Concrete roof tiles - everything you need to know
How long do concrete roof tiles last?
Concrete roof tiles have a very long lifespan. Here at Marley, we offer a 15-year system warranty on our complete roof systems, and the roof tiles are generally expected to have a lifespan of 60 years or more.Tiling a roof with concrete roof tiles
Installing concrete roof tiles begins with the background materials. First, the selected roof underlay is laid over the rafters, followed by the installation of the roof battens. The correct batten spacing will depend on the roof construction and the tiles being installed. Always refer to the roof tile manufacturer's information for specific guidance.
Once the background materials are in place, other elements may need to be installed, such as integrated solar panels, eaves systems, batten end clips, roof ridge brackets and the ridge batten. With these components in place, the roof tiles can be installed.
Concrete interlocking tiles should be installed from right to left wherever possible and up in columns to minimise foot traffic. The tiles should be mechanically fixed in line with the specification provided by the manufacturer and where a fixing specification does not exist, the fixing requirements should conform to BS 5534. Care should be taken to ensure the tiles are laid within the parameters of the interlocks, so, not too tight that they ride up, and not too stretched that they pulled out of the channels.
Kevin explains the installation process: “Start from the eaves and work upwards in rows, ideally working to pre-struck chalk/red lines to keep the tiling straight. Ensure each tile is properly placed and aligned with the tiles around it, with an adequate overlap to direct water away from the roof.”
Once the top course of roof tiles has been installed, matching concrete ridge tiles can be fixed to the ridge batten and the verge system can be installed.
How are concrete ridge and hip tiles fixed to the roof?
BS 5534:2014+A2:2018, the code of practice for slating and tiling for pitched roof and vertical cladding, makes it clear that the tensile strength of mortar cannot be relied upon as the sole means of securing a roof covering.
Kevin Taylor, Training and Technical Support Manager at Marley, explains that instead of using mortar or cement to secure the cement roof tiles in place, mechanical fixings such as nails or clips are used to attach the tiles to the roofing battens.
“Dry fixing is a safer and more reliable way to attach concrete tiles to the roof than bedding in mortar. Installation is also easier and faster, and the finished roof is less likely to experience weather-related damage,” he says.
Can damaged concrete roof tiles be repaired?
If you notice a damaged concrete roof tile, the best solution is to get it replaced, rather than repaired.
“The only way to properly deal with a tile that is broken or cracked is to replace it, ideally with a like-for-like product from the same manufacturer to ensure the interlocks work as they should and that the tile fits properly. Normally the name of the manufacturer can be found on the back of the tile.”, he advises. “Attempts at repairs using adhesives or patches are unlikely to last and could lead to more significant roof damage,” he adds. “A good tip for anyone wanting to make sympathetic repairs is to take a few existing tiles out of the back of the roof and use those to make the repairs on the front. Any new or salvaged tiles which might not quite match for shade and colour can then be installed and hidden at the back of the roof to fill in any gaps.”
How to replace a concrete roof tile
Replacing a concrete roof tile requires removing the broken tile and replacing it with a new one. This typically actually requires removing several tiles to expose the nails or clips.
For homeowners who are skilled DIYers, you may be able to replace the broken roof tile yourself. We offer more guidance in our guide to roof tile replacement and repair and in our Roofing Sitework Guide. However, as with any project involving concrete roof tiles, we generally recommend leaving the repairs to the professionals, as working at height can be dangerous, and you don't want to risk damaging the rest of your roof.
How to remove moss from concrete roof tiles
Concrete roof tiles rarely require any cleaning or maintenance, other than to ensure debris is removed from the roof. Moss and lichen appear naturally on tiled roofs, and it is not usually necessary to remove it unless it is blocking the gutters and outlets, is contributing to water coming through the tiles, or for aesthetic reasons. If you want moss or lichen removed from your roof, Kevin recommends hiring professionals to carry out the work.
He explains that, in most cases, they will normally use a toxic wash to remove the moss or lichen from the concrete roof tile. This solution must be kept away from people and animals and disposed of properly, which is why it’s best left to the professionals. They will also be trained to work safely at height.
“We do not recommend using pressure washers to clean concrete roof tiles, as the high-pressure water jets can crack or damage the roof tiles and force large volumes of potentially damaging water and debris into the roof structure,” he warns.
Take a look at Marley’s range of concrete roof tiles
As experts in roofing materials, Marley offers a wide range of concrete interlocking roof tiles in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours to meet any design brief. Whether you’re looking for a smooth slate lookalike for a modern home, an attractive alternative to clay tiles on a traditional country house, you’re sure to find something suitable.
If you’d like to see and feel the quality of our concrete interlocking roof tiles for yourself, you can request some samples through our sample service or get in touch to discuss any upcoming roofing projects that require direction or support.