Tile and Slate Roofing Options
Tiles are often made from clay and generally have a long lifespan. Unlike other roofing material, clay tiles do not rot or burn. They also require very little maintenance. Roof tiles are available is a range of colours and styles. Modern tiles are typically made in kilns and their colour is permanent. In some cases, only the surface is stained or painted and the colour can fade over time. Although they are low maintenance and attractive, they are heavy and sometimes need extra support from the roofing structure. Since clay tiles are fragile, they can break and crack over time. Installing tile roofs can be more expensive than other roofing because of the quality of the material and the relatively more complex installation required.
Concrete is also used for tile roofing. Concrete tiles are made from fibre-reinforced cement. Each tile is typically coated with a plastic or metal material to provide added protection from the elements. They are available in a selection of colours and styles. Concrete tiles are a lightweight alternative to clay tiles. As a result, the structure of an existing roof typically does not need to be altered to handle extra weight. Generally, they are durable and require little maintenance. They also provide good protection from fire and are resistant to rotting. Depending on how they are finished, concrete tiles can look like wood, clay, slate and other materials.
Slate roofs are made from slivers of rock that resemble shingles. They often deliver a more luxurious finish as well as a natural look. Slide roofs are available in a variety of colours, sizes and styles. They can also be designed in a variety of patterns, allowing you to create a unique roof design. Like tile roofs, slate has a long lifespan and provides excellent protection from fire. They are also low maintenance and resistant to rotting. Similar to tiles, slate roofs can be heavy and will require extra support. Slate can also break or crack over time, which will require repairs or replacements. Slate roofs like tile roofs are difficult to walk on since the material is breakable. This makes maintenance work such as cleaning guttering relatively more difficult.
Choosing a Roofing Contractor
When having work done on your tile or slate roof, ask potential contractors for proof of their qualifications. Using a contractor registered with a competent person scheme means roofing work does not need to be checked by a local council or building inspector. Since there are no building control fees, you also save money. You also get the peace of mind that the contractor has the qualifications and training necessary to safely and efficiently work on your tile or slate roof.
Reputable contractors are often members of a roofing trade association or organisation. Membership in one of these bodies means that they adhere to certain professional standards related to safety, quality and service. Roofing associations and organisations include the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), which represents more than half of the industry and certifies contractors as Competent Roofers. The NFRC maintains a strict code of conduct and its members offer high standards of quality and service. Other bodies that tile and slate roofers might be members of include the Institute of Roofing (IoR) and the Confederation of Roofing Contractors (CRC).
You should also ask potential contractors for proof of insurance to ensure their work is covered. Also, check references and look at online reviews to assess the quality of their work and service. Get at least three quotes from different roofing contractors to get an idea of a fair price for the work you need on your roof. Whether you are having your roof replaced or repaired, you should also make sure that the contractor has extensive experience working on tile or slate roofs.