Composite tiles might take hail better, but I’ve seen some brands get brittle after a few years in the sun out here.
That’s a fair point. I was on the fence for a while because of the sun exposure—our summers are brutal and I’ve seen plastic stuff crack way too soon. I did double-check the wind rating though, and it’s supposed to be comparable to concrete, at least on paper. Haven’t heard any rattling yet, even during last week’s storm, but I’m definitely keeping an ear out. It’s always a bit of a gamble with new materials, but fingers crossed it holds up.
I totally get the worry about the sun—out here, anything plastic or composite seems to age in dog years. But honestly, my wallet just couldn’t handle another round of concrete tile repairs. I went with composite mostly for the price and lighter weight. So far, no issues, even after that windstorm last week. If they last even half as long as promised, I’ll call it a win... but ask me again in five years!
So far, no issues, even after that windstorm last week. If they last even half as long as promised, I’ll call it a win...
It’s good to hear the composite held up through that storm—wind uplift is where some of these newer materials get put to the test. I get the hesitation about UV exposure, especially in areas with brutal sun. Manufacturers have made strides with coatings and stabilizers, but time will tell. From what I’ve seen, the lighter weight can really help with structural longevity, too. You’re right, if you can avoid another round of heavy repairs, that’s a big plus. Curious to see how they look in a few seasons.
From what I’ve seen, the lighter weight can really help with structural longevity, too.
That’s been my experience as well—less stress on the trusses, especially on older buildings. I was skeptical about the color fading, but after two summers here in Texas, it’s holding up better than I expected. Still, I’m keeping an eye out for any warping or curling down the line.
I hear you on the color fading concerns. That was my biggest hesitation, too—especially with the brutal sun we get here. I went with a slate gray composite, figuring it’d show less fading, and honestly, after three summers, it still looks pretty sharp. I do see a little bit of dulling if I’m really looking for it, but nothing like what happened with my old asphalt shingles.
The lighter weight is a game-changer for older houses. My place was built in the late 60s, and the inspector actually commented that the trusses looked happier (his words, not mine) once we swapped out the heavy concrete tiles. I was worried about wind, but so far, no issues—even after that nasty storm last spring. The installer used extra fasteners just in case, which probably helped.
Warping and curling are on my radar, too. I’ve seen a neighbor’s roof start to curl at the edges, but they went with a cheaper brand. I guess not all composites are created equal... I paid a bit more for one with a longer warranty, hoping it’ll pay off in the long run.
Maintenance has been a breeze so far. I used to have to replace cracked tiles every year, but now it’s just the occasional leaf cleanup. Only thing I miss is the sound of rain on the old tiles—these are a lot quieter, which is nice for sleeping, but kind of boring during a storm.
All in all, I’d say it’s been worth it, but I’m still keeping an eye out for surprises. Roofs have a way of humbling you when you least expect it.