Terracotta tiles always add beauty to a home. Their rich red hues add warmth to their welcoming properties, and they use durable materials that can last up to 60 years with proper care.
In Melbourne, these tiles are extremely popular, and because the clay surface easily attracts moss, lichen and wears down over time, we often do more work on terracotta roofs than any other type of roof.
However, there comes a time when you want something different. After a home renovation, you may find that your roof needs a fresh look or a new shade, which may make you wonder if painting your terracotta tiles is an option. But is it really possible?
What are terracotta roof tiles?
Most people rarely think about roof tiles, yet the story of terracotta roofs goes back thousands of years. The word terracotta literally means “baked clay,” which perfectly describes the material – clay that has been heated to very high temperatures in a kiln until it becomes solid and durable.
Terracotta tiles have been used around the world, including in regions such as China, India, and Europe, proving their long-lasting power. Traditionally made from locally collected clay, these tiles often serve both functional and decorative roles in temples, palaces, and other culturally significant structures. Over time, terracotta has become one of the most trusted roofing choices worldwide, appreciated for its strength and classic look. With its rich heritage and timeless appeal, terracotta is emerging as one of the preferred options for traditional roofing today.
Why is it difficult to paint terracotta roof tiles?
Painting may seem like an easy way to freshen up the look of your terracotta roof, but before you pick up the brush, you should be aware of the challenges that come with it. Instead of giving your home a neat, bright look, paint on terracotta often looks patchy, rough, and dull. The biggest reason behind this problem lies in the glaze. For centuries, artisans have been applying glaze to pottery, and many terracotta tiles wear this glossy coating to protect the clay from moisture and wear. Unfortunately, when you try to paint over this glazed surface, the finish becomes a major obstacle. The paint doesn’t hold up to the glaze properly. At best, the paint can dry unevenly and start to peel quickly. At worst, it won’t stick at all and will simply slide off the tile.
What about painting unglazed terracotta tiles?
If your tiles don’t have a glaze, you might be tempted to try painting them. While this works a little better than painting glazed tiles, it still doesn’t ensure a smooth or attractive finish. Unglazed terracotta is very porous, so it absorbs color – and even moisture – from the environment very quickly. This can leave your roof looking patchy, stained, and much less attractive than when you started.
How to Restore Terracotta Roof Tiles
When you choose terracotta roofing, you should expect some natural signs of aging. Like other natural materials, terracotta will fade and change with the weather over the years. Although painting may seem like a quick fix, it’s rarely the best option for preserving your tiles.
So what can you do instead? If you want to brighten up your terracotta roof without risking a bad finish or shortening its lifespan, you have many better options. You can start with a simple DIY cleaning using a stiff brush and garden hose to remove any dirt or mold that is dulling the tiles. You should also remove moss, lichen, and other growth, as this can weaken the tiles over time. Professional roofers offer deep cleaning services and terracotta tile replacement as part of a complete roof restoration. High-pressure washing can restore the roof’s natural shine and luster, without damaging the glaze, and damaged tiles can be replaced separately.
Why choose to paint your terracotta roof?
- Instant aesthetic upgrade: A fresh coat of paint brings back the natural beauty of your roof and instantly enhances your home’s street appeal.
- Strong weather protection: High-quality coatings protect your tiles from harsh UV rays, moisture, moss growth, and surface wear.
- Increased property value: A clean, well-maintained roof shows buyers that the home has been cared for and will maintain quality over time.
- Budget-friendly solution: Painting gives your terracotta roof a fresh, new look without the expense of a full tile replacement.
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Step-by-step process for painting a terracotta roof
Initial inspection
Our trained experts closely examine the tiles, identifying cracks, loose mortar, or any visible damage. We guide you through any necessary repairs or tile replacements before painting begins.
Thorough Cleaning
We use high-pressure, environmentally conscious cleaning methods to remove moss, dirt and old coatings. This reveals the true condition of the roof and ensures that the new coating adheres properly.
Repairs and Preparation
We replace damaged tiles and rebed or repoint loose mortar. This repair strengthens the roof and creates a smooth, stable surface ready for coating.
Priming with Elite Terracotta Primer
We apply NewTek’s Elite Terracotta Primer, which is designed to bond perfectly to glazed and unglazed terracotta tiles. This water-based primer provides strong adhesion, low VOC levels and reliable long-term durability.
Using a Premium Topcoat
For the final finish, we use Regent TileGuard – a water-based, high-gloss topcoat with 100% acrylic polymers, designed to enhance the appearance of most roof surfaces while providing a permanent protective layer.
How much does it cost to paint a terracotta roof?
The cost of painting a terracotta roof usually depends on the total area of your roof and a few other factors, such as the shape, height, and overall design of your home. Most roofing professionals charge between $5–$20 per square foot for this service. On average, homeowners spend about $7–$8 per square foot for expert terracotta roof painting.
How long does it take to paint a terracotta roof professionally?
One of the most common questions people ask is, “How long does it take to paint a terracotta roof?”
The truth is – it varies.
Painting a terracotta roof can take anywhere from 2-3 days to a full week, depending on the size of the roof and how detailed the work is.
In most cases, professionals need 5-8 hours to complete the cleaning, prep work, and first coat. This stage involves washing the tiles and repairing any chips or cracks. After that, they return to apply at least two more coats, depending on your preferred finish and coverage.
Transform your home with Quest Paintings
At Quest Paintings, we make homes fresh and beautiful. Our team specializes in house painting, commercial painting, and residential painting. Whether you want to brighten up your living room, give your home a new look from the outside, or freshen up your roof, we do it all with care and quality. We also offer professional painters Chelsea for businesses that need a clean, professional finish. Let Quest Paintings help you brighten up your home or office with your favorite colors!
Read More: How to Use a Paint Roller on Walls Like a Pro: Tips & Techniques
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is special preparation work required before painting terracotta tiles?
Yes. Proper preparation includes:
- A thorough inspection of the entire roof
- A thorough cleaning of the roof
- Treatment of all moss and mold
- Replacing or repairing cracked or damaged tiles
- Applying a strong bonding primer
Good preparation work plays a key role in ensuring that your roof lasts a long time.
Q2. What products are best for painting terracotta tiles?
Trusted choices include:
- Newtech Paints – Their Tileflex and Terracotta Roof Coating ranges work well on both glazed and unglazed tiles.
- Regent Paints – They offer excellent adhesion, UV protection and breathable coatings that are ideal for terracotta roofs.
Q3. Is painting a terracotta roof cheaper than replacing it?
Yes. Painting a terracotta roof costs much less than a complete replacement and still offers impressive cosmetic and protective benefits.
Q4. Can I choose the color when painting terracotta tiles?
Of course. Both NewTek Paint and Regent Paint offer a wide selection of UV-stable, roof-safe colors. You can match your original shade or choose a completely new style.
Q5. Where can I see examples of your terracotta tile painting work?
You can explore our results in the Terracotta Roof Gallery, which features before and after photos of real local projects completed with NewTek and Regent coatings.
