Types of Roof Tiles
A tile roof is a great way to add a decorative element to your home or business while also providing an aesthetically pleasing design. There are several types of roof tiles to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the best option is critical for a long-lasting, functional roofing system.
Clay Tile
One of the oldest forms of roofing, clay tiles are traditionally made from clay and baked at high temperatures. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and can be glazed for added protection. Some styles include the traditional S-shaped tile, pan, and cap, or interlocking.
Sandcast Tile
Like clay tiles, sand-cast tiles are made of clay but have a unique texture and look that comes from a special casting process. These are very durable and can stand up to the elements, especially hail, and wind.
Polymer-Sand Tile
If you are looking for a more modern look, polymer-sand tiles are a good option. They have many benefits over slate and concrete tile including being fireproof, lightweight, and less likely to break. They also require very little maintenance or replacement and can last for decades.
Stone Coated Metal
Another modern, eco-friendly roofing material is stone-coated steel roof tile. It uses a galvalume sheet as the substrate and then covers it with colored sand chips and an acrylic resin adhesive to create a softer look. It’s much lighter than traditional metal tiles, and offers a longer warranty, making it an excellent choice for any building project.
Batten Gauge
The batten gauge largely determines the number of tiles in a square. To calculate the batten gauge, measure from the eaves to the ridge at the highest point of your roof. Then, divide that distance by the maximum batten gauge of the tile being used.
Depending on the slope, the batten gauge can either be too tight or too loose. It is important to use a batten gauge that matches the roof pitch. If you don’t use a batten gauge that matches the slope of your roof, your tile might not hold up.
If the batten gauge is too loose, it can cause your tile to slide down and snag on the sides of the roof, which can be very expensive. It’s a good idea to get your roof measured and installed by an experienced professional.
Ceramic Tile
Unlike sand tile, which is composed of sand mixed with polymers, ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of clay and cement. The mixture is then glazed and fired. This process produces a very durable, non-corrosive, and lightweight tile that is easy to install.
Ceramic tiles can be manufactured in a wide range of styles and finishes, including textured, glazed, and natural. Some are even designed to resemble slate and stone.
Copper Tile