With numerous choices of roofing materials available, it can be hard to decide on the perfect choice for your housing project. But whether you’re aiming for a traditional look or a more modern finish, I can assure you there’ll be a roof tile on the market to meet your needs. In this article, I will be discussing the different types of roofing materials in the market.
Roof tiles are mainly made to keep the rain out of the home. Traditionally, many roofing tiles were made from clay or slate, or terracotta products, but nowadays roofing tiles are mainly made from tinted concrete, metals, and plastics. Roofing tiles have a variety of shapes: flat, curved, interlocking or fluted, and many styles. Below is a breakdown of the different types of roofing materials so that you can understand of what each type entails.
Concrete roof tiles
They are the least expensive roof tile options in the market. Concrete tiles look like slate tiles and clay tiles and are very attractive. Concrete is too heavy and needs a roofing structure that can withhold the weight of tile. The lifespan of a concrete tile is expected to be within 50-60 years. Concrete tiles are fire-resistant; this minimizes the huge damage that fire could do to your house.
Clay tiles
Clay tiles were originally made by hand, sun-dried, and used on the roofs. In the modern days, clay tiles are made through machines processes to produce a finished product. They are very heavy and risk breaking easily if not carefully handled. They guarantee a life span exceeding 30 years. They are water-resistant and come in different colors such as brown, red and blue depending on the degree of kiln atmosphere.
Metal tiles
Metal tiles are made from zinc, steel, copper and aluminum. Their production is very energy-intensive. The tiles are of lightweight hence easy to install. They can be recycled when their life span comes to an end. Metal tiles repairs are very difficult to carry out in case of dent occurrence. Check roofing tiles prices in Kenya.
Slate tiles
Slate tiles are very pleasing to the eyes because of their beautiful appearance. Slate is a fire-resistant and durable roofing material. Slate tiles are very heavy hence require a roof structure that can support its extra weight. They are also very difficult to handle and expensive to purchase and install.
Solar roof tiles
These are electricity-producing roof tiles that are linked to batteries that draw power from the sun. Solar roof tiles help to reduce the homeowner’s electricity bill. Solar roof tiles are available at extremely high prices and they require a professional to install, repair, and maintain
Asphalt shingles
These are the most common and most reasonably priced roofing materials.
It is wise to use the bituminous shingles due to their high bitumen content as well as the fiberglass reinforcement t preventing heat gain. Shingles have a coat of naturally extracted granules that prevent any damage that may be as a result of UV rays.
Conclusion
Whether you’re constructing a new home or renovating, it is vital to choose durable roofing materials, of low maintenance, sustainable and appealing to the eyes.
