That’s a good point about the climate—sun here in Arizona just eats up anything that isn’t made to last. I’m actually trying to figure out if it’s better to go with a pricier brand that’s got a track record, or if some of the newer composite tiles are worth a shot. Has anyone had luck with those synthetic options in hot, dry places? I like the idea of less maintenance, but I’m not sure how they hold up compared to traditional clay or concrete.
Also, does anyone know if warranties really mean much when it comes to fading and cracking? My neighbor thought he was covered, but the fine print was pretty limiting. Just trying to avoid a headache down the road…
Yeah, the Arizona sun is brutal on roofs. I’ve got concrete tiles from a big-name brand (Boral, if you’re curious), and after about 12 years, they’re still holding up okay. There’s some fading, but nothing major yet. My neighbor went with a newer composite tile a few years back—he liked the lighter weight and lower maintenance pitch too. They do look good, but he mentioned they get hotter to the touch than clay or concrete, which surprised me. No big cracks yet, but it hasn’t been that long.
Warranties are tricky... I’ve read through a few and honestly, most of them don’t cover color fading or minor surface cracks unless it’s a structural thing. The exclusions are wild—like, if you clean your roof with the “wrong” soap, they might void it. I’d say if you go synthetic, double-check what’s actually covered versus just marketing fluff. If you can swing it, maybe stick with a brand that’s been around a while. At least then you know they’ll still be in business if something goes sideways.
Warranties are tricky... I’ve read through a few and honestly, most of them don’t cover color fading or minor surface cracks unless it’s a structural thing. The exclusions are wild—like, if you clean your roof with the “wrong” soap, they might void it.
That part about the “wrong” soap in the warranty cracks me up. It’s like they’re just waiting for any excuse not to pay out. I’ve got Eagle concrete tiles on my place (Phoenix area), and they’re about 15 years old. Still solid, but yeah, the color’s not what it used to be. I figure that’s just the price of living under this sun.
I’ve looked at those composite tiles too, but the heat thing worries me. My buddy has them and says his attic runs hotter now, which seems backwards since they’re supposed to be “modern.” Anyone else notice that? Also, has anyone actually had a warranty claim go through with these big brands? I always hear about the exclusions, but never about someone actually getting a new roof out of it. Just curious if it’s even worth factoring into the decision.
if you clean your roof with the “wrong” soap, they might void it.
That part gets me too—like, who’s out there with a magnifying glass checking your cleaning products? I’m in Tucson, and my clay tiles faded way faster than I thought. I tried to read the warranty, but honestly, it felt like deciphering ancient scrolls. Never met anyone who got a full replacement either. Maybe those warranties are just there for peace of mind... or marketing?
- Had a similar experience after a hail storm here in Oklahoma—insurance adjuster actually asked what I used to clean the tiles. Wasn’t expecting that.
- My concrete tiles faded too, but the warranty language was a maze. Lots of “exclusions”... especially for anything that might be considered “improper cleaning.”
- Never seen a full roof replacement approved under warranty either. Usually it’s just a few tiles, if anything.
- Honestly, feels like those warranties are written more to protect the company than the homeowner. Maybe some folks have better luck, but I wouldn’t count on it.
