However concrete tiles are lighter in weight and less costly to install than natural slate tiles.
Difference between tile and slate roof.
Slate is a fine grained metamorphic rock that can be split easily into thin layers.
It s mainly grey in colour with a wide variety of textures colour varieties and irregular patterns.
Tile roofing can stay up perfect for as long as 50 years.
Tiles are made from a variety of hard wearing materials usually fired clay and concrete.
Concrete tiles are available in plain or interlocking fittings and are usually bigger than clay which makes them easier to install however for roofing with skylights or lots of chimneys.
Like natural slate roofing concrete tiles are heavy which means if you need a new roof you may need to have your building structurally inspected prior to installation.
The most crucial difference is that natural roofing slate is exactly that a natural product whilst tiles whether concrete or clay are manufactured.
Slate happens to be among the most durable of all the roofing materials not all slate is the same some are made from quarries in vermont some from pennsylvania and other states but the best of it will last longer that the fasteners that hold it in place.
Whether you choose concrete or clay tiles the tiles will have a life expectancy of 50 years and will be of equal durability and resistance.
Slate is a natural stone tiles are manufactured.
Most commonly available in concrete and clay roofing tiles come in a much wider variety of designs and colours than natural roofing slates.
However concrete tiles are considered more weatherproof and able to withstand severe weather conditions.
Therefore for those looking for an authentic rustic look slate tiles may well be the more appealing choice.