Tile Roofing Explained
Tile roofing uses kiln-fired clay or high-density concrete pressed into curved or flat shapes that overlap like scales. Each tile weighs 3–5 kg, giving the roof mass that shrugs off hail, wind, and wild temperature swings. Clay tiles carry natural iron colors that never fade; concrete tiles accept acrylic color coats or integral pigment for bolder palettes.
Modern profiles fall into three families. Barrel tiles (S-tile or Mission) form bold curves that channel water down Spanish or Mediterranean slopes. Flat interlocking tiles sit tightly together for a low-profile look that mimics slate. Shake-style tiles stamp wood grain into concrete for a rustic finish without the fire risk of cedar. All styles hang on corrosion-proof battens or screw directly to a solid deck, then clip at the nose to stop wind lift.
Life span reaches 50 to 75 years when installers flash valleys with metal and set breathable underlayment. Tiles suit pitches 4 in 12 and steeper so rainwater clears quickly. Cool-roof colors and natural air space under each tile cut attic heat gain by up to 20 percent in summer. Class A fire rating is standard, making tile popular in wildfire zones. Annual work is light: clear leaves from valleys, replace any cracked pieces, and inspect ridge mortar every ten years. Retired tiles recycle as road base or landscape mulch, sending almost zero waste to landfill.
Clay and Concrete Tile Advantages
Longevity, Safety, Savings, and Style in Every Curve.
Long Life Expectancy
Fired clay and dense concrete resist UV, rot, and pests, giving roofs five decades of worry-free service on the original deck.
Storm And Fire Strength
Heavy tiles stay put in 200 km h wind tests, shrug off 50 mm hail, and carry a built-in Class A fire rating for maximum code safety.
Energy-Saving Air Gap
Space under each tile vents hot air away, lowering attic temperature and trimming summer cooling costs across the roof’s life.
Timeless Curb Appeal
Rich curves, deep shadows, and colorfast finishes raise property value and complement Spanish, Mission, and modern design.
Low Maintenance Curve
Individual tiles pop out for quick swap, and cement ridge work needs only a ten-year check, keeping upkeep simple and predictable.
Full Material Reuse
Retired tiles crush into road base or mulch, so projects generate minimal landfill waste and earn green building credits.
Tile Styles & How We Lay Them
Pick the Profile and Install Path That Fits Your Roof.
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Traditional Clay Barrel Tile
Signature S-curve delivers classic Mediterranean look.
Install notes: Treated pine battens set at 325mm spacing; two stainless screws per tile in wind zones; copper valley flashing for longest life. -
White EPDM
Low silhouette mimics slate but weighs 40 percent less.
Install notes: Solid plywood deck with breathable synthetic underlayment; hidden nose clips every two courses; top-ridge vent for attic airflow. -
Concrete Shake-Style Tile
hick butt and wood grain surface imitate cedar without fire worry.
Install notes: Battens over secondary water shield; double nail through pre-punched holes; hip and ridge finished with mortar-set trim pieces. -
Lightweight Concrete Flat Tile
Engineered mix cuts weight by 25 percent for retrofits on older rafters.
Install notes: Solid deck only; ring-shank nails and nose clips; verify truss spacing meets load chart before approval. -
Glazed or Color-Coated Clay Tile
Glossy surface sheds algae and holds vivid hues.
Install notes: Stainless screws to battens; foam closure at eaves; rinse with low pressure wash every two years to keep gloss bright.
Clay & Concrete Tile Decision Lens
Is Tile Right for You?
Choose Tile When You Need:
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A design life of fifty years or more with minimal upkeep.
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Class A fire rating in wildfire-risk areas.
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Bold Mediterranean or slate styling that raises property value.
Consider Other Systems if:
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Rafters cannot accept added weight and retrofit reinforcement is not in budget.
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Roof pitch is below 4 in 12 where single-ply membranes perform better.
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Foot traffic will be frequent; tiles crack under tools and heavy loads.
The Cittrix Difference
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Fast, Convenient Estimates
Call or submit a form and we’ll schedule a free inspection of your roof for the same or next business day. There’s no need for you to disrupt your busy schedule - you don’t even have to be at home.
Instead of sending a confusing estimate or sitting in your living room for hours with a high-pressure sales pitch, we’ll send you a clear video explanation of what’s going on with your roof and our recommendations that you can watch on your own time.
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Quick Turnaround and Guaranteed Timelines
Roof installation is scheduled and completed within ten days of approval—no delays, no surprises, just reliable scheduling you can count on.
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Flexible Financing Options
We offer simple, clear-cut payment options, including 0% financing with zero money down, making it easy to get the high-quality roof your family needs.
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Trusted Team of Professionals
We’re proud to work closely with leading manufacturers, ensuring every roof we install is the highest quality. Our crews are experienced, respectful, and held to the highest standards in the industry—because your home deserves the best.
- Malarkey Emerald Premium Certified Contractor
- Proud Member of the Roofing and Solar Reform Alliance
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- HAAG Certified Roof Inspector
- 5-Star Google Rating
- 5-Star Thumbtack Professional
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Lifetime Roof Warranties
We stand behind our work with robust warranties that cover labor and materials, offering long-term protection and peace of mind.
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Speedy Cleanup and Safety Precautions
Our teams take extra care to minimize disruption and keep your family and pets safe during every step of the process.
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Locally Owned, Family-Run Business
Based in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, and serving neighbors throughout Lake County and the Chicago suburbs, we’re proud to serve our local community with integrity, hustle, transparency, and heart.
We’ll do everything in our power to ensure you’re informed and confident through every step of the process and will always make recommendations based on what’s best for you. We’re humbled by the positive feedback we’ve received from thousands of happy customers and look forward to serving you and your family.


