Terracotta roofing is popular due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. The terracotta roof’s national average cost is $25,000, but this price will vary depending on several factors, such as the roof’s complexity and size. Most homeowners will spend between $16,000 and $34,000, including materials and installation, for a new terracotta roof.
The price of terracotta tiling ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot. Installation adds an additional $5 to $13 per square foot, bringing the total cost of a terracotta roof to $10 to $23 per square foot.
Terracotta roof tiles are more expensive than other roofing tiles but are also more durable. They’re made from natural clay fired in a kiln, making the tile strong and resistant to weathering.
In this article:
- Average Costs
- Terracotta Roof Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Terracotta Roof vs. Other Roof Types
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Terracotta Roof Costs
| National Average | $25,000 |
| Typical Range | $16,000 – $34,000 |
| Low End | $10,000 |
| High End | $67,000 |
The typical cost of a terracotta clay roof installation ranges from $16,000 to $34,000 nationwide. This price covers materials and labor for a standard-size roof. The cost of your project will depend on several factors:
- The style of terracotta roofing tiles you choose
- Roof pitch and size
- The complexity of your roof (if it has many chimneys, skylights, or other features)
- The manufacturer of your tiles
- The climate in your area
- Whether you want to install a new roof or replace an existing one
- Installation costs
The average price for a standard-size terracotta roof nationwide falls between $10 and $23 per square foot. The average cost of materials is $5 to $10 per square foot, while labor costs an additional $5 to $13 per square foot. These prices do not include the cost of removing and disposing of your old roof.
A homeowner can expect to pay up to $67,000 for a large, luxurious terracotta tile roof installation. This price includes materials and labor. On the other hand, a small roof of 1,000 square feet, with mission style terracotta tiles, will be around $10,000 total, on average.
Terracotta Roof Cost Estimator by Roof Size
To determine the cost of a terracotta roof for your house, you’ll need to consider the size of your roof, its pitch, and the pattern or style of tiles you select.
The cost of a terracotta roof will also depend on whether you want to install a new and complex roof or just replace the tiles on an existing one. On average, it costs between $10 and $23 per square foot or $1,000 and $2,300 per roofing square* to install new terracotta roofing.
*Note: 1 roofing square = 100 square feet
The table below provides a general guide for what you can expect to pay for a terracotta roof based on roof size. These prices are for materials and labor only and do not include the cost of removal or disposal of your old roof.
| Roof Square Footage | Materials Cost | Installed Cost (Materials + Labor) |
| 1,000 | $5,000 – 13,000 | $10,000 – $23,000 |
| 1,500 | $7,500 – $19,500 | $15,000 – $34,000 |
| 1,700 | $8,500 – $22,100 | $17,000 – $39,100 |
| 2,000 | $10,000 – $26,000 | $20,000 – $46,000 |
| 2,500 | $12,500 – $32,500 | $25,000 – $57,000 |
| 3,000 | $15,000 – $39,000 | $30,000 – $69,000 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Terracotta roofing is a more expensive option, but it’s also one of the longest-lasting. With proper care, a terracotta roof will last 100 years or more. The tile is also resistant to fire and insects, making it a popular choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires or termites.
The cost of terracotta roofing can vary widely depending on the pattern, shape, color, weight, and production method of clay tiles.
Terracotta Roof Tiles Cost by Type
There are two main methods of production for terracotta roof tiles:
- Manufactured
- Handmade
Handmade terracotta tiles are made by shaping the clay individually instead of using a machine to extrude and cut it, resulting in a higher price tag. In contrast, manufactured terracotta tiles will be on the lower end of the price range.
Terracotta Roof Tiles Cost by Style
The price of installing a terracotta roof can vary depending on the style and fastening system you choose. Simple roof styles like mission tile will be less expensive than more complex designs. Certain terracotta tile styles require special installation techniques, which may impact the final cost.
Types of fastening systems for terracotta roof tiles:
- Interlocking – The terracotta tiles are interconnected with each other.
- Overlapping – The terracotta tiles are laid on top of each other and nailed into place.
| Style | Cost per square foot | Fastening system type |
| Spanish Tiles | $12 – $25 | Interlocking |
| Mission Tiles | $9 – $11 | Overlapping |
| French Tiles | $10 – $18 | Overlapping |
| Riviera Tiles | $9 – $11 | Overlapping |
Labor Cost
The labor cost for terracotta roof installation can vary depending on the size and complexity of the roof. A professional roofer costs between $5 and $13 per square foot to install terracotta roofing. The price of labor will be lower if you’re only replacing the tiles on an existing roof.
A standard roof size of 1,700 square feet will cost between $17,000 and $39,100 to install a new terracotta roof, including labor and materials. To get an accurate estimate of what a terracotta roof will cost for your home, you’ll need to consider the size of your roof, the pitch, and the style of tiles you select.
Expect to pay an additional cost for any unique tile features or roofing designs. Fastening systems like the overlapping tile system will also cost more in labor because the installation is more complex.
Terracotta Roofing Underlayment
Terracotta roofing systems should always be installed over an underlayment to protect the roof deck and extend the life of your roof. You can expect to pay between $2.50 and $3.50 per square foot for a standard roof underlayment. Synthetic underlayments are more expensive, but they’re also lighter and easier to install.
| Product | Average cost per square foot |
| Terracotta Roofing Underlayment | $2.50 – $3.50 |
Delivery Cost
Terracotta roof tiles are heavy, so you can expect to pay extra for shipping if they’re not available locally. The shipping cost will vary depending on the distance the tiles travel and the size of your order. For a standard roof, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 for shipping, on average.
New Roof vs. Roof Replacement Cost
The cost also depends on whether you want to replace an existing roof or install a new one. If you’re looking to install a terracotta roof on a new home, the total cost will be significantly higher than if you’re simply replacing the top layer of an existing roof.
New Roof Installation
The cost of a new roof installation will vary depending on the size and pitch of your roof and the roofing materials you select. For a terracotta roof, you can typically expect to pay between $17,000 and $39,100 for 1,700 square feet of roof.
Installing a new roof costs more than replacing an old one because, with a whole new roof, you have to include the cost of installing extra support, such as roof trusses and sheathing.
Roof Replacement
On average, the cost of a roof replacement will be between $5,706 to $11,185 for a standard-size home. The price will be lower if you only need to replace the tiles, not the entire roof structure.
As with a new roof installation, the price of replacing an old roof will vary depending on the type of roofing materials you select. If you upgrade to a more durable material, such as terracotta, you can expect to pay more. Terracotta roof tiles cost between $3 and $10 per square foot without labor.
Related Services
In addition to the upfront cost of installing a terracotta roof, you’ll need to budget for ongoing maintenance and repairs. With careful planning, a terracotta roof can be a wise investment for your home that lasts the rest of your lifetime.
These ongoing maintenance services include:
- Roof Cleaning
- Roof Repairs
- Roof Inspections
Roof Reinforcement Cost
| Service | Average Additional Cost |
| Reinforcing a Terracotta Tile Roof | $500 to $2,000 |
Terracotta roof tiles are heavier than most other roofing materials, so you may need to reinforce your roof before installation. The cost of structural reinforcement will vary depending on the size and pitch of your roof and the type of reinforcement you need. Typically, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for the materials and labor.
If you’re installing a terracotta roof on a new home, your builder may include the cost of reinforcement in the overall price.
Roof Maintenance and Repairs
Clay roof tiles are durable and require little maintenance, but they can crack or break if they’re not installed correctly. Routine roof inspections and cleaning by a professional yearly can help prevent problems and extend the life of your roof.
| Service | Average Cost |
| Roof repair cost | $500 – $1,000 |
| Roof cleaning cost | $380 – $600 |
| Roof inspection cost | $120 – $320 |
| Roof certification cost | $75 – $200 |
Repairing Terracotta Clay Roof
The cost of roof repairs for a terracotta clay roof will vary depending on the severity of the damage. The price will be relatively low if you only need to replace a few broken tiles. However, for more significant damage, you may need to pay between $500 and $1,000, on average.
It’s important to note that terracotta roof tiles are not easy to replace on your own. If you need to have repairs done, it’s best to hire a professional roofer. On average, a roofing contractor will cost between $35 and $90 per hour.
If there are many broken tiles, replacing the entire roof may be more cost-effective.
Terracotta Clay Roof Cleaning
Terracotta clay roof tiles should be cleaned every few years to prevent buildup of dirt and debris. The cost of professional roof cleaning will vary depending on the size and pitch of your roof, as well as the condition of the tiles. Typically, you can expect to pay between $380 and $600 for the service.
Roof Inspections
Terracotta roofs should also be inspected every few years to ensure the tiles are in good condition. The cost of an inspection varies depending on the size and pitch of your roof and the number of inspectors you hire. You can expect to spend between $120 and $320 on the service.
Hiring a professional roofer to inspect your terracotta roof is the best way to ensure that the tiles stay in good condition for as long as possible. Inspectors will be able to identify damage early and make repairs as needed.
Roof Certification Cost
The cost of roof certification will vary depending on the size and type of certified roof. The average price for a standard roof certification is between $75 and $200. However, the cost can be significantly higher if the roof is larger or more complex.
When considering the cost of roof certification, it is essential to remember that this is an investment in the safety and stability of your home. A certified roof is inspected by a professional and determined to be up to code. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your roof is safe and will not collapse.
Terracotta Roof vs. Other Roof Types
Several types of roofing materials are available when building a new home or replacing an old roof. Each type of material has its benefits and drawbacks, so selecting the option that best suits your needs (and your budget) is essential.
Let’s compare the cost of terracotta tile roofing to other types of tiles and the most popular roofing option for most of the US, asphalt shingles.
| Roofing Material | Average Cost Per Installed Sq. Ft. |
| Terracotta Roof | $10 – $23 |
| Clay Tile Roof | $8 – $24 |
| Concrete Tile Roof | $9 – $22 |
| Asphalt Shingle Roof | $1.28 – $1.90 |
Terracotta Tiles vs. Clay Tiles
Terracotta roofs are made from a type of fired clay that is harder and denser than the clay used for traditional clay roofs. This makes them more durable and longer lasting but also more expensive.
The average cost of a clay tile roof (including terracotta) is between $8 and $24 per square foot. However, the cost of a terracotta roof will be on the high end of that range due to the increased durability and lifespan.
Terracotta Tiles vs. Concrete Tiles
The average price of concrete tile roofing falls between $9 and $22 per square foot installed, which is cheaper than a terracotta roof.
Concrete tile roofing is a more affordable option compared to terracotta. It is also easier to install, so you’ll spend less on labor costs. However, concrete tiles are not as durable as terracotta tiles and will not last as long. They are also more susceptible to cracking and breaking in severe weather conditions.
Terracotta Tiles vs. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States and are the cheapest option. However, they’re not as durable as terracotta tiles, and they only have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years. The average price per square foot of asphalt shingles is $1.28 to $1.90.
Pros and Cons of Terracotta Roofing vs. Other Roof Types
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Aesthetically pleasing ✓ Natural and environmentally friendly ✓ Durable and long-lasting ✓ Fire-resistant ✓ Low-maintenance | ✗ High upfront cost ✗ Heavy and difficult to install ✗ Can crack or break in cold weather conditions |
Terracotta Roof Cost by Location
Terracotta roof installation costs will vary depending on your location. The regional climate impacts the price of a terracotta roof. For instance, it typically costs more to install a terracotta roof in Florida than in Texas because of Florida’s increased labor costs and hurricane-prone weather.
The following are average costs for terracotta roof installation in various locations around the United States:
| Location | Average Terracotta Clay Roof Cost |
| Houston, TX | $17,300 |
| Tampa, FL | $19,500 |
| Chicago, IL | $17,500 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $22,200 |
However, there are some general ballpark figures you can expect to pay for a terracotta roof. For instance, most homeowners report spending between $16,000 and $34,000 on terracotta roofs. The average cost of a terracotta roof is about $25,000 nationwide.
FAQ About Terracotta Roofs
Terracotta roofs are very energy efficient. They absorb and reflect heat, which helps to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can help you save money on your energy bills.
The average weight of terracotta clay tiles is between 6 and 15 pounds per square foot.
Terracotta roofs are a good option for homeowners who want a durable and long-lasting roof. However, they may not be the best choice for homeowners in areas with extremely cold weather.
Terracotta roofs can last for over 100 years with proper maintenance.
For a clay terracotta roof, the required slope is 2½:12 inches. If the slope is between 2½:12 and 4:12, you will need to double your underlayment. Do not use clay tiles if the roof’s slope is greater than 4:12.
It is not recommended to apply the DIY method to this project. Terracotta tiles are very heavy, and their installation requires special training and proper equipment. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is always the best option.
Find a Roofing Contractor Near You
Many prefer terracotta roofing to traditional roofs since it’s both long-lasting and attractive. Terracotta roof’s cost, like any other type, depends on several factors, such as the complexity and size of your roof.
In general, homeowners will spend, on average, between $16,000 and $34,000 on a standard-size terracotta roof project, or about $10 to $23 per square foot.
While the initial investment may be higher than other roofing options, terracotta roofs typically last longer and require less maintenance over time. If you’re considering a terracotta roof for your home, RoofGnome connects you to the best roofing contractors near you.
Main Photo Credit: Ed G / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
