“Asphalt shingles are still the workhorse for a reason.”
I get that. I’ve got asphalt on my place in Minnesota, and honestly, it’s just less hassle. My neighbor tried concrete tiles a few years back—looked great at first, but after two winters, he had a bunch of cracked tiles from ice buildup. Maybe there’s some special tile or install trick we’re missing? Or is it just not worth the gamble up here?
“after two winters, he had a bunch of cracked tiles from ice buildup.”
- Concrete tile can work up north, but it’s tricky. Needs a steep pitch and really solid underlayment.
- Ice dams are brutal on tile—if you don’t have great attic insulation and ventilation, forget it.
- Some folks use clay or composite tiles rated for freeze/thaw, but they’re pricey and still not foolproof.
- Honestly, unless you’re set on the look, asphalt or metal just holds up better in Minnesota winters. Less drama, less repair.
That cracked tile story doesn’t surprise me. I’ve seen a lot of folks try to make concrete or clay work up here, but unless every detail is dialed in—pitch, underlayment, insulation, you name it—winter just finds a way in. Ice dams are relentless. Metal or asphalt might not have the same curb appeal, but they’re a lot less hassle when it comes to freeze/thaw cycles. If you’re set on tile, just be ready for extra upkeep and costs. It’s doable, but not easy.
Metal or asphalt might not have the same curb appeal, but they’re a lot less hassle when it comes to freeze/thaw cycles.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually seen a few tile roofs hold up okay here—though every one had a super steep pitch and some serious waterproofing underneath. The folks who skipped heated gutters or proper flashing always wound up with trouble. It’s not impossible, but you really can’t cut corners. Personally, I went with metal after seeing my neighbor’s tile crack two winters in a row. The look isn’t quite the same, but I sleep better during ice storms.
Yeah, steep pitch and solid waterproofing make a huge difference. I’ve seen tile roofs fail fast when water gets under a cracked piece and freezes—especially if the flashing isn’t perfect. Metal’s not as pretty, but it’s way less stressful in deep winter.