In Middle Tennessee, your roof has to do more than look good; it has to withstand hail, humidity, sun, and sudden storms. When it’s time to choose a new roofing material, many homeowners find themselves comparing a tile vs asphalt roof and wondering: which is better for Nashville homes?
Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install, while synthetic tile roofs offer longevity and style, but often at a higher cost. So, how do you know which is right for your home? Let’s compare the differences between concrete tile roof vs asphalt shingles.
Not sure where to start? Schedule a free inspection with Undersun Roofing to talk through your roofing goals and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Asphalt shingles are more affordable and quicker to install than tile roofing.
- Synthetic tile roofs (Brava and Euroshield) offer longer lifespans, 50+ years, with low maintenance.
- Architectural, premium, and impact-resistant asphalt shingles provide strong storm protection and good curb appeal.
- Synthetic tiles deliver high-end aesthetics and natural insulation, ideal for long-term energy savings.
- Asphalt shingles are lightweight and fit most roof structures without upgrades.
- Tile roofing requires a higher upfront investment but offers superior durability and ROI.
- For storm-prone Nashville areas, impact-resistant shingles or synthetic tiles offer excellent protection.
What’s the Difference Between Asphalt Shingles and Tile Roofs?
Asphalt shingles and tile roofs are two of the most common materials used in residential roofing, but they’re built very differently.
Asphalt shingles are lightweight, overlapping sheets made from fiberglass and asphalt, designed to protect your home from water and wind. They come in several grades, including architectural, premium, and impact-resistant options.
Synthetic tile roofing, like Brava and Euroshield, mimics the appearance of natural clay or slate tiles but is made from engineered materials designed for durability and energy efficiency. Unlike traditional concrete tile roofs, these synthetic options are much lighter and require less structural reinforcement.
In a place like Nashville, where hot summers, hailstorms, and sudden downpours are the norm, understanding how these materials hold up can save you from expensive surprises down the road.
What You Need to Know Before You Decide
Before choosing between a tile vs asphalt roof, consider these factors:
- Budget: Asphalt shingles are more budget-friendly up front. Tile options, especially synthetic, are a longer-term investment.
- Roof Structure: While synthetic tiles are lighter than clay or concrete, your roof still needs to be evaluated for weight compatibility.
- Aesthetic Goals: Tile roofs give a high-end, timeless look. Asphalt shingles offer more color and texture flexibility.
- Climate Exposure: Nashville’s hail, heat, and humidity can affect different materials in different ways.
Need help assessing your home? Our team offers free inspections to help you determine if your structure can support a tile system or if shingles are the smarter fit.
Comparing Tile vs Asphalt Roofs in Nashville
Let’s break it down across key categories:
| Feature | Asphalt Shingles | Synthetic Tile Roofing (Brava & Euroshield) |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost; budget-friendly | Higher initial investment |
| Lifespan | Moderate | 20-30 years |
| Weight | Lightweight; no structural upgrade needed | Heavier, but lighter than traditional tile |
| Installation | Quick (1–2 days); minimal labor | More complex, takes longer |
| Weather Resistance | High with impact-resistant options | Excellent in storms, sun, and hail |
| Style & Curb Appeal | Many colors, textures; classic or modern look | Mimics high-end clay/slate aesthetics |
| Maintenance | Low, especially with premium/impact shingles | Very low; color retention lasts decades |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate; reflective options available | Naturally insulative; reduces cooling bills |
If cost and ease of installation are your priorities, architectural or impact-resistant asphalt shingles are a reliable and attractive choice. They’re especially popular for Nashville homes due to their fast installation and storm resistance.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for premium curb appeal and long-term durability, Brava or Euroshield synthetic tiles can deliver the upscale look of a tile roof without the excessive weight of concrete tiles. While the upfront investment is higher, you’ll save on energy bills and avoid frequent repairs for decades.
Diving Deeper: Lifespan, ROI & Energy Performance
Lifespan and Return on Investment
Premium and impact-resistant asphalt shingles can last 25–30 years with proper maintenance, offering strong ROI for homeowners planning to stay put for a decade or two. Shingles are also easier to repair, which keeps long-term costs in check.
Brava and Euroshield synthetic tile roofs, meanwhile, are built for the long haul. These materials boast a 50+ year lifespan, and their color retention and structural integrity stay consistent even after hailstorms or UV exposure. That longevity can increase property value and reduce replacement frequency, key benefits if you’re investing for the next generation.
Energy Efficiency
Synthetic tiles provide natural insulation that reduces indoor temperature swings during Tennessee summers. Combined with their heat-reflective surfaces, they can significantly reduce your cooling bills. While standard shingles absorb more heat, solar-reflective asphalt shingles are available to help mitigate temperature spikes in attics.
Maintenance & Weather Performance
In storm-prone areas like Brentwood and Franklin, impact-resistant shingles are an excellent line of defense against hail and wind. They’re also easier to replace if a small section gets damaged.
Synthetic tiles like Brava and Euroshield are designed to resist cracking, chipping, and fading, even in extreme conditions. With their long warranties and low maintenance requirements, they’re ideal for homeowners who want peace of mind year-round.
Nashville Roofing FAQs: Tile vs Asphalt Roof
Is A Tile Roof Better Than Asphalt Shingles?
It depends on your goals. A tile roof, especially synthetic, offers better longevity and energy efficiency, but asphalt shingles are more affordable and easier to install.
How Long Do Synthetic Tile Roofs Last In Nashville?
Most synthetic tile roofs last 50+ years. Products like Brava and Euroshield are engineered to resist hail, UV damage, and fading.
What Are The Best Asphalt Shingles For Nashville Homes?
Architectural and impact-resistant shingles are ideal due to their weather durability, fire resistance, and long-lasting color retention.
Can I Install A Tile Roof On Any House?
Not always. Even with lightweight synthetic tiles, your roof may need reinforcement. A structural evaluation is necessary before switching from shingles to tile.
What Is The Price Difference Between A Tile Vs Asphalt Roof?
Tile roofs can cost 2–3x more than asphalt shingles. However, they often last twice as long, potentially saving on future replacements.
Choose the Roof That Works for Your Nashville Home
In the tile vs asphalt roof debate, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, just the best fit for your home, budget, and lifestyle. If you want classic curb appeal, fast installation, and affordability, asphalt shingles (especially impact-resistant or premium options) are a smart pick for Nashville’s climate. If you’re planning long-term and want enduring style with fewer maintenance headaches, a Brava or Euroshield synthetic tile roof may be the perfect solution.
At Undersun Roofing, we offer both high-performance asphalt shingles and beautiful synthetic tile roofing backed by expert installation, extended warranties, and local experience. Whether you’re in Franklin, Brentwood, or East Nashville, our team can help you choose the roof that’s right for you.
Schedule your free inspection today and let’s find the perfect roof for your home.
