Tile roofing has a deep, rich history in Florida. While the core components of tile roofing have remained the same across the centuries, modern tile roofing comes with more options than ever. This gives homeowners almost unlimited customization options, but it can also be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with all the types of tile roofs.
That’s what we’re here for. We’re PITCH Roofing, and as your trusted local roofers, it’s our job to answer all your questions about roofing options in Florida. Stick with us as we walk you through all the types of tile roofs available to you in the Sunshine State!
Types of Tile Roofs in Florida
When it comes to the types of tile roof materials, there are really only two options: concrete and clay. While each of these options can give you a high-quality tile roof, there are a lot of differences both in their performance and cost. To help you plan the best tile roof replacement for your home, let’s take an in-depth look at these materials!
Concrete Tiles
If you’re looking for an affordable kind of tile roof, concrete tiles are perfect. In general, concrete roofing tiles cost about $15 per square foot. This is still much more expensive than asphalt shingles, of course, but you’re also paying for quality.
Concrete tiles have great wind resistance, with most types of concrete tiles being able to withstand winds up to 150 mph. They’re also Class A fire resistant and stand up well against water damage, which makes them hardy and durable protection for your home.
These roofing tiles also last much longer than asphalt shingles. On average, a concrete tile roof will last for about 50 years in Florida — twice as long as an asphalt shingle roof! And unlike a shingle roof, concrete tiles don’t need much in the way of maintenance and repairs.
If there is one downside, it’s the color of concrete tiles. While these tiles last a long time, their color doesn’t hold up as well. Over time, the color lightens as the sun bleaches the tile. In these circumstances, homeowners can invest in re-painting services to restore the tiles’ original color.
Clay Tiles
Clay roofing tiles are a high-end roofing material, which comes with both a high cost and outstanding performance. For this type of tile roof, you can expect to pay around $20 per square foot. That is a premium cost, but what kind of product are you getting for that investment?]
Well, clay tile roofs have all the great protective features of concrete tiles and then some. That means 150 mph wind resistance, Class A fire resistance, and great water resistance. They also aren’t painted, unlike concrete tiles, which means the sun won’t bleach them.
These are all great features of clay tile roofs, but none of them are the main selling point. The biggest reason that homeowners pick clay tiles is for their unmatched longevity. Clay tile roofs last the longest of any roofing material, with some clay tile roofs staying in place for a century or more with proper maintenance and repairs. There may not be such a thing as a “forever roof,” but clay tiles are certainly close!
To top it all off, clay roofing tiles come in a variety of colors. Whether you like the classic clay red, neutral earth tones, or something zanier, you can bet that your perfect tile roof is out there.
Clay vs. Concrete Tile Roofs for Florida
Compare the two premium tile materials for durability, cost, and style
| Feature | Clay Tile Roofs | Concrete Tile Roofs |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$20 per sq. ft. A high-end, premium investment. | ~$15 per sq. ft. More affordable while still offering quality. |
| Lifespan & Durability | 100+ Years The longest-lasting roofing material. “Forever roof” longevity with proper care. | ~50 Years Lasts twice as long as an asphalt shingle roof. Low maintenance needs. |
| Performance | 150 mph Wind Resistance Color is integral to the tile, so it won’t bleach in the sun. | 150 mph Wind Resistance Color may lighten from sun exposure and can be repainted. |
| Best For | Homeowners seeking a century-long legacy investment, ultimate curb appeal with various color options, and the highest quality material. | Homeowners wanting the durable look and feel of tile at a more accessible price point, with great performance for Florida’s climate. |
Styles of Tile Roofs in Florida
We’ve covered the different types of tile roofing materials, but there are also many options when it comes to the cut and style of your roofing tiles. To help you pick the best option for your new roof, let’s look at these different types of tile roofs one by one!
- S-Shaped (Spanish) Tiles: These tiles are famous for their shape, which helps with water shedding and makes them perfect for Florida’s rainy season. They also have a distinctly Florida aesthetic and have been in the Sunshine State since the earliest Spanish colonialists arrived.
- Barrel (Mission) Tiles: Barrel tiles have a distinctive cylindrical shape, like a barrel cut in half. This improves ventilation on your roof and helps keep everything cooler, which in turn can lower your monthly energy bill.
- French Tiles: French tiles have two flutes that run down the center of the tile, making water drainage easy. With their textured appearance, these tiles are great for adding personality and visual interest to your roof.
- Flat Tiles: Like the name implies, these tiles are flat, which makes them look more like shingles than other types of tile roofs. These create a sleek, modern look that is very popular for contemporary-style homes in Florida.
- Pantile Tiles: With a highly curved profile, pantile tiles create a wave-like pattern similar to S-shaped tiles but with more pronounced curves. This creates a dynamic pattern across your roof that is a popular combination with European architecture.
As you can see, there are more than a few options when it comes to tile roofing. But whatever type of tile roof you prefer, the first step in getting your new roof is always collecting estimates.
Florida Tile Roof Style Guide
Choose the perfect profile to match your home’s architecture
| Tile Style | Key Characteristics | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| S-Shaped (Spanish) Tiles | Excellent Water Shedding Classic Florida Aesthetic Historic shape used since Spanish colonial times. | Traditional Florida homes, especially those seeking an authentic, historic look. |
| Barrel (Mission) Tiles | Cylindrical Shape Improved Ventilation The curved profile helps keep the roof deck cooler. | Homeowners focused on energy efficiency and a distinctive Mediterranean or Spanish Colonial style. |
| French Tiles | Textured Appearance Two Flutes for Drainage Adds significant visual interest and personality. | Adding character and a unique, elegant profile to the roof. |
| Flat Tiles | Sleek, Modern Look Shingle-like Appearance Creates clean, uniform lines. | Contemporary-style Florida homes seeking a modern aesthetic. |
| Pantile Tiles | Highly Curved Profile Wave-like Pattern Creates a dynamic, pronounced pattern. | Homes with European architectural influences desiring a bold roof statement. |
Get Your Free Tile Roofing Estimate
With roofing, you need to know two things: that you have experienced roofers and that you’re getting a good price. Collecting estimates is the best way to verify both of those things. Detailed estimates show you that you’re dealing with real professionals, and by comparing costs you can make sure you’re getting a reasonable price for your new tile roof.
At PITCH, we make it easy to get your free roofing estimate. Just call us at 727-677-4824 or schedule your estimate online! We even offer online-only estimates if you want to skip the in-person roof inspection. No matter which way you want your estimate, we’ll make sure to deliver on quality and customer service while taking away those pesky roofing headaches!
If any of these types of tile roofs appealed to you, reach out to us for a quote. We can even prepare multiple quotes based on the different options you’re considering! As veteran Florida roofers, there’s no limit to how far we’ll go for our customers.
Pro Tips for Choosing Your Florida Tile Roof
1. Calculate the Century-Long Value of Clay
While clay tile costs more upfront (~$20/sq ft vs. concrete’s ~$15/sq ft), frame it as a 100+ year investment. The cost per year over its immense lifespan is remarkably low. Compare this to replacing other materials multiple times over the same period. For a legacy property, clay isn’t just a roof—it’s a permanent part of the home’s structure and value.
2. Let Your Home’s Architecture Lead the Style Choice
Your home’s design is the best guide for selecting a tile profile.
Choose S-Shaped or Barrel Tiles for: Traditional Spanish, Mediterranean, Mission, or Colonial-style Florida homes. This achieves an authentic, integrated look.
Choose Flat Tiles for: Modern, contemporary, or minimalist homes where clean lines are key.
Choose French or Pantile for: European-inspired architecture (French Country, Italianate) or when you want the roof to be a bold design feature.
3. Factor in Long-Term Aesthetics with Concrete
If you choose concrete tile for its value, be proactive about color. Since the page notes color can lighten over time, discuss this with your contractor upfront. Ask about:
• The specific paint/color process used by the manufacturer.
• The expected timeline for potential fading in Florida’s sun.
• The cost and process for professional repainting services down the line.
Planning for this ensures your beautiful roof stays beautiful for its full 50-year lifespan.
Tile Roofing FAQs for Florida Homeowners
- Spanish/Mediterranean/Mission Homes: Match with S-Shaped (Spanish) or Barrel (Mission) tiles.
- Modern/Contemporary Homes: The clean lines of Flat tiles are ideal.
- European-Inspired Homes: Consider French or Pantile styles for authentic character.
Heather Ware is an In-House Roofing Specialist at PITCH Roofing. Working daily alongside our internal roofing teams, she translates complex Florida building codes and roofing techniques into clear, actionable advice for homeowners. With 4 years of experience in the Florida roofing industry, her goal is to ensure property owners have the exact facts they need to protect their investments.
