Roof tiles come in a wide variety of materials and profiles, making it difficult for many homeowners to choose the right tile for their roof.
What’s more, each material or profile has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Confused? No need to be!
At Good Build Superstore, we took a deep dive into the different types of roof tiles in the UK and put together this guide to help you make an informed decision.
Here’s what we’re going to cover.
Table of contents:
- Clay tiles
- Concrete tiles
- Slate tiles
- Metal tiles
- Flat tiles
- Interlocking tiles
- Roman tiles
- Spanish tiles
- Barrel tiles
- Final thoughts
Clay tiles
Clay tiles have been used for centuries and have a traditional appearance. They are available in a range of colours and profiles, including flat, Roman and pantile. Clay tiles are durable, fire-resistant and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
In addition, they’re extremely long-lasting – if you look after your clay tiles properly, you can expect them to last up to 50-60 years.
Concrete tiles
One of the most popular roof tile types in the UK in recent years, concrete tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water. Like clay tiles, they are available in a variety of colours and profiles, such as flat, Roman and pantile. They are durable and low maintenance and can also last as long as 50-60 years before you have to replace them.
On the downside, concrete they are heavier than other types, so the roof structure needs to be strong enough to support them.
Slate tiles
Slate tiles are a natural material and have been used for centuries. Aesthetically pleasing, they have a traditional appearance and are available in a range of colours and profiles. Spanish slate tiles, Welsh slate products, Canadian slate products and Brazilian slate tiles are especially hip right now.
What’s more, slate tiles are fire-resistant, durable and very easy to maintain maintenance, with an incredible service life of over 100 years. They are also lightweight, so the roof structure doesn’t need to be as strong as it does for clay or concrete tiles. However, they can be more expensive than other tiles.
Metal tiles
Metal tiles are a highly versatile solution, with copper, zinc, aluminium and galvanised steel options all readily available on the market. They are also available in a range of colours and profiles, including traditional roof tile profiles.
In addition, metal tiles are lightweight, easy to install and durable as well as fire-resistant and low maintenance. However, they can be noisy in heavy rain or hail, and they are not as traditional looking as other types.
Flat tiles
These are simple, flat rectangular tiles that are laid in rows on the roof. They are often made of clay or concrete and can be either smooth or textured.
Interlocking tiles
These are a type of modular tile that snaps together like puzzle pieces. They are often made of concrete and can be used to create a range of different patterns and styles.
Roman tiles
These are also known as S-tiles because of their curved shape. They interlock to form a distinctive pattern that gives the roof a classic Mediterranean look.
Spanish tiles
These are similar to Roman tiles but have a more pronounced curve and a more textured surface. They are often made of clay and are popular in areas with a hot, dry climate.
Barrel tiles
These are also known as mission tiles and have a half-round shape. They are often made of clay or concrete and are commonly found on Mediterranean-style homes.
Final thoughts
With many different types of roof tiles currently available on the UK market, complete with a wide range of sizes, profiles and colours, it’s easy to get lost.
The good news is:
Once you’ve considered several key factors, such as the weight of the tile, the strength of the roof structure, the durability and maintenance requirements and the appearance, you should have no trouble choosing the right type for your roof that will provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal.