Pence and Sons Roofing and Remodeling
Danville, Ky 40422 (859) 319-2776
Clay tile roofing gives a home that distinctive old-world character and warm feel that that no other type of roofing can match, attractive to many homeowners and developers. Clay roofing tiles offer a wide range of colors and a robust durability.
Clay tile roofing is an architectural feature seen in homes that are done in the Spanish or Mediterranean style and are very durable. Many clay tile roofs installed over a hundred years ago still exist today, more than proving its durability as a roofing option. Their colors are distinctive, mellowing over time, and able to withstand harsh weather conditions for decades.
The Different Colors of Clay Tile Roofing
The most common color in clay roofing tiles is a dark reddish color, coming from the iron oxide content of the clay. The colors common to clay tile roofing range from deep reddish brown to pale orange or even pink. Light-colored tiles such as those in beige were made from pure fire clay. Pouring manganese dissolved in water over the tiles before firing will result in brown or black tiles.
Shades of Clay Roof Tiles
Modern methods have made it possible to have clay tile roofing in a variety of colors, like shades of blue and green. Also, tiles baked over a wood fire could exhibit a range of colors. Those tiles closest to the fire will bake into a dark red shade while those farther away would likely be a lighter orange.
Two Types of Clay Tile Roofing
Traditionally, there are two types of clay roofing tiles:
- Interlocking – these tiles come in pairs so that the “lip” on one tile will go into the “hooks” of the other to lock both together. These tiles are usually nailed to the roof structure.
- Overlapping – although overlapping tiles can also come in pairs, overlapping tiles do not have lips that must be nailed to the structure.
Two Styles of Clay Tile Roofing
In addition to the type clay roofing tiles, there are two essential styles common to both:
- Pantiles (Spanish Tiles) - these are tiles that are convex or rounded, usually seen in houses with Spanish tiles for roofing (sometimes called “S” tiles). Other tiles that belong to the pantile shape are Mission tiles (also known as Barrel tiles) and Roman and Greek tiles.
- Flat Tiles - these tiles can be completely plain and flat like roof slates that overlap one another, interlock at the top and sides, and attached with nail to hold them together. They have holes near the top for roofing to the nail sheathing.
Specialty Clay Roofing Tiles
- Field tiles - the tiles that cover the majority of the flat surface of the roof.
- Clay plugs - also called bird stops, which are intended to keep out snow and rain, and birds from nesting under the bottom row of curved tiles.
Many different patterns and designs can be made using a combination of both curved and flat tiles.
Why Choose Clay Tile Roofing?
- Clay roof tiles have been used throughout history; a proving material for roofing
- Clay roof tiles withstand harsh weather conditions, and are not affected by extremes of heat and cold.
- Clay roof tiles offer visual character
- Clay roof tiles are versatile, working with every architectural style
- Clay roof tiles are ideal for refurbishing projects as well as new building projects.
- Clay roof tiles perform well and last for a really long time, making them a cost-efficient roofing option.
- Clay roof tiles are fire proof
- Clay roof tiles are able to withstand harsh chemicals without degrading.
- Clay tiles are not prone to excessive mold growth