Barrel Tile Roof (Spanish & Mission Styles)
Here’s our guide about barrel tile roof designs including cost, what it’s made of, durability, colors, maintenance and a comparison between an S-tile and A barrel tile type.
A roof, together with the exterior walls, make up the protective shell of your house against damages. That said, resilience is vital in choosing your roof material, especially if you live in a location with extreme weather.
Your roof should be resistant to violent wind, especially during a storm. It should also withstand constant water exposure, endure powerful impacts, and be fireproof.
Among these high-resistance roofing materials are tiles. But these come in different shapes and styles, like a barrel tile roof or sometimes called a monk and nun tile roof.
Let’s take a closer look at what barrel tile roof offers, considering its material, lifespan, cost, and maintenance.
What Is A Barrel Tile Roof?
Roof tiles have been around for centuries, dating back to Ancient Greece. As time passes, innovation in roofing systems has made available an extensive range of materials and styles.
In a nutshell, a barrel tile roof is one of the many tile roofing styles that interlock semi-cylindrical tiles on top of each other. The tiles lay alternately concave and convex to achieve a roof lined with curvy columns.
Other tile roofing styles include Scandia tiles, Pantile tiles, Spanish and French clay tiles. They vary in shape and patterns, with some that are ribbed, have wider curves, or are inverted. See roof types for more ideas. These differences result in a range of roof looks or designs.
What Are Barrel Tiles Made Of
Clay is the traditional material in making barrel tiles. If you have seen houses with terracotta roofs, they are most likely clay tiles.
With clay tiles existing for centuries, they have proven their durability with a Class 4 high rating in impact resistance. They are also eco-friendly and are easy to form.
To produce barrel tiles, workers craft the clay over the curve of a log, creating a half barrel-like shape.
However, clay tiles can be heavy, weighing between 788 to 1,780lbs per square. They are also expensive and fragile if stepped on.
Through innovation, there are synthetic barrel tiles that are lightweight, affordable, and have different grades.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Barrel Tile Roof?
Barrel tile roofs can last for 50 years or even centuries, as proven by old colonial buildings. But the durability of your roof also relies on the primary structure or support underneath.
Weather can have a significant impact, too, especially if you live in a place that experiences multiple storms or extreme heat. Regular upkeep of your roofing system can go a long way to extend its longevity.
Barrel Tile Roof Colors
Traditional barrel tiles are available in terracotta color. The terracotta shade is distinct for its warm hue of orange and brown. But it can also become reddish depending on where the clay is from.
But with synthetic materials, barrel tile roof colors can range in multiple hues of peach, brown, orange, gold, and charcoal, to name a few.
You can even customize them and combine colors if you’d like. Do note that available colors may vary from one supplier to another, so shop around. Check ou guide to the best matching siding and roof colors.
Can You Paint A Barrel Tile Roof?
Painting your barrel tile roof is possible but not advisable. If you want to restore your roof to its original glory, it is best to clean it up first. You can do this by scraping off the build-up of moss and dirt on each tile. Get extra help and use sodium hydroxide to make your clean-up job effortless.
But if the color fades or you intend to alter the color of your barrel tile roof completely, then painting is your next option.
Since clay tiles are already glazed, the paint will not adhere and may cause more damage. But other barrel tile materials can be painted with proper preparation, from cleaning to applying primer, for the paint to adhere.
How Much Does A Barrel Tile Roof Cost?
On average, traditional barrel tiles cost $10 to $13 per square foot, including materials and installation. Synthetic barrel tiles range from $8 to $16 per square foot.
They also require very little to no maintenance and weigh less at around 250lbs per square, saving you from altering your roof structure to accommodate the weight of the tiles.
Other factors, like the overall quality of the barrel tiles in terms of impact, fireproof, and moisture resistance grade, affect the pricing.
What Is The Difference Between An S-tile And A Barrel tile?
Barrel tiles can either be a Mission tile (traditional shape) or a Spanish tile or S-tile. An S-tile is quite similar to a barrel tile, except with an extra upside curve. In short, S-tiles form S curves. These curves create a wavy pattern when laid next to each other, which some find more attractive.
S-tiles are also mostly made from concrete and are available in different colors like orange, brown, and green. But aside from its visual appeal, these extra curves on S-tiles make them easier to install.
How to Seal A Barrel Tile Roof
Sealing your roof tiles reduces the chances of moss and dirt sticking on the surface. It also protects the color of the tiles from fading too soon, potential cracks, and moisture that can cause further damage.
Before sealing your tile, you need to power wash your roof to remove any dirt and debris. Replace broken tiles with new ones, too. After the tiles are completely dry, apply a roof sealant. Use a penetrating waterproof roof sealer for optimum results.
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Whenever you go on your roof, remember to step in between the tiles to prevent damaging them.
Barrel Tile Roof Leak Repair
Cracked barrel tiles can be a potential source of leaks. Be vigilant in inspecting your roof, especially before the rainy season. Once you see cracks and gaps, you can replace them or fill them with an adhesive.
The latter is a temporary solution and may suffice for small cracks. However, it is still best to replace them when you can with a similar tile. It is also crucial that they are slotted in position perfectly to secure them.
If tile roofs are not for you, you can check out our articles on black roof shingles and other roof shingle types.
