One of the oldest forms of tiles found in pitched roofs is tile. A tile roof has provided coverage from harsh weathers and seasons keeping everyone inside the home warm and dry. Tile is fireproof and more homeowners are choosing to go with this type of roof covering than any other type.
Clay tiles are popular because they come in several colors and designs. They can be molded into a tile shape and it is lighter when compared to the other tiles. Clay tiles have been used in many homes all around the world. It's chosen so much because clay has been easy to get a hold of and is inexpensive. It requires a baking process and then a cooling process to complete and then the tile roof is ready to put together.
Concrete tiles are another option for roofs. There are many different varieties of concrete tiles to choose from. The disadvantage is that concrete is heavier than other tiles however the concrete can also be warmer and easier to deal with. Before you begin, you need to make sure that you have all the tools necessary to perform the project completely. You will need a saw, cant strips, insulation, tiles, metal flashing, and battens.
How to Install a tile roof
To begin, you will need to add your roofing insulation to the flat surface of the roof. There is many different types of roofing insulation to choose from so you can decide when you are ready. The most popular type is the thirty-pound felt. This is the most common choice for homeowners because it does a good job at protecting your roof and keeping damaging water away from the structure.
Next you want to install the metal flashing where you feel it is needed. Flashing helps to join to areas or sections of roofing together such as around skylights and chimney's. The best choice in flashing is the twenty-eight gauge corrosion-resistant metal.
Now you want to nail down the cant strip flat against the eave of the roof. You will need to make sure that the strip slants the first layer of tiles so that it will create an even pattern with the rest of them. That way water can drain down like it should.
Now you will need to measure the length of the tile and then mark the next area. Be sure to allow a one-inch overhang for the eave to be covered. You will then want to nail the batten blow the tiles and flat against the line. Do this all the way through until you have completed the entire roof tile look. Follow through with locking all the joint areas to make sure that you form a good seal using your tiles and that will protect them.
Over the years you may find that a clay is not suitable for your environment due to too harsh of a winter or because you do not like the look of the finished project. Tile has been used for many years and has proven to be dependable and reliable in separating you from the harsh elements. Instead of going with the normal clay look choose another design instead.