof and work with an architect to complete the design the roofer will use to build it. There are many types of roof to choose from. If it’s a roof replacement, you will set a budget and select roofing materials. Your choice will also depend on the style of your home, the roof pitch, the climate in your area, and roof designs in your neighborhood, especially if there are homeowners’ association guidelines to be followed. Your roofer will go over roof material choices with you, which, in some cases, may also include roof fixtures, gutters, or other items that are needed. This is a good time to ask questions about durability and performance of the materials.

Your roofer will complete the project plan with the intended roof design and provide the total estimated cost of the job. Now that you have the plan, work can begin.

Steps to Build a Roof

Your materials have arrived and your project is now underway. There are three major stages to carry out to build your new roof.

Remove the Old Roof

professional roofers laying roofing tiles

The first step, removing the old roof, happens as follows:

  1. Remove loose debris like branches, nails, broken roof shingles, and other items on the old roof. This clears the way for workers to expedite the roof removal.
  2. Examine the roof for visibly damaged areas, such as moisture or rot that could endanger a roofer. Make any repairs needed to stabilize that area and make sure the roof deck is in good condition for construction of the new roof.
  3. Remove components such as flashing and drainage to ready the roof so tiles can come off.
  4. Remove the old roofing materials. They may come up individually, in sections, or be cut into pieces for removal, such as asphalt tiles.

With the roof removed, another close inspection is carried out to find any areas of the frame and underlying areas that need repair.

Once the preparation of the roof area is complete, it’s time to install the new roof.

Install the New Roof

roof construction project in las vegas

The new roof is built layer by layer, and the roof materials installed from the bottom roof edge upward.

  1. Install the underlayment. This usually consists of self-adhesive waterproof sheets that roll out and cover the roof deck to protect the structure from water and ice.
  2. Add a layer of tar paper that will help direct water that gets under the shingles to roll off the roof. It also helps to reduce flammability. This material is attached in sections and stapled to the underlayment.
    roofing tiles being installed by worker

    Construction workers Fixing roof tiles, with roofing tools, electric drills used on roofs in safety kits for safety.

  3. Install the roofing materials. If they are shingles, this starts at the bottom and the shingles are layered downward to direct water flow toward the ground. The shingles are attached using a nail gun. Metal roofing will be installed in sheets and attached with screws of the same material. This is the most time-consuming part of the project.
  4. Install the metal flashing around roof fixtures that overlay the edges of the new roof shingles, preventing water leaks. Reattach or install gutter systems, as needed. For metal roofs, add the edging or eaves to finish off the installation.view of roof shingles in residential roofing project
  5. Cap the roof ridge. These roof shingles run along the top ridge of the roof and are a different shape. They are attached with longer nails as they go through the initial layer of shingles.
  6. Check seals and clean up. The installer will do a final check for exposed or protruding nails, clean up debris, and make sure all components are installed properly.
  7. Inspection and Site Cleanup. The site supervisor will inspect the entire roof and make sure everything is securely and correctly installed. They will check that all roof openings, like vents and skylights, are properly sealed. Meanwhile, the entire property will be cleaned up of any stray nails and screws, roofing materials, tools, or other debris, so the property is left safe and in the condition it was before the project began.

Owner Inspection and Project Closure

residential roofing installation

Once the new roof is installed, the roofer will conduct a final inspection to ensure that the project was completed according to the plan and to your satisfaction. They will also explain the roof warranty and any upkeep that may be required.

The roof warranty will typically cover defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period of time. It is important to read the warranty carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.

The roof may also require some ongoing upkeep, such as cleaning and repairing any damage. It is important to follow the roofer’s recommendations for upkeep to ensure that your roof lasts for many years.

Prestige Roofing has been installing beautiful roofs in Las Vegas for over 25 years. If you are looking to replace your roof in the Las Vegas area, give us a call at 702-646-7536.

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Finding the Perfect Roofer: A Guide to Choosing New Roof Tiles

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How to Choose New Roof Tiles for Your Roofing Project

Aerial view of a quality roofing installationReplacing your roof is a big project, so it’s important to have a plan and make the best choice for your new roof tiles. As a homeowner, it’s important to have some knowledge about the process of selecting roofing materials so you can ask the right questions and discuss options with your roofing professional.

Here are some things to consider before you decide on your new roof tiles while choosing a qualified roofer in your area:

Selecting your New Roof Tiles

Durability and Reliability of Roofing Materials

Your roof is key to protecting your entire home. Your new roof should be ready to take on that job for decades to come. Any new roof tiles you select should be both durable and reliable. There are various types of roofing. Some types of tiles are more durable than others. For example, slate tiles may last over 100 years, and clay or cement tiles around 50-100 years. The lifetime of asphalt roof tiles is 15-30 years.

Consider the lifespan of different tile materials, such as slate, clay, cement, or asphalt, and choose reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality tiles to ensure a quality roofing installation.
Another thing to check is the manufacturer’s warranty.

Architectural Style and Structure of Your Roofing Project

Tile Roof Installation

Your new roof tiles should complement the architectural style and structure of your home. The type of tiles you choose may depend on factors such as the framing required, the pitch of your roof, and the overall aesthetic appeal you’re aiming for with your roofing project. Consult with an experienced and reliable roofer who can guide you in selecting tiles that not only fit your home but also enhance its visual appeal.

To enhance the beauty of your home, match your roof tiles to the style of your home during your roofing project. A historic Colonial or Victorian home, for example, will look good with a slate roof. Clay tiles, new or reclaimed, will enhance the beauty of a Mediterranean-style home. The preferred choice for stucco homes, common in the Southwest, is generally concrete tiles, which are available in many different styles, textures, and colors.

Consider the roofing materials and styles most common in your neighborhood so that your home doesn’t look out of place. Match the style, color, and texture of the roof tiles to other features of your home. This will maintain a consistent look and help highlight your home’s best features.

Roof Tile Characteristics on Roofing Installations

Roof tiles have different characteristics to be considered in the selection process, depending on the roofing materials and other factors. It’s important to know how tiles perform under different conditions. Some of the characteristics you and your roofer may look for in the tiles you choose include fire resistance, wind resistance, thermal properties (how well they help maintain the temperature in your home in hot and cold weather), sound resistance, and moisture retention (do they absorb moisture and become heavier?). Tiles that are interlocking, for example, will better weatherproof your home. Your roof pitch may affect your choice of tiles as well.

Other questions you may have for your roofer about your choice of tiles include how easy they are to install and maintain, how your tiles change over time, or if you live by the coast, how they handle salt air. The characteristics of your new tiles will include how they are laid out, affecting the overall look of the finished roof. Discuss these characteristics with your roofing professional to make an informed decision.

Roofing Project Pricing

Price is a primary factor for most homeowners when choosing new roof tiles and quality roofing. You will want to find the best performing tiles for your budget. Four factors to consider when budgeting for your new roof are:

  1. What is the cost of the tiles?
  2. How does the choice of the tiles affect installation cost?
  3. How long will your tiles last (tiles that have to be replaced in 15 years, in the long run, will be more expensive than tiles that last 30, 50, or 100 years)?
  4. How much maintenance or possible repairs will this roof need over time, adding to the overall cost of the roof?

Other Considerations for Your Roofing Project

low pitch quality roof tile installation

Local Building Code

For every quality roofing installation, your roof will need to comply with any local building codes. You may also need to be in compliance with any HOA rules if you are part of a Homeowners’ Association. Your licensed roofer will help make sure you meet the local building requirements. Speak with them about this process and be sure to get copies for your records if there are any permits or other documentation involved.

Maintenance and Repair Needs for Various Types of Roofing


When choosing a roof, ask about what type of routine maintenance you should expect from your roofing experts. When possible, choose a roof that needs little care, as these roofs are usually sturdy, waterproof, and durable to begin with. With quality roofing, repairs should only be needed in case of storm damage, such as a falling tree.

The type of roofing materials you select for your roofing project is dependent on several factors. Don’t select roof tiles that will not handle the most severe weather conditions for your area. In hot zones, choose tiles that are not damaged by the UV rays of the sun. In rainy, windy, or stormy climates, be sure tiles will hold up to severe rainstorms and not break or move, allowing water to seep under the tiles. If you experience frequent freezes, tiles should be able to handle large temperature swings and ice buildup without warping or breaking, which can cause roof leaks.

Proper Roof Installation

Installation during a roofing project by roofing professionals

Key to the success of your new roof is correct, professional, quality installation. Unqualified roofers may not properly nail tiles in the pattern and places needed to ensure they stay in place regardless of the weather. A licensed, experienced roofer with a focus on workmanship quality and extensive roofing industry knowledge will have the necessary training and experience to ensure a proper installation. They will know how to install the underlayment and flashing and how to lay the tiles so they remain securely in place, protecting your home for decades to come. Regardless of the quality or price of your roof materials, the cost to correct the problems can be high if they are not installed correctly. Therefore, choosing a trustworthy and skilled contractor who prioritizes workmanship quality is crucial for the long-term performance and durability of your roof.

Roof Warranty

Your roof warranty will be a reflection of the quality of the materials and manufacturing. Select a reputable manufacturer and read the warranty before making your final decision. Your manufacturer will usually have a standard manufacturer warranty, covering the materials in case of factory defect. Your professional roofer may offer a craftsmanship warranty on the installation work they do for you. Extended warranties may be available for an extra cost to cover your complete roofing system for an extended period.

Choosing A Professional Roofer

Probably the most important choice you will make when selecting your new roof tiles is the roofer. Finding a good roofing contractor requires that you keep a few things in mind. Your roofer should be reliable and able to guide you through the entire process, installing the new tiles to your satisfaction. The knowledge and experience of a qualified roofer make all the difference between a successful roofing project and one filled with poor decisions, delays, and mistakes.

When choosing your roofer, be sure they are licensed and carry insurance. It’s important to know they have expertise in your type of project. You can check out their portfolio of local projects or ask for a few references from satisfied clients. . To avoid fly-by-night contractors, check that they have a local office in your area.

Most of all, meet with your roofer before you sign, and make sure they are someone you can work with, and that both of you have the same goals for your roofing project. A good roofer will explain their process, walk you through their contract, and answer your questions. They will also have expert recommendations for roofing materials from reputable manufacturers.

Las Vegas Roofer

Team photo of Prestige Roofing Professionals with Company - Over 25 Years of Roofing Industry Knowledge

Prestige Roofing has been installing roofs in Las Vegas for over 25 years. We have roofing industry knowledge through years of experience with concrete and clay tile roof installations, slate, shake roof shingles, and custom metal roofing, including copper and zinc. If you have a roofing project in Las Vegas and need help selecting the best roof tiles for your home, give us a call at 702-646-7536.

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Clay vs. Concrete Roof Tiles

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Huge luxury home with new tile roof in Henderson, Nevada

Clay or Concrete Tile Roofing for your Las Vegas Home?

There are quite a few reasons for the enduring popularity of tile roofs. When properly installed, you get a potent combination of energy savings, durability, beauty and protection that many other roofing materials can’t match. The two most popular types of tile roofing are concrete and clay tiles. But which one suits your home if you’re looking to build a new home or reroof your existing home? How well does each version hold up under various seasonal weather conditions, particularly here in Las Vegas? Let’s look at how clay and concrete roof tiles compare in some important categories.

Weight of Roof Tiles

Your home must be able to bear the weight of your roofing materials, which is why we’re looking at this category first. The weight of concrete tiles can be anywhere from 820 to 1,100 pounds per square foot. Compare that to clay, which comes to only 600-650 pounds per square foot. That means concrete tiles can weight up to 40% more than clay tiles.If you’re considering going with clay or concrete tiles for your new or existing roof, and you have not previously cleared it for tile roofing, have the frame of your home inspected by a qualified roofing engineer. This will make sure the integrity of your home isn’t compromised. You may have to add additional support to handle the extra weight of the tiles.

Water Absorption

Clay roof tiles on a gently sloped roof brown and aged

Las Vegas experiences its own “monsoon season” which brings heavy rainstorms and even hail to the area. Both concrete and clay tiles have a high resistance to heavy winds and hail. However, clay tiles have an advantage when it comes to heavy rains. They only absorb around 6% of water, lowering the chances of mildewing and other water damage. Certain varieties of tiles come with ceramic finishes, reducing water retention rates and mildew concerns to nearly zero. Concrete tiles, on the other hand, have a water absorption rate of up to 13%, twice that of clay. While most homes are built to handle normal precipitation, you may have concerns the changing climate may bring instances of unusually heavy rainfall. Talk to your roofing engineer about the best way to protect your roof and home from damage in that situation.

Durability

Southwest style tile roof home and garden with new tile roof and roof fixtures

Both clay and concrete tiles leave most other roofing materials in the dust when it comes to longevity. Still, clay is king when it comes to endurance, capable of lasting through several generations of homeowners. Many clay roofs look fantastic decades after installation, with a lifespan of 60-100 years. Concrete tiles are highly durable as well, lasting 50 or more years. Even though Las Vegas generally has relatively mild winters, we do have occasional snowfalls and freezes. Clay may shatter under extreme freeze-and-thaw conditions, while concrete tiles don’t have the same vulnerability.

Ease of Maintenance

If you have a tile roof, you are not off the hook for general roof maintenance. Remember the underlayment of your roof, including the membrane that keeps moisture from entering your home, may need repair or replacement before the tiles themselves have to be replaced. Have your roof inspected regularly to catch problems or wear-and-tear early. 

Appearance

Multicolor concrete roof tiles on sloped roof

Since it’s a natural material, clay tiles coated with the right finish can maintain their brightness for decades. The color-thru technology used to give concrete tiles their appearance can wear off over time, causing them to fade. The porousness of the material makes concrete tiles more prone to absorbing stains than clay tiles. Talk to your roofer about how your tiles will age before you decide so you have a good idea of what to expect. Concrete tiles are available in many colors and designs, including tiles that look like wood, clay, slate, and stone. That gives you a few more options over you choices in clay tiles. You can also give your roof a unique look by blending several different concrete tile colors and varieties.For a unique, classic look, you may even decide to use antique or reclaimed tiles for your roof project. These tiles may be sourced from Europe or other places to provide a classic look to your home. Reclaimed tiles can enhance the beauty and value of your home and, properly prepared and installed, will provide the same protection as new tiles.

Consult a Las Vegas Roofing Professional

Tile roofing is a great solution for many homeowners. A tile roof provides you with a long-lasting, beautiful roof that is well-suited to our strong suns and southwest architectural styles. The cost of tile roofing is reasonable, providing good value over time due to its durability and protective qualities. And there are many color and design options that make tile an exciting choice so you can build the roof that fits your taste and needs. Both clay and concrete tiles are great options for any Las Vegas home.For the best results of your roofing project, consult an experienced and qualified roofing professional before making a roofing material decision. A professional roofer can evaluate the state of your home and provide you with the choices that will best suit your needs. For more information on how to select a new tile roof in Las Vegas, call Prestige Roofing today at 702-646-7536.

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All About Tile Roofing

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Learn why a Tile Roof is a Smart Choice for Las Vegas

Tile roofing is very common in Las Vegas and throughout the Southwest.  There are good reasons for that and in our infographic we lays out some of its great qualities for you. For example, did you know that tile roofing is a great energy saver, because the clay tiles reflect heat, and there’s air circulation under the layered tiles that adds an additional cooling effect. And tile roofs last a long time, they’re wind and fire resistant and overall a great choice for our area. Take a look and learn to appreciate your tile roof!

Prestige Tile Roofing-infographic

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