How Does A Clay Tile Roof System Work

Clay tiles are considered to be one of the longest lasting roofing materials available even substantially longer than concrete ones.

How does a clay tile roof system work.

Structural clay tile describes a category of burned clay building materials used to construct roofing walls and flooring for structural and non structural purposes especially in fireproofing applications. Clay and concrete tiles are a great roofing material since they re more durable than shingles but they can break or crack if you apply too much pressure while you re walking on them. Metal and composites tend to last the longest but there are clay tile roofs that are over 100 years old as well. The combined effect of roof tiles decking and air space between the tiles allows for better air circulation and reduces direct heat transfer by up to 50.

Air conditioning costs are lower in the summer and formation of ice dams ridges of ice that prevent melting snow from draining off the roof decreases in the winter. Battens for use on clay tile roofs should be made from pressure treated lumber except in very dry climates. The water repellent underlayment and tile supporting battens have an estimated lifespan of 40 years or less. Position the first tile on the batten with the crown facing up and center the tile from side to side.

Lay out battens to provide equal courses with a minimum 3 inch head lap unless the tile profile is designed for a specific head lap. If deterioration of the underlying support results in leaks or loose tiles the entire roof full of tiles may have to be removed while the. But don t forget that clay tile is only the cosmetic layer of the total roofing system. Drive a 10d nail at the base of the clay tile into the batten.

In terms of durability a well maintained tile roof will outlast a shingle roof by decades. Roof frame support reinforcement requirements. Clay tile roof battens are nailed at minimum 24 inches on center with spaces for drainage every 48 inches. Verify that the tile overhangs the end of the batten by two inches.

Concrete tile roofs are more economical with costs of 400 to 450 per square. While concrete roofing tiles are typically expected to survive 30 50 years in the right conditions a well made clay roof might be expected to last 100 years. Don t overdrive the nail. This is offset though by the long life a tile roof will enjoy.

A clay tile roof system can cost two to three times as much as an asphalt roofing system. An average clay tile roof costs between 675 to 1400 per square 100 sf of roof area. A clay tile roof is considered to be a water shedding system so windblown rain is expected to get in under the tiles and must be accounted for during the installation. While it s usually best to stay off your roof if possible you can still walk on the tiles if you need to make repairs.

Tile roofs are very good insulators.