Shingle Roof vs Tile Roof

Shingle Roof vs Tile Roof: Which is Best for Your Janesville WI Home?

Choosing a new roof for your home is a really big deal. It’s like picking the right hat for your house – one that protects it from all sorts of weather, makes it look good, and lasts a long time. Here at Rooster Roofing, we get asked all the time about the differences between shingle roofs and tile roofs, especially by homeowners right here in Janesville, WI, and our neighbours in places like Edgerton, Beloit WI, Evansville WI, Brodhead, Milton, Monroe, Madison, Delavan, and Lake Geneva.

Both shingles and tiles are super popular options, but they’re quite different in how they look, how long they last, and how much they cost. As your friendly local roofing experts, we’re here to break it down for you in simple terms, so you can make the best, most informed decision for your home. Let’s chat about the main differences!

At Rooster Roofing, we handle all sorts of roofing needs, from new roof installations and replacements to repairs and maintenance for both residential roofing and commercial roofing projects. We also do gutter installation and siding installation. Our goal is to help you find the perfect roofing material that fits your budget, your home’s style, and can handle whatever the Wisconsin weather throws its way!

What Exactly Are Shingle Roofs?

Imagine your roof covered in lots of flat, rectangular pieces that overlap each other. That’s basically a shingle roof! These small pieces are called shingles.

Most of the shingle roofs you see, especially up north and across the country, are made from asphalt. Asphalt shingles are super popular because they’re generally the most affordable option out there.

Asphalt shingles come in different styles. The simplest kind is called a ‘three-tab’ shingle. There are also ‘architectural’ or ‘laminate’ shingles, which are thicker and layered, giving your roof a more textured, dimensional look. Sometimes, these shingles might also have fiberglass or other materials mixed in for extra strength or a nicer look.

When our team at Rooster Roofing installs asphalt shingles, we lay them down in overlapping rows, nailing them into the roof deck. We also put a layer called underlayment underneath. Think of the underlayment as an extra shield right on top of the roof deck, giving you more protection from rain, snow, and wind.

The Upsides and Downsides of Shingle Roofs

Shingles have some great points, which is why you see them on so many homes around Janesville and other places like Madison and Milwaukee.

Pros of Shingle Roofs:

• Affordable Upfront Cost: This is a big one! Asphalt shingles are generally the least expensive roofing material for the initial installation. If you’re working with a tighter budget right now, shingles are often the go-to choice.
• Easy & Fast Installation: Shingles are lighter than tiles and easier to work with. This means the installation process is usually quicker, sometimes even done in a single day for a typical home. Our skilled crew at Rooster Roofing can get your new shingle roof on efficiently!
• Lots of Style & Color Options: Shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles. Whether you want a classic look or something a bit more modern for your home in Evansville, WI, you can probably find an asphalt shingle to match. They can even mimic the look of other materials like wood or slate.
• Repairs Can Be Easier (Often): If a shingle gets damaged, it can sometimes be simpler and cheaper to replace just that section compared to other materials.

Cons of Shingle Roofs:

• Shorter Lifespan: This is the main drawback. Even the best asphalt shingles usually only last between 15 to 30 years, depending on the type (three-tab vs. architectural) and, importantly, the local climate. Our Midwest weather, with its heat, cold, wind, and hail, can definitely impact how long shingles last. Some homeowners in the Midwest find they need to reroof a shingle roof after only 8-10 years.
• Vulnerable to Harsh Weather: Strong winds can lift and damage shingles. Hail can cause cracks and granule loss. Extreme temperature changes can make them brittle and lose their color over time. The sun’s UV rays also degrade them. This is especially a factor in climates with intense sun or frequent storms, like those we experience occasionally around Lake Geneva or Delavan.
• Less Durable Overall: Compared to tiles, shingles are just less tough. They wear out over time, losing granules and becoming less effective. This means you’ll likely need roof replacement much sooner than with a tile roof.
• Lower Energy Efficiency: Shingles lie flat against the roof deck, without much space for airflow underneath. This can trap heat in your attic, potentially leading to higher energy bills to keep your home cool.
• More Frequent Maintenance/Repairs: Because they are less durable and have a shorter lifespan, you’ll likely need more repairs and maintenance over the years with a shingle roof. The underlayment beneath shingles also has a limited lifespan and may need replacing sooner than the roof itself.

What About Tile Roofs?

Tile roofs look different! They often have a more distinctive shape and texture.

Tile roofs are typically made from natural materials like clay or concrete. You can also find tiles made from slate or even metal.

• Clay tiles: These have a classic, often Mediterranean or Spanish look. They’re naturally beautiful and very durable.
• Concrete tiles: These are often more affordable than clay tiles because they’re easier to make. They offer similar strength and longevity to clay. They come in a huge variety of colors and styles and can even look like wood shake or slate.
• Slate tiles: These are split from natural stone and are incredibly beautiful and durable. They are known for having the longest lifespan, potentially lasting over 100 years. However, they are also the most expensive tile option.

Like shingles, tiles are installed in overlapping rows. However, the installation can be a bit more involved, sometimes requiring tiles to be cemented or attached in specific ways. At Rooster Roofing, we ensure every tile roof we install meets the highest standards for our area.

The Upsides and Downsides of Tile Roofs

Tile roofs have a lot going for them, which is why you see them on many beautiful homes.

Pros of Tile Roofs:

• Incredible Durability & Long Lifespan: This is a major advantage. Tile roofs are tough! They can withstand high winds, hail, and fire better than shingles. They last significantly longer – typically 50 years or more, with some clay or slate roofs lasting 100 years or even longer with proper maintenance. Think about it: you might only need one tile roof in your lifetime!
• Excellent in Tough Weather: Tile roofs can resist some of the worst weather conditions. While some clay tiles might have issues with repeated freezing and thawing, concrete and newer composite tiles perform well in various climates, including those with freeze-thaw cycles like here in Wisconsin. Their weight helps them stay put in high winds.
• Great Energy Efficiency: Tile roofs are installed with an air space underneath. This allows air to circulate, which helps keep your attic cooler in the summer. Choosing lighter colors can boost this even more by reflecting sunlight. This can mean lower energy bills for your home in Beloit WI or Monroe.
• Beautiful Aesthetics & Versatility: Tile roofs offer a unique and often luxurious look. They come in many profiles and colors, fitting different architectural styles, from a Mediterranean villa look in Lake Geneva to a classic Midwestern home in Brodhead. They add significant curb appeal.
• Made from Natural, Recyclable Materials: Many concrete and clay tiles are made from natural products and can be recycled at the end of their very long life.
• High Return on Investment (ROI): While the upfront cost is higher, the longevity, durability, and aesthetic appeal of a tile roof mean it often adds more value to your home when it comes time to sell compared to a shingle roof.
• Potential Insurance Savings: Because tile roofs are more durable and resistant to damage from storms and hail, some insurance companies may offer lower premiums or discounts to homeowners who choose tile. It’s definitely worth checking with your insurance agent!

Cons of Tile Roofs:

• Higher Upfront Cost: Tile roofs are significantly more expensive to buy and install than asphalt shingles. The cost depends a lot on the material (concrete being less expensive than slate, for example). This initial investment is the main reason why not everyone chooses tile.
• Installation is More Complex & Takes Longer: Tile roofs are heavier, which might mean your roof structure needs to be checked to ensure it can support the added weight. The installation process itself is often more time-consuming than installing shingles. It definitely requires a professional roofing expert like Rooster Roofing.
• Can Be Difficult to Walk On: Certain types of tiles can be fragile and break if you step on them incorrectly. This can make repairs or maintenance (like cleaning gutters or servicing an HVAC unit) more challenging or require extra care from professionals.
• Repairs Can Be More Expensive: While tile roofs need fewer repairs over their lifespan, when they do need fixing, it can cost more than a shingle repair. This is partly because the materials cost more and the repair process for some tiles (like those set with foam) might require a second visit to allow materials to cure.

Shingle vs. Tile: A Quick Comparison

Let’s put it side-by-side to make it clearer:

Feature	Shingle Roofs	Tile Roofs
Upfront Cost	Generally Lower	Significantly Higher
Lifespan	15-30 years (can be shorter in harsh climates)	50-100+ years (with maintenance)
Durability	Less durable, more prone to weather damage	Very durable, resistant to wind, hail, fire
Maintenance	May require more frequent repairs	Requires less frequent repairs
Installation	Quicker, easier, lighter weight	More complex, takes longer, heavier weight
Energy Efficiency	Less efficient (less airflow)	More efficient (airflow underneath)
Aesthetics	Wide variety, but can look flat	Distinctive look, wide variety of styles/textures
Environmental	Uses petroleum, often ends up in landfill	Natural materials, long lifespan, often recyclable
Weight	Lighter	Heavier, may require structural checks

Making the Right Choice for Your Janesville Home

So, which roof is better? As you can see, there’s no single answer. The best choice for your home in Janesville, WI, or nearby areas like Milton or Edgerton, depends on what’s most important to you.

• If your budget is the top priority right now: A new asphalt shingle roof is likely the most affordable option upfront. Just be prepared for the possibility of needing roof repair or even full replacement sooner down the line, especially with the kind of weather we get here in the Midwest.
• If long-term value and durability are key: A tile roof, while a bigger investment initially, will likely save you money over many years due to its long lifespan and lower maintenance needs. It’s a choice that means you probably won’t have to think about roof replacement again for decades.
• Consider your home’s style: Do you love the look of tile? Do you want something that stands out and adds significant curb appeal? Tile offers unique profiles and colors that can transform the look of your home. Shingles offer versatility but a generally less distinctive look.
• Think about the Midwest Weather: Our region sees a mix of everything – heat in the summer, cold and snow in the winter, and sometimes severe storms with wind and hail. Both materials can handle various climates, but tile’s inherent durability makes it especially resistant to impacts like hail. The freeze-thaw cycles common in Wisconsin should also be considered when choosing specific tile materials.
• Factor in Weight and Installation: If your current roof structure is older or not built to handle a lot of weight, asphalt shingles might be a simpler option unless you plan for structural upgrades. Tile installation is definitely a job for experienced professionals.

No matter which material you lean towards, getting it installed correctly is crucial. That’s where Rooster Roofing comes in! Our expert team has years of experience working on roofs throughout Janesville, WI, and all the surrounding communities like Monroe, Madison, and Delavan.

We can assess your current roof, discuss your needs and budget, show you samples of different materials and colors (including various concrete tile options like high barrel, medium barrel, or flat styles that can mimic other materials), and help you understand all the factors involved. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons as they apply specifically to your home and the local climate.

Whether you need a full roof replacement, a complex tile roof installation, routine roof maintenance, or emergency roof repair after a storm, Rooster Roofing has you covered. We’re committed to using quality materials and providing top-notch workmanship so you can feel confident that the roof over your head is strong and reliable for years to come.

Don’t choose your roof covering lightly. It’s protecting your whole home and everyone inside! Make the best, informed decision by talking to a trusted local roofing contractor.

Ready to explore your options for a new roof in Janesville, WI, or the greater Rock and Dane County areas?

Contact Rooster Roofing today for a free consultation and estimate! We’re here to help you find the perfect roof to protect your home and look great doing it. Give us a call or visit our website to get started!