The look of Spanish or Mission tile roofing is popular across the country. But the substantial weight of clay and concrete tiles - and the construction costs associated with their use - make them impractical for many properties. An alternative that is growing in popularity is metal tile facsimile or "tile panel" roofing.
This category of roofing consists of steel (or sometimes aluminum) panels that closely mimic the look of real tile. Tile panels satisfy the demand for tile-roof aesthetics while offering the well-documented benefits of metal roofing - including light weight, low maintenance, durability, fire resistance, wind and weather resistance, and more. The recent severe hurricane seasons have made tile panels increasingly popular in coastal regions, where their superior wind performance has been proven time and time again. |
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Energy savings has become another key selling point. Some tile panel products qualify as "cool roofs", meaning that the coatings used on the panels have high reflectivity. For every 5% of added reflectivity, a roof is approximately 4o F cooler in direct overhead summertime sunlight. A cooler roof makes for a cooler building, bringing energy savings that can be dramatic in hot climates. Cool metal roofing may also be eligible for federal tax credits and/or rebates offered through many local and state governments and utilities.
Metal tile panels weigh as little as 125 lb. per square (even less for aluminum). This is a fraction the weight of genuine tile. As a result, walls, framing and other substructure costs can be significantly reduced when you use metal tile panel roofing in new construction. For mid- to high-rise buildings, tile panel roofing also enhances safety by eliminating the hazards of tile blow-off that can occur during high wind conditions.
Existing properties with composition shingle roofs can be easily upgraded to the look of tile without weight concerns. In many cases, tile panels can be applied directly over the old roof with no need for tear-off. When a property with a flat roof is being refurbished, owners sometimes opt for metal tile panels to improve appearance and reduce or eliminate the maintenance and leakage problems associated with flat roofs. Pitched trusses are built over the existing roof, and the tile panels are applied over the new substructure.
Specialty applications are also popular. For example, the headaches associated with roof tile breakage in golf course developments are well known. Some homeowners' groups have mandated a switch to metal tile panels to eliminate the problem. Also, tile panels are sometimes used as decorative accents - e.g., as fascias or canopies over carports, building entrances, etc.
There are numerous tile panel products on the market. Their looks and performance can vary, so it is a good idea to comparison-shop. Here are some features to evaluate:
- Energy performance: Look for products that have earned the ENERGY STAR®. Products that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements can reduce cooling costs and help prevent greenhouse gas emissions because they adhere to strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.
- Wind and weather resistance: Wind ratings can vary from 90 mph up to 230+ mph. Find out the rating and how the system is fastened: Screw fasteners provide stronger adhesion than nails or adhesives. How are the panels installed? Panels applied vertically from eave to ridge provide greater wind and moisture resistance.
- Panel length: Some metal tile products are fabricated in small sections that equal the coverage of six or eight tiles. Other products are long-length, extra-wide sheets in varying lengths: A single panel may cover as much area as several dozen tiles. The greater the coverage, the better is the potential for a faster and more weather-tight installation.
- Colors and finishes: Ask about the paint system, its performance features and warranty. Does it meet ENERGY STAR reflectivity guidelines? What colors are available? Some products come not only in tile shades but also in blues, greens, and similar hues that simulate the look of much costlier glazed ceramic tiles.
- Materials: Is the panel itself offered in different materials? Aluminum may be best for waterfront sites where the air is very salty, while lower-cost steel is the material of choice for most other areas.
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