The structure
Concrete tile weighs about 700–950 lb per square, against 275–425 lb for asphalt shingles. Framing may need an engineer’s check or reinforcement.
Puget Sound material guide
Tile roof cost
Tile is a substantial, long-lived choice where the home structure and design are a match.
Price my roof
Typical project range
$38,800–$54,600
for a 2,450 sq ft roof in Seattle
Expected lifespan 40–50 years
Expected lifespan 40–50 years
At a glance
Is tile right for you?
Why homeowners choose it
- Durable architectural finish
- Long life
- Fire-resistant material
Worth considering
- Heavy roof system
- Structure must be evaluated
Cost drivers
What moves the price.
Why two tile roofs of the same size can be priced differently.
Permits and review
Heavier roofing is where cities step in: Issaquah requires a permit for tile roofs, and Renton plan review for heavier roofing.
City permit rulesCareful handling
Tiles are lifted, cut and fixed individually and can crack underfoot, so installation and later repairs take time.
Tile questions
Good to know before you choose.
Can my house carry a tile roof?
Only an evaluation can say. A house built for shingles carries a far lighter roof, so moving to tile usually means checking — and sometimes strengthening — the framing first.
Can tile go over my existing roof?
No new roof may be laid over existing tile, and the weight of tile over an old layer is rarely a good idea. Expect a full tear-off.
Do tile roofs need maintenance?
Less than cedar, but not none: replace cracked or slipped tiles, keep valleys and gutters clear, and have the underlayment beneath the tiles checked as the roof ages.
Compare your options