Roof tiles are the most important part of a house. It is very essential to choose the right kind of roof tiles for your home, any reliable roofing service providers will be able to advise you as to which type of tile is best for your roof. There are different types of roof tiles available in the market and it is necessary to know about them before buying them.
In general concrete tiles and clay tiles are considered to be the best. They last longer than other materials like slate, copper or steel etc. However, there are some drawbacks to these types of tiles as well.
Concrete Roof Tiles: A Concrete roof tile is made from cement which is mixed with water and sand. These tiles are durable but have a tendency to crack easily. The cracks may get bigger over time if not repaired properly. This makes them less attractive. In addition, the tiles can also become slippery when wet.
Clay Roof Tiles: Clay tiles are made from natural materials. They are strong and long-lasting. But they tend to absorb moisture quickly. If you live in an area where it rains often then this will cause problems.
Slate Tiles: Slate tiles are one of the oldest roofing materials used by people. They come in various sizes and shapes. They are available in different colours too. They are easy to install and maintain. They are also more affordable compared to other tiles.
Other Types of Roofing Tiles
The other most common types of roof tiles that are a popular choice are:
Slate tile
This is one of the oldest and most popular roofing materials used by builders all over the world. This material is also known as slate, shale or rock. Slate roofing has been around since ancient times. They are still being manufactured today.
Metal Roof Tiles
They are made out of aluminium metal sheets. Metal roof tiles are lightweight and have good insulation properties.
Wooden Roof Tiles
These are usually made out of wood such as cedar, redwood, mahogany etc. Wooden roof tiles are more expensive than other roof tiles but they last longer.
Ceramic Tile
It is made out of clay and glazed on both sides. Ceramic roof tiles are fire resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Fiberglass Roof Tiles
It is made up of glass fibres that are bonded together using resin. Fibreglass roof tiles are lightweight and easy to install.
Asphalt Shingles
These are usually made from asphalt. Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
Granite Slab
It is a natural stone that comes from quarries. Granite slabs are heavy and difficult to install.
EPDM Rubber Roof Tiles
It consists of rubber granules that are bonded together using polyurethane foam. EPDM roof tiles are flexible and easy to install. They are also waterproof and do not require any maintenance.
Terracotta Tile
These tiles are made from clay which has been baked at high temperatures. These tiles were first introduced during Roman Empire. Terracotta roof tiles are durable and easy to maintain.
There are many more types of roof tiles available but these are the most commonly used ones. You can buy any one of these from any roofing store or you can also get them online. These roof tiles will be installed on top of your roof to make it look beautiful.
Benefits of Choosing Roof Tiles
Choosing the right roof tiles has several benefits. Some of the main advantages of choosing roof tiles are:
- They add beauty to your home by adding style and value.
- They protect your home from rain, snow, wind etc.
- They provide insulation against heat transfer.
- They keep out moisture and insects.
- They increase the value of your property.
- They give a natural appearance to your home.
- They help in reducing energy bills by being energy efficient
- They have a longer life expectancy than other materials
- They are easy to install.
- They are cost-effective.
- They are eco-friendly.
- They are durable.
- They are fire-resistant.
- They have minimum maintenance costs
- They are easy to clean.
- They are lightweight.
- They are easily available.
- They are recyclable.
- They are non-toxic.
- They come in a range of colours
- They are waterproof.
- They are anti-corrosive.
- They are easy to repair.
- They are easy to maintain.
- They are safe to use.
- They are affordable.
- They have an impressive durability
- They are aesthetically pleasing be providing uniform appearance
- They are environmentally friendly.
Roof Pitch and Roof Tile
The pitch of a roof refers to how steeply the roof slopes. The slope of a roof is measured by the angle between the horizontal plane and the vertical plane. There are different pitches for roofs.
Slope 1/12
This is the least steep roof pitch. It is suitable for flat roofs.
Slope 3/12
This is an average roof pitch. This is suitable for houses with pitched roofs.
Slope 5/12
This is a steep roof pitch.
Slope 7/12
This is considered a very steep roof pitch.
A roof tile should fit well with the pitch of your roof. If the roof tiles are too small then they may leak water. On the other hand, if the roof tiles are too large then they may crack due to weight.
Maintenance of Roof Tiles
If you want to maintain your roof tiles then there are certain things that need to be done regularly. Some of these include:
- Regular Roof Cleaning – Cleaning your roof tiles helps in preventing moulds and mildew growth.
- Maintaining Waterproofness – Make sure that your roof tiles are waterproof.
- Roof Repairs – Repairing damaged roof tiles is important.
- Roof Inspections – Inspect your roof every year to ensure that no damage has occurred.
- Maintenance – Keep your roof tiles properly maintained.
- Replace old roof tiles – Old roof tiles become brittle over time and should be replaced.
FAQs
What are the 3 most common roofing tiles?
Concrete, clay and asphalt tiles are the most common roofing materials.
Which roof tiles last the longest?
Concrete clay or slate tiles have an impressive lifespan.
What is the most durable roof tile?
Asphalt shingles, metal, wood shake and slate are some of the most durable building materials used in British homes.
