If age has worn or natural disaster has destroy your  roof  or if you just want a change, tile is quick becoming a strong contender among  material  choices. It instantly gives appeal and character to a home, and there are some added advantages that do not come with traditional  roofing   materials .

Style, longevity and increased safety features are just a few of the reasons to consider the trend, and though, as with all products, there are a few cons, it is quick becoming competitive with other styles and materials available in the industry.

When making a home improvement, most homeowners must stick to a budget, and while these ceramic like shingles are initially more expensive that asphalt  roofing , the lifetime repair costs are likely to compensate. The clay from which the tile is made will last longer than any other type of  roofing   material . Eventually, if repairs do need to be made it will likely be to the structure underneath; the original materials can be used again and again after repairs. In fact, some companies will estimate the life of the product to over fifty years. How many rounds of asphalt shingles does a home devour in fifty years?

If your homeowner’s association allows it, this decision can really give character to your home. It can make your home instantly distinctive, and because there has been a focus to improve the product in recent years, the terracotta look that you may be imagining, although it’s a great look, need not be your final choice. Clay has recently been used to mock the look of a wooden shingles, and other looks and colors are also available.

With the clay material comes added fire safety and resistance to damage causing insects and decay. The cost of these risks alone is worth the extra cost to go with the different material.

As with all products, there are a few downsides that are worth mentioning. To begin, as previously discussed, the price of this option is initially more expensive; however, the initial expense is trumped by the fact that over a lifetime, the repairs and replacements are minimal. Tiles are also fragile, so walking on them can do quite a bit of damage. It is highly suggested that all work be completed by a professional, and if you are replacing a more traditional shingles, you may need to make come structural changes to the ceiling of your home in order to support the heavier material. But because the concrete is said to last forever, there will most likely never be a replacement cost after the initial purchase, although the underlayment-the material that the tiles lay on-may need replacing an average of every 15 years.

It is suggested that, no matter which kind of  roof  you are considering, that you consult with your homeowner’s association to ensure that your choice is accepted within the by-laws of your neighborhood.