Terracotta Roof Tiles - What to Know About This Material?

Terracotta roof tiles aren’t customary in Canada. Yet, it’s such a unique material. In some European countries, such as France and Portugal, the majority of homes are accented by terracotta roof tiles. Several businesses offer this sort of roofing installation service, but since it’s not a common option on this side of the ocean, there’s still work to be done to familiarize the greater public with this roofing material.

Are you drawn to terracotta roof tiles? Want to know if you can install terracotta roof tiles on your house in Canada?

We gathered all the must-know information to help you make the right decision. 

What Are Terracotta (Clay) Roof Tiles?

Terracotta is an Italian word that translates to baked earth. In the construction industry, both terms are used interchangeably. Terracotta is made with clay, which is then fired into a ceramic state. 

In North America, ceramic is most often associated with tiles found in kitchens and bathrooms, but this material can also be used as roofing. As mentioned, it’s very common in Europe, but also widespread in Asia and Africa. As antique as it comes, it’s still very much favoured for its versatility and advantageous characteristics.

Why Choose Spanish-Style Terracotta Roof Tiles?

Have you been won over by the beauty of Spanish-inspired terracotta roof tiles? To know whether it’s the right option for you, take a look at the advantages and drawbacks of terracotta.

Advantages of Terracotta Roof Tiles

• Long lifespan (at least 30 years, inching up to 70+ years)

• Provides good thermal insulation

• Easy to install

• Can be installed on a sloped roof, but being as versatile as it is, it suits all roof shapes

• Will never rot

• Available in an array of colours and textures

• Fireproof surface

• Weatherproof

• Made with natural materials, so very eco-friendly

• Meets requirements for certain types of buildings (e.g. heritage buildings)

What Are the Disadvantages of Terracotta Roof Tiles?

• Terracotta is a material that’s better suited to warmer, humid climates

• Barrel shape tiles make clearing snow off a roof more challenging

• Tiles are heavyweight, adding excessive weight to the house’s structure

• Mandate regular maintenance

• Requires a waterproofing membrane to shield the structure from freeze and prevent water ingress

• Temperature differences can damage the tiles

• Tiles can break (e.g. branch lands on the rooftop, breaking a tile)

• Not all roofing companies offer terracotta roof tile installation or maintenance services

• Terracotta roof tiles are often very expensive

• Tiles can fade over time (something to consider, but it can also make for an aesthetic look)

Red Terracotta Roof Tiles vs. Slate Roof Tiles

Slate is another tile roofing material that’s valued for its beauty and durability. It also shares the following advantages with terracotta clay tiles:

• Long-lasting: Slate exceeds 100 years

• Highly resilient: Similarly to terracotta, slate is rot-proof, fireproof, and waterproof

• Aesthetically pleasing: Slate suits heritage homes and contemporary builds alike

However, note that slate roofing is typically more expensive than terracotta.

How to Install Terracotta Roof Tiles

Even if we stated above that terracotta (clay) roof tiles are easy to install, we advise against heading the DIY route with such a project if you don’t have prior roofing experience. This task entails several steps that can’t be rushed nor botched, otherwise, the material’s lifespan, access to insurance, and maintenance fees will be affected.  

If you simply want to familiarize yourself with the installation process or you’ve already installed roofing before, but never terracotta, the following paragraphs contain pertinent information.

Necessary Materials and Tools

• Ladder

• Waterproofing membrane

• Roof sealants

• Nails or screws (select based on tile model)

• Tape measure

• Level

• Security harness

• Roof tile cutter

• Hammer or screwdriver for roofing materials

• Mortar or other type of adhesive

• Metallic flashing

• Ridge and hip tiles

Installation Guidelines

First and foremost, make sure the house’s structure is strong enough to bear the weight of the terracotta tiles since they’re heavy. Have the building’s framework inspected to ensure it’s in good shape.

If the structure must be reinforced, it should be done prior to installing the roofing tiles and waterproofing membrane. Furthermore, if you’re replacing roofing, the existing material should be removed prior to moving on to the next step.

To ensure the roofing is waterproof, abiding by specific steps is crucial, such as laying a waterproofing membrane and installing metallic flashing. 

Next, time to install the roofing tiles. Since terracotta tiles are retailed in a slew of different shapes, adapt your installation method according to the instructions provided with the selected model. You may need to cut your tiles down to the right size to fit them in tighter areas.

Once all surface tiles are installed, then comes the tile to install the ridge and hip tiles. Lastly, if need be, you can add a layer of mortar and/or sealant in specific areas to ensure your roof is perfectly waterproof.

Who Should You Hire to Install Terracotta Roof Tiles? 

Hire a qualified roofer specializing in roof tiles. Some roofing companies don’t offer this type of service, preferring instead to specialize in asphalt shingle or steel roofs.

Useful Tips for Installing Terracotta Roofing Tiles

If you plan on installing clay roof tiles yourself, here’s some useful information to go by:

• Take some time to carefully measure your roof to purchase enough tiles.

• Carry a level with you at all times to make sure the tiles are laid in straight lines.

• If your roof has a steep slope, you might need to install additional battens on which you can screw your tiles to keep them in place.

Are Terracotta Roof Tiles Expensive?

Per square feet, terracotta roofing tiles cost roughly $10–$16. However, said price range doesn’t include installation or structural repair fees, permit costs, or current roofing material removal.

To compare costs with other roofing materials, check out our roofing material cost guide.

How to Upkeep and Maintain Terracotta Roofing Tiles

Terracotta tiles have a lengthy lifespan and are highly resistant, but to ensure said longevity, proper upkeep and maintenance are paramount. It’s important to carry out a decent roof inspection every year to spot any weaknesses or damage. Damaged tiles must be replaced and roof sections resealed accordingly.

Note that moss or algae can form in between roofing tiles. If so, remove organic matter immediately and put in zinc or copper strips in targeted areas as a preventative measure.

Lastly, don’t forget about your gutters! Overlooking their maintenance could lead to serious roof damage.

How to Clean Terracotta Roof Tiles: Maintenance and Upkeep Methods

Keep all documents that came with the roofing tiles as they include roof maintenance pointers. Maintenance methods vary from one roofing tile model to the other, but, in most cases, general roof maintenance is done with water and a mild cleaner.

Do you live in a coastal area or surrounded by nature; do dirt, leaves, and earth tend to build up on your rooftop? Up your cleaning routine to 2 to 3 times a year. 

Lastly, never overlook safety. Since you’ll have to climb onto your roof, said maintenance procedure does come with some risks. Here’s our advice.

Common Types of Repairs

As a tiled roof owner, the most common repair you’re likely to make is replacing damaged or worn tiles. It’s a rather simple undertaking, but you can’t go about it in any which way! First, lift the damaged tile, remove it, and then lay the replacement tile.

How Long Do Terracotta Roof Tiles Last?

A complete reroofing project isn’t always the first and only solution; small repairs can be done over time.

The Warning Signs of Necessary Reroofing

Some warning signs alert you to major roof repairs, such as:

• Several damaged tiles

• Roof water ingress

• Your roofing was installed over 30 years ago

• Your gutters are filled with roofing debris

Are you having trouble determining whether your roof needs repair? This article will point you in the right direction: When Should You Change Your Roofing?

When Is the Best Time to Reroof?

For obvious reasons, such work will probably not be carried out during the wintertime. Usually, roof renovation projects are done towards the end of spring, midway through fall (May–October).

How Long Does It Take to Repair Terracotta Roof Tiles?

Project duration varies significantly based on several factors. We’re talking, on average, 3–5 days for a straightforward installation, including laying waterproofing fabrics and finishes. However, if the old roofing has to be removed and the house’s structure reinforced, several more days will be needed to complete the project.

As for restoration work, it can last anywhere from one to three days, depending on the extent of the repairs needed.

FAQ About Roofing

What is the cheapest roofing material?

Amongst all roofing materials sold in Canada, asphalt shingles are the most affordable, followed by aluminum and multi-layered asphalt roofing. However, that doesn’t mean said products have better value-based pricing, given that asphalt shingles aren’t as long-lasting as terracotta, steel, or slate. Consider the roofing material’s cost-effectiveness above all.

What is the sturdiest roofing material?

The most long-lasting roofing materials are, without a doubt, steel, slate, and terracotta. Said materials are very robust and, if properly maintained, will remain in good condition for decades, even if exposed to all sorts of weather patterns.