Everything You Need To Know About Clay Roof Tiles

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By George Taylor

Updated: Jan 25, 2024

8 min read

Clay Roof Tiles

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    Clay has been one of the most popular materials for roof tiles for a long long time now. There are a plethora of benefits one gets when installing clay roof tiles on their house.

    Modern clay roof tiles are available in a wide range of colors and shapes, which makes them one of the best options for homeowners who like to change the look of their house frequently without compromising the perks.

    If you have been looking for a durable and low maintenance material for roof tiles, then you might have just found that by coming here.

    This guide will help you get equipped with all the information you need about clay roof tiles. From the types of clay roof tiles to their pros and cons, we have got it all covered right here. So, make sure that you read the whole blog to avoid missing out on any important piece of information about clay roof tiles.

    Types Of Clay Tiles

    Clay roof tiles are very versatile in nature and hence, provide countless styles and ideas for you to choose from. The availability of thousands of options is exciting but also quite a hassle.

    In order to save you the trouble of narrowing down the kinds of clay roofs, we have compiled a list of some of the greatest ones from which you can select based on the type of home you have and your own preferences and taste.

    Also Read about Barn Roof Styles

    Flat Clay Roof Tiles

    Flat Clay Roof Tiles

    There are two ways that flat tiles can be used, one is interlocking tiles so they fit together like puzzle pieces because they have a lip on one side and a passageway on the other. Another way in which flat roofing can also be applied is by creating an overlapping pattern to create an intricate design.

    Using this style of clay roof is a great way to ensure a longer life of the roof while also creating a beautiful and functional pattern. Flat tiles often have a seamless, rectangular shape, but they may also have aged or distorted surfaces for an older, more handcrafted appearance. Flat clay tiles can be overlapped or put flat like slate.

    Here are some Inspiring Roofing Tiles Types

    Spanish Clay Roof Tiles

    Spanish Clay Roof Tiles

    One of the best choices for you if you want a versatile and stylish roof, is Spanish clay tiles. These interlocked S-shaped tiles are installed in a barrel form, create a ripple effect on the roof, and also don’t require additional panels.

    Spanish tiles are quick and easy to install and also versatile as they can be installed on both curved and sloped roofs. This style of clay roof tiles is one of the best choices for you if you want to make your home look welcoming and warm while also adding a rustic touch to it.

    French Clay Roof Tiles

    French Clay Roof Tiles

    French clay roof tiles are very popular throughout many countries in the field of home exteriors and decor. These clay tile roofs have tabs on the top and sides and are interlocked, hence providing a traditional look to the house.

    These clay roof tiles come in a wide variety of colors which makes it so much easier to choose the right color for your home according to your taste and preferences. Make sure that you consult a professional at least annually to keep your French roof in mint condition throughout its lifespan.

    Barrel Style Shingles

    Barrel Style Shingles

    By alternating concave pans, or dips, with convex coverings, these clay roof tiles create a wave design. The top and bottom tiles of these tiles can likewise be built of curved barrels, or they can have curved coverings with flat pans underneath. For this reason, they are often referred to as “pan tiles”.

    This is one of the best styles of clay roofs if you want to create a dramatic effect while also keeping it subtle and elegant. This style of clay roof can be great to give your home a vintage colonial effect when used in the right way. The possibilities of using barrel style shingles for the house roof are endless.

    Maintenance Of Clay Roof Tiles

    Despite the fact that clay tiles are recognized for being minimal maintenance, there are a few things you can do to make sure they stay safe and seem brand new for a longer time. By following the care instructions listed below, you can ensure that your clay tile roof lasts for more than a century in pristine condition.

    Regular Cleaning: You can increase the longevity of your clay tile roof by keeping it clean on a regular basis. Clay tiles are susceptible to the growth of algae, mold, and filth over time, particularly in shady sections of the house where moisture can collect. That is why it is important to ensure that you clean your roof regularly.

    Roof Inspections Are Important: Keeping a check on your clay tile roof is crucial to make sure that no damage goes unnoticed and the safety of your home and family are not compromised. It is advisable to get your clay roof inspected annually by a professional to make sure that the roof stays in mint condition during its lifespan.

    Sealing The Tiles: Sealing clay roof tiles might not make much of a difference in its longevity, but it will surely help you with its maintenance. Finding a specialist who will inspect your clay roof in order to specify whether it needs sealing or not is advisable.

    Change The Broken Tiles: Due to the high likelihood of clay tiles breaking or splitting over time from severe weather, it is crucial to ensure that all damaged tiles are regularly changed. It is necessary to replace the damaged tiles and completely seal any leaks. As soon as a new tile has been placed, check to see that it is in step with the surrounding tiles.

    The Final Takeaway

    The plethora of benefits that come with clay roof tiles is a major defining factor in its popularity among the house exterior and decor industry. The durability, versatility, and appearance are some of the well known perks of clay tile roofs to name a few.

    There are however, some factors that you must take into consideration when it comes to choosing the roof style because if it suits one house doesn’t mean that it will be good for yours too. Hence, it is crucial that you weigh out all your options when choosing the roof of your home.

    Clay roof tiles are a great option when it comes to that but just like every other thing, they too have their pros and cons which must be considered before installing them.

    You can also ensure that your clay roof tiles keep looking as good as new by following the maintenance steps mentioned in this article. So, do not miss out on any important details about clay roof tiles to get the best out of your options. Have fun remodeling your house exterior!

    FAQs

    Is It Safe to Walk on a Clay Tile Roof?

    No, it is not safe or feasible to walk on a clay tile roof while it is being installed, inspected, or maintained as it can easily break the delicate tiles, necessitating expensive reconstruction and replacement and also hurting you in the process.

    What is the Difference Between Clay and Terracotta Roof Tiles?

    Clay tiles and terracotta are not really two very different things because there is just one difference between the two is the state of the material because clay is a product in its raw form but terracotta is the baked and sculpted form of clay.

    Are Clay Roofs Good for the Environment?

    The sustainability of both concrete and clay roof tiles is intrinsic. Concrete and clay tiles are made of minerals, are non-toxic, and can be recycled back into production right away, in contrast to other roofing supplies, especially petroleum-based asphalt shingles, which fill dumps.

    Are Clay Tiles Waterproof?

    Clay tiles can be waterproof but only to a certain extent and not completely. Instead of being known as waterproofing systems, they are more commonly called water-shedding systems, because chances are that the water will probably seep in between the roof tiles.

    Why Does Florida Have Clay Roofs?

    Clay tiles are used in traditional Mission construction, and they are incredibly resilient. They were selected because they could easily withstand both the oppressive heat and the salty sea air. This is why they are so popularly used in coastal Florida.

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