Clay Roof Tile Facts
Clay roof tile is actually one of the oldest building materials that is still used on a regular basis. Archaeologists have discovered clay roofing tiles in Greece dating back 4000 years; this material was also used by the ancient Egyptians, Indus Valley Civilization and China. The Mediterranean styles of clay roofing tile have had the greatest influence, however; adopted first by the Romans and then spread to the New World through Spanish colonists and merchants, clay roof tiles continue to be a popular roof covering.
The Process
Clay roof tile is very similar to a piece of fine Ceramic Pottery. Like pottery, clay roof tiles undergo the kiln-firing process, which makes them very hard and durable; a roof made from such materials can easily last a century or more. The difference is that clay roofing tiles cannot be formed by hand; they require a specially designed mold. This mold serves two purposes:
1. it insures that the tiles interlock properly when installed
2. it permits the design of channels that direct rain off the roof
Like ceramic pottery, clay roofing tiles can be made with pigments that can change the color. In addition, there are applications and materials that can be used to give them a rustic, weathered look.
Once clay roofing tiles come out of the kiln, a protective glaze is applied in order to minimize the effects of time and weather.
Beautifying Your Home
Clay roofing tile is not only durable, it adds color and visual interest in different ways. One of these ways involves the play of light and shadow over the course of the day; different shaped clay roofing tiles cast different kinds of shadows over the course of the day.
A Caveat
Two issues to remember about clay roof tiles are climate at weight. Clay roof tile was designed for a relatively warm, dry climate. There are however grades of clay roofing tile that are made to stand up to colder, wetter and harsher climates.
The other issue is weight. Clay roofing tiles are considerably heavier than composite shingles or even cedar shakes. Ideally, your home will be designed with the installation of clay roof tiles in mind; the structure will be designed to bear the greater load. If you are planning to install clay roof tile on an existing home that was not designed for them, you should consult with a qualified contractor before going ahead.
About the Author
Wayne Hemrick writes about–clay roof tiles.
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