What is the difference between concrete and terracotta tiles?
Concrete tiles are one of Australia’s most popular roofing materials. They offer value for money and a wide choice of colours. Terracotta tiles have been used for thousands of years and offer natural durability in both colour and quality.
Made to Australian Standard AS2049, tiles will withstand harsh climatic conditions and marine environments. They are salt-safe and frost-resistant, making them suitable for any location, including coastal areas.
Are roof tiles more durable than other roofing options?
Tiles outlast most other roofing options. Roof tile manufacturers generally offer warranties of 50 years, while some alternative roofing materials are only covered by warranty for 30 years.
What is the best roofing material to endure storms?
Tiles offer more resistance to wind suction than lighter weight materials such as metal sheeting. When damage is sustained during a storm, you only need to replace the individual damaged tiles. When a sheet metal roof is damaged, the entire sheet may need to be replaced, which can make for a costly repair bill.
Which roofing material is better at blocking out noise?
The density of tiles helps reduce external sound, such as aircraft and road noise and particularly rain. A tiled roof has a significantly higher sound reduction potential than common alternative roofing materials. Also, tiled roofs won’t creak and groan in reaction to changing temperatures.
I live near the coast. What is the best roofing solution for coastal conditions?
Tiles are ideal for coastal regions as they are suitable for the high salt content of marine environments. In the absence of rain, metal roofing may require hosing down in high salt concentration areas, which can pose difficulties with water restrictions.
Design facts
Different styles and colours can create a mood or make a statement, help you stand out in the crowd or blend in with the streetscape. It’s an entirely individual choice. In many cases, the design determines your roofing material selection. With our wide range of traditional and contemporary tiles and extensive choice of colours, you can combine different finishes and shades to create a roof that is as subtle or dramatic as your design. Since choosing the right tile can be a time-consuming process, expert product consultants are on hand at display centres to assist in finding the style and colour that will best create that individual look. Once tiles are installed there is little or no maintenance. Should a section of the roof ever be damaged, there is the added advantage of only needing to replace individual tiles.
Endurance and strength
Tiles are made to strict strength specifications in Australian and New Zealand Standards. Terracotta has been used for thousands of years for its incredible durability and beauty. The high density and strength of concrete ensure your tiles will be both waterproof and highly enduring. Concrete tiles do not become brittle or porous with old age. In fact, independent testing indicates that concrete tiles actually strengthen and become less porous over time.
Fire facts
Non-combustible materials such as concrete and terracotta provide excellent protection against radiant heat from bushfires. Tiled roofs have been tested and pass the requirements of AS3959-2009 for flame zone construction.
Dry facts
Even during severe downpours, tiles absorb negligible amounts of water. This absorption does not affect the tile’s weatherproofing performance. In fact, independent research indicates that tiles absorb less water with age.
Surface facts/ What is lichen?
In some climates, moss and lichen can grow on your tiles. They will not affect your tiles in any way, and can add character to your roof. However, if you prefer the clean lines of your tiles, both moss and lichen can be easily removed by a professional cleaning contractor.
Cosy facts
The density of concrete and terracotta roof tiles provides highly effective thermal insulation relative to other roofing materials.
Wind facts
The weight of your roofing material will contribute to its performance in high wind areas. Terracotta and concrete roof tiles outperform in this regard by offering more resistance to wind suction than lighter weight materials. The use of a flexible pointing material to fix ridge capping enhances security in high winds.
Thirsty facts
If you collect or are planning on using tank water, the water from a tiled roof is as drinkable as water from any other type of roof.
What is roof sarking?
Sarking is a type of foil used as insulation and can reflect up to 95% of radiant heat away from your roof space on a hot summer day. Sarking also helps in keeping dust out and protecting your home during bushfires and storms.
Why is concrete not as colour-fast as terracotta?
Concrete tiles are not glazed and like all exterior building materials they are subject to UV radiation and atmospheric pollutants. As a result they will weather with age to a matt finish and will lose some colour over time. Should you wish to restore them to their original, as-new look, depending on the material and method used, it is completely acceptable to spray a concrete roof. Terracotta tiles are kiln-fired with a vitreous coating that makes these tiles resistant to harsh UV exposure and pollutants.