Tile roofing background
Before we set out to the methods Roof Buddies use to repair tile roof surfaces, I want to give a bit of background on roof tiles in general. In the following posts, we will look at the methods we use to repair common defects found on tiled roofs.
We will also look at the most cost-effective way to paint a tiled roof surface. We get a lot of enquiries in this regard. Many homeowners need to cut costs but do not want to compromise quality.
We have a set way of putting new life into an old, tiled roof which will enhance the value and aesthetics of your home tremendously!
Clay roof tiles
For centuries clay roof tiles have been used as the primary roof covering method. These tiles consist, as the name implies, of clay that is burned in an oven to get the required strength and durability characteristics.
In South Africa, we seldom use this type of roof tiles. The reason is that they are extremely expensive to manufacture. Also, if you require a specific look and style, it normally needs to be imported. This poses a big problem if repairs are required in future.
There are, however, various manufacturers in South Africa supplying clay roof tiles. The colours and styles are however limited to only terracotta and red.
Concrete roof tiles
Today the commonly used roof tile is manufactured from concrete. The range of profiles, colours and finishes is vast, and manufacturers still expand these ranges. Finishes will vary from one manufacturer to another but what makes these roof coverings so versatile is that they serve a variety of tastes which enhance the visual appearance of any roof.
Surface finishes are categorised in accordance with SABS specifications and all coatings are supplied under factory-controlled conditions. Members of the Concrete Manufacturers Association manufacture these tiles and SANS 542: 2012 requirements must be met.
This is a standard specification and tile roofing basic for all concrete roof tiles manufactured in South Africa. Manufacturing these tiles also must be done in accordance with the SABS ISO 9002 Quality Management System.
Tile roofing categorisation with respect to body colour and surface coatings
Category 1
Plain concrete roof tiles with no body colour and no surface finish.
Category 2
No body colour but a surface coating is applied during the manufacturing process.
Category 3
These tiles have a body colour throughout. The required colouring pigments are mixed into the concrete prior to the extrusion process. Colour differences may occur.
Category 4
The tiles also have a body colour throughout except that there is a coating, typically acrylic, applied during the manufacturing in the factory. This is a particularly important characteristic as it eliminates colour variation and efflorescence.
Tile roofing installation parameters
The following installation parameters must be adhered to when installing roof tiles to ensure the roof has the proper function as required by SANS standards:
- A minimum roof pitch of 17 degrees with a 100mm tile headlap.
- A minimum roof pitch of 26 degrees with a 75mm tile headlap.
- The maximum rafter centres should be as follows:
- 760mm with 38 x 38mm batten,
- 900mm with 38 x 50mm batten fixed flat,
- 1000mm with 38 x 50mm batten on the edge.
- Underlay should be considered in all cases. Modern practices have demonstrated that installing underlay forms a fundamental part of waterproofing tiled roof surfaces with a pitch of 26 degrees and less, pitches above 45 degrees, as well as pitched roofs in exposed and coastal areas.
Tip: Always consult an engineer when designing any roof and roofing components. Also, remember that all structural timber must comply with SANS 1783 when doing timber purchases yourself.
If you require assistance with tile roofing considerations, give Roof Buddies a call. We will gladly assist.
Happy roofing!
Peter