Which Type of Roof Tile is the Most Weather Resistant?

Come rain or shine, your roof is the first line of defence for your home. The whole reason why it doesn’t pour in with rain on a thundering Thursday night, and doesn’t become a sweat box in the UK’s unpredictable summer. But some types of roof tiles are more weather-resistant than others, which makes the already difficult task of choosing your roof tiles a much harder task.

In this blog, we’ll help guide you through the world of weather-resistant roof tiles, so you can make your decision a bit easier.

Key Factors in Weather Resistance: 

First things first, let’s go through what it is that makes a roof tile truly weather-resistant:

Wind Resistance 

We are definitely no strangers to strong, gusty winds that really sweep you off your feet in the UK, which means your roof needs to be able to stay put during high winds and resist cracking or chipping. Can you imagine the danger that would cause on your walk to your local shop in the morning, flying debris of roof tiles just flying around, ready to hit you like a moving target? This is why in the UK a tiled roof needs to be designed to withstand winds of at least 85mph, and potentially 120mph depending on location.

Extreme Climate Durability

Every roof tile needs to be able to withstand anything that Mother Nature brings. This includes the scorching sun, below freezing temperatures or non-stop rain and hail. It’s not just about withstanding these conditions, it’s about maintaining their appearance and integrity over long periods of time. No one wants a roof where tiles are sliding off and rotting away, so making sure you pick materials that will last is pivotal. 

Top 3 Roof Tiles:

Now you know what sort of weather your roof tiles will face in their lifetime, it’s important to know the most common types of roof tiles and how they stand up to the weather.

Concrete Roof Tiles 

Concrete roof tiles are one of the most popular roof tiles across the UK, making up 60% of all pitched roofs, and there’s a good reason behind it. They offer excellent durability at a lower price point than other roof materials like clay. They weigh a lot, which makes them resistant to wind uplift and can withstand freeze-thaw cycles too; however, on the rain front, they are more prone to moisture absorption than other options.

Clay Roof Tiles 

Clay tiles are a popular roofing choice known for their exceptional durability, with many roofs lasting for over a century. While concrete tiles are generally more common, many homeowners still prefer clay tiles when replacing a roof or building a new home. Their natural frost resistance makes them ideal for the UK’s wet climate, and they offer excellent protection against rain, wind, and UV rays.

Slate Roof Tiles 

Tapco slate roofs are a timeless and premium choice for UK homes, offering unmatched durability and a beautiful finish. With slate being non-porous, it won’t absorb water and provides exceptional resistance to frost damage, perfect for the UK’s unpredictable weather. With a lifespan that can stretch over centuries, a Tapco slate roof is not just a practical investment, but a stunning, long-lasting feature that adds character and value to any property. With a 40-year guarantee for your peace of mind, with Nu-Look Roof, there’s really no better tiles for water resistance.

So, which tile is most weather-resistant? 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, unfortunately. Each type of roof tile has its own strengths, and the best choice really depends on several factors, like your location, whether your property is near the coast, if you live in an area known for harsh weather (cough Glasgow!), or even the structure and design of your existing roof.

When it comes to standing up to the UK’s unpredictable weather, all three types of roof tiles, concrete, clay, and slate, offer their own advantages. Concrete tiles are affordable and tough, making them a solid all-rounder. Clay tiles bring natural beauty and excellent resistance to frost, rain, and UV rays, perfect for long-lasting protection. However, if maximum weather resistance is what you’re after, Tapco slate tiles come out on top. 

If you’re looking for a roof that can handle anything the UK weather throws at it, from heavy rain to coastal winds, our team at Nu-Look Roof can help. We supply and install a wide range of roof tiles, including highly durable Tapco slate tiles, so you can rest assured knowing your home is protected year-round. Get in touch today for a free quote or expert advice on choosing the best type of roof tile for your home.