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Shingle Roof vs. Tile Roof: What’s the Difference?

See how shingle and tile roofs compare on key factors to decide which is right for your home.

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Written by Angela Bunt

Angela Bunt

Angela Bunt is an accomplished writer and editor with more than a decade of experience producing consumer-facing content. She has previously written and edited in the lifestyle, music, and health categories, but has specialized in home improvement content since becoming a homeowner. Her work has…

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Shingles and tiles are two of the most popular roof materials. Both are durable and have plenty of curb appeal, but they are different in appearance and performance. This guide compares shingle and tile roofs to help you determine the best type of roof for your home and budget.

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What Is the Difference Between Shingle and Tile?

The main difference between tile and shingle roofs is the material. Shingle roofs are primarily made from asphalt or a composite material, while tile roofs typically use more elegant, natural materials such as slate or terracotta. This results in different installation costs, lifespans, appearances, and more. Below is a breakdown of these key differences. 

Cost

Cost is a key factor for many homeowners when deciding between tile and shingle roofs. See the average costs for each option below.

Shingles are significantly less expensive than tile.

Shingle roofs cost

an average of $4,200

–

$7,900 for a 1,500 square foot roof, including labor and materials.* However, it’s normal for the price to range as low as $3,000 or as high as $15,000 depending on roof size and other factors. 

You can expect a new asphalt shingle roof to cost roughly $4 per square foot. If you’re replacing an existing roof, add at least $0.75 per square foot to cover removal costs.

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost for an asphalt shingle roof by house size.

Choosing a more expensive type of shingle, such as composite, metal, or wood shingles, would increase the cost. Roof Size (Square Feet)Average Cost (With Installation)

1,000

1,250

$3,500–$7,800

1,500

$4,200–$7,900

1,750

$4,900–$9,200

2,000

$5,600–$10,500

A tile roof costs significantly more than a shingle roof, with an average of between $15,000 and $35,000 for a 1,500 square foot roof. You could pay anywhere between $7 and $41 per square foot for a tile roof. Professional tile roof installation on a 2,000-square-foot home could cost well over $60,000.

See how much a tile roof costs for various home sizes below.

Roof Size (Square Feet)Average Cost (With Installation)

1,000

$7,400–$31,000

1,250

$8,600–$54,800

1,500

$10,200–$60,900

1,750

$13,200–$74,600

2,000

$14,100–$81,500

*Cost figures are based on contractor estimates used by Angi and Fixr.

Maintenance

Maintaining a tile roof is a lot less taxing and expensive than a shingle roof. This is partly because the material is so durable. The maintenance process for both roof types is similar: You should schedule an annual roof inspection to check for broken or missing shingles or tiles.

Never use a pressure washer on either type of roof. If you have a clay tile roof, avoid walking on it, as this could break the tiles. If you find a broken tile or shingle, replace it as soon as possible to avoid more widespread roof damage.

Durability and Lifespan

A well-maintained tile roof has a much longer lifespan than a shingle roof. Tile roofs last between 25 and 100 years, depending on the material. Metal and slate tiles last the longest, with slate potentially lasting more than a century. 

Basic three-tab asphalt shingles only last 15–20 years. Architectural and composite shingles last a bit longer—up to 30 years—because they’re thicker and use more durable materials, including fiberglass, asphalt, and recycled paper.

Climate

Both shingle and tile roofs work in all types of climates. However, you won’t find as many tile roofs in the northern United States because clay tiles may not stand up to freezing conditions well. Newer composite and metal tile roofs can handle any climate, so look for these materials if your home experiences a freeze-and-thaw cycle. 

Asphalt performs well in all climates, making it a popular option across the country. Unfortunately, dry, sweltering climates shorten the lifespan of both roof types. Ceramic tile or concrete roofs perform better in these climates. 

Installation Process

The installation process for shingle and tile roofs varies by material. Shingles are easy to install: tabs overlap and are nailed down and sealed. Roofers typically place underlayment beneath shingles. Underlayment is a layer of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) that lies between the shingles and roof deck, providing a second layer of protection from rain, snow, and wind. Without this, your roof will be more prone to water damage and may require more frequent repairs.

Tile roofs are slightly more challenging to install. Tiles weigh more than shingles and often require additional support and reinforcement. Tile roofs also require underlayment, but the installation process is slower and more involved than shingle roofs. For example, a terracotta tile roof must be cemented into place one tile at a time. This process often takes several days to complete, depending on the roof size, whereas asphalt shingle roof installation can often be completed in one day.

Return on Investment

Any new roof increases your home’s resale value. However, a tile roof’s quality and curb appeal provides a slightly higher return on investment (ROI) than a shingle roof. You’ll have an even lower ROI if you choose to lay new asphalt shingles over old ones to cut up-front costs.

Shingle Roofing

Shingles are the most popular type of roofing material in the United States because they’re affordable, easy to install, and low maintenance. Shingles vary in materials and thickness, with the most popular options being composite and asphalt shingles. Each shingle is a small rectangular sheet made of flexible material that’s installed in overlapping rows to keep out water and environmental hazards.

Pros and Cons of Shingle Roofing

Affordable

Straightforward to install

Easy to customize with various colors and styles

Shorter lifespan than other roof types

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Requires more maintenance than other roofs

Less energy efficient and insulating than other roof types

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Contact us to discuss your requirements of gutter types and sizes. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Tile Roofing

Though tile roofs are similar to shingle roofs in design, they use higher-quality materials such as clay, slate, or concrete. Roofing tiles hang in overlapping parallel rows to form a watertight seal. Tiles are more visually appealing, environmentally friendly, and durable than asphalt shingles. Tile roofs can easily last over 100 years, and many manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty. 

Pros and Cons of Tile Roofing

Long lifespan–up to 100 years

Resistant to rot and insect damage

More energy-efficient

than asphalt shingles

May require installing additional roof support

Higher up-front cost than other roof types

Not suitable for all roof slopes and climates

Other Roof Types

If neither a traditional shingle nor tile roof fits your needs, consider the following alternative roofing options:

• Built-up roofing (BUR) ($1 per square foot):

  Built-up roofing, or BUR, is used primarily for flat roofs. The roof is made from multiple layers of asphalt, ply sheets, aggregate, and other materials. It protects from ultraviolet (UV) damage and has excellent waterproofing.

• Cedar shakes ($5–$13.90 per square foot): Wooden shingles are similar to the other shingles mentioned in this guide, but wooden roofs can also be made from wooden shakes. A shake is hand-split on one side, creating a more rustic look, and they’re better in certain weather conditions, such as high winds. Cedar shakes are one of the most common wooden roofing materials.
• Green roofing ($10–$35 per square foot):

  Green roofing is relatively new to the United States, but it’s growing in popularity. Green roofs use plants and other local foliage to create a high-value and unique roof. These roofs increase your home’s energy efficiency. The money you’ll save on energy costs can offset the high up-front investment.

• Metal roofing ($4–$3 per square foot):

  Metal roofs

  have a life expectancy of 30–50 years, making them an excellent investment. They’re known to decrease energy bills, in turn increasing ROI. These roofs come in many styles and materials. All options are durable, easy to maintain, and fire and weather resistant.

• Solar roofing ($20–$25 per square foot):

  Solar roofing is an excellent option for homeowners who are converting to solar power but want to maintain their home’s aesthetics. This roofing mimics traditional roofing but generates energy like traditional solar panels. If interested, you’ll want to work with a

  top solar company

  rather than a professional roofing company.

For a quick overview of the most popular roofing materials, check out the video below. General contractor Tom Silva compares the cost, durability, and pros and cons of four popular roofing materials—asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal sheeting, and clay tiles.

Things To Consider When Choosing a Roof Type

Curb appeal matters when shopping for a new roof, but it’s not the only factor. Your roof contributes to almost everything that makes your home livable. Consider the following factors to determine the right roofing material for your home and lifestyle: 

Budget:

Assess your finances to set a realistic budget. Different roofing materials can vary significantly in price, and you’ll want to account for labor, permits, and unexpected changes or repairs.

Climate:

Pay attention to typical weather patterns in your area. Different materials have different levels of weather resistance, so find out how each roof type reacts to the elements and determine which options are best suited to your local climate.

Energy efficiency:

Though more expensive up-front, energy-efficient roofs can save you money long-term. The ability of your roof to reflect heat can also make or break your indoor comfort, so research each option’s thermal properties.

Slope:

Your roof must be able to drain water. Asphalt shingles are the most popular option, but only because most American residential roofs have a steep slope. If some of your roof’s slopes are low, use a specialized product that’s more leak-resistant when exposed to pooling water.

Weight:

The material’s weight can affect your project’s timeline and labor cost. If you choose a heavier material than the one currently covering your home, structural adjustments might be necessary to ensure your home can support the added weight.

Our Conclusion

Ultimately, the best roofing material depends on your priorities. Shingles offer affordability and ease of installation, while tiles boast superior durability and aesthetic appeal, often at a higher cost. Weighing your budget, desired lifespan, and stylistic preferences will guide you towards the perfect roof for your home.

Once you know which roof type you want, contact multiple local roofing contractors for free estimates and comparison. Enter your ZIP code in our tool below to jumpstart the quote process.

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FAQ About Shingle Roofs vs. Tile Roofs

Can you replace shingles with tiles?

Yes, you can replace shingles with tiles if you’re willing to undergo a more intensive and expensive installation process. The end result is a more durable and attractive roof. 

Is a tile roof better than a shingle roof?

Whether or not a tile roof is better than a shingle roof depends on your wants and needs. Tile roofs are significantly more expensive than shingle roofs, but they last almost five times as long and require less maintenance. Tile roofs are also more energy-efficient and more resistant to rot. 

What is the most efficient house roof?

The most energy-efficient roof type is a metal roof, which is a form of tile roofing. Metal roofs are highly reflective, which helps keep your home cooler and reduces the strain on your HVAC system. Metal roofs typically result in lower energy bills. 

Why do Americans use shingles and not tiles?

Americans use shingles more often than tiles due to their affordability and ease of installation. Shingles are also more suitable for the steeper roof pitches that are common in the U.S. While tiles are more durable, their cost and weight often make them a less attractive option.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.

The roof is the single most important part of a home’s exterior. It is what protects your home and belongings from the elements, while at the same time adding to its appearance and curb appeal. A well-maintained roof says a lot about a home and helps prevent many issues, such as water damage, mold, and mildew indoors.

Two of the most frequently used materials for roofs are tiles and shingles. Both provide an attractive, durable roof that will cover and protect your home. But they look and are made in very different ways. We outline the differences between the two below so that you can make a more informed decision about which one will be right for your home.

Appearance

Most people are familiar with the asphalt shingle roof. It is made of flexible shingles that are installed overlapping one another. Thicker shingles have been developed that add more dimension and structure to the roof and more closely mimic the effects of materials like slate. They come in a range of colors, and they may have some variation or texture or appear more flat depending on the exact brand and style you choose.

Tiles have much more versatility in design. Classic clay tiles are most commonly installed in the S shape, where the tiles curve in an S pattern and overlap one another for a repeated, rounded pattern. But clay, concrete, and metal tiles actually come in a very wide range of shapes, patterns, and colors. It is possible to find roofing tiles that have the classic S pattern as well as half-round tiles, tiles that mimic the look of slate shingles, ridged tiles, and a wide range of others. With a tile roof, it is possible to create a more unique or personalized look for the property rather than simply choosing a different color or slightly thicker shingle.

Installation

Installation varies between the shingle and tile roofs as well as the type of tile you choose. Asphalt shingles are fairly straightforward to install. Most have tabs that overlap one another and are nailed down and sealed. A felt underlayment is all that is necessary beneath them as long as the roof deck itself is in good condition.

Tiles, however, require some degree of roof reinforcement first. This is because of the increased weight involved. They also need an underlayment, but the process of installation is much slower and more involved. Some patterns and tiles are much faster, such as interlocking tiles that neatly snap into place, while traditional S, scallop, and ridge patterns must be cemented into place one at a time, which can take several days to complete depending on the size of the roof.

Costs

Shingles are much less expensive than tile both to purchase and install. All roofing is sold and installed by the square, which is 100 square feet. The average cost of a square of asphalt shingles is between $65 and $80. Installing the material costs around $50 a square. Additional costs include $1,000 for tearing off the old roof and $400 for felt and supplies. This makes the cost of a 1,500 square foot roof $3,125 to $3,350 on average.

The cost of a tile roof is significantly higher with the material costing between $120 and $250 a square. Tearing off the old roofing is the same at $1,000 while reinforcing the roof to hold the weight will cost between $1,000 and $10,000, and labor is between $465 and $665 a square. Additional materials run between $500 and $600. This makes the cost of a 1,500 square foot tile roof between $11,300 and $25,325.

Weight

Asphalt shingles are fairly lightweight and can be installed on nearly any type of roof. Tile, however, can be very heavy, depending on the material. Composite tiles are the lightest while metal and clay tiles weigh more. All tile roofs are heavier than a shingle roof, however, and require at least some degree of roof reinforcement, leading to some of the high costs involved. If your home is unable to support a heavy roof or you are unable to reinforce it, then a shingle roof is the better choice.

Climate

Asphalt roofs are common throughout the U.S. and have been proven to handle all types of climates. Tile roofs are most commonly installed in the southern parts of the country because traditional clay tiles may not be able to handle the freeze/thaw conditions. However, newer composite and metal tile roofs can be installed anywhere. If you live in an area with freeze/thaw cycles and want to invest in a tile roof, ask for a material that can handle the climate.

On the other hand, tile in very dry, hot climates may have a shortened lifespan due to the heat. Heat can also shorten the longevity of asphalt tiles, which is why it is always best to inquire as to which roofing material is best-suited to your climate.

Durability

In terms of durability, a well-maintained tile roof will outlast a shingle roof by decades. Depending on the material the tile is made of, it can last from 25 to 100 years if taken care of properly. Metal and composites tend to last the longest, but there are clay tile roofs that are over 100 years old as well.

Asphalt shingles last between 15 and 30 years, depending on the thickness, type, and style. Thicker, architectural shingles last longer than standard three-tab ones.

Maintenance

Maintenance of both roof types is fairly similar. Each should be inspected yearly for broken, cracked, or missing shingles or tiles. If moss is growing on the roof, it should be gently cleaned away. Never use a pressure washer on either type of roof. If your roof is made of clay tiles, avoid walking on it as this could cause the tiles to break. If a broken tile or shingle is found, replace it as soon as possible to avoid more widespread damage to the roof.

Environmental Concerns

Shingles are made from many materials but primarily have a base of asphalt, which is what makes them water-resistant. Asphalt is derived from petroleum, so these shingles cannot be considered sustainable.

However, some asphalt shingles have environmental benefits. These include white, heat-reflecting shingles that help keep the temperature of a home lower, thereby reducing energy costs.

Tiles may be made from a wider variety of materials, including natural clay. They also last longer and are therefore less likely to end up in a landfill. Many materials that go into tiles can also be recycled, which makes them a slightly more eco-friendly choice.

Resale Value

Any new roof adds value to your home. Because of the longevity of a tile roof, it may have more appeal to a new owner, but in general, any new roof is considered a good investment in a home.

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