Concrete roof tiles are manufactured in a plant and the moulding involves a mixture of sand, cement and water. Before choosing to use a concrete tile roof, there are a few things you need to know. Also, consider the overall costs and the maintenance. Check out the following article to find out the pros and cons of using concrete roof tiles to protect your home.
The Features of Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles on average weigh 29.29 to 53.71 kg per square meter. This shows its weight is much greater than asphalt shingles. With this weight, a concrete tile roof requires extra reinforcement to the roof framing, especially for houses in the country of 4 seasons. This is to prevent the accumulation of heavy snow which can burden the roof of the house.
The durability of concrete roof tiles tends to be good because this type of roof tile can last up to 50 years. However, the installation will also affect its durability. Improper installation and poor maintenance can make the roof tile damaged due to water and deterioration. Take precautions and routine maintenance to make the roof tile durable.
Concrete roof tile can cost about $18 per square foot with a moderate pitch of decorative flat tiles. This cost does not include installation costs which typically reach $3 to $5 per square foot. Means for the first installation, concrete roof tile can cost about $3,500 per square foot. Next, homeowners need to prepare costs for routine maintenance.
The Maintenance of Concrete Roof Tiles
Due to the material, moss and mildew are easy to grow between concrete tiles. Especially in houses in humid areas. For this reason, homeowners need to clean the concrete tile roof with a pressure washer at least once a year. In addition, it is necessary to check to replace damaged tiles that can be dangerous if left for too long.
Compared to other types of roof tiles, concrete roof tiles are not fully waterproofed. The tiles can absorb about 13% of the total weight of the water that afflicts the tile. This absorption can cause cracking and water intrusion after some time. The water absorbed can be from air moisture, rain, or foliage water. This will be quite difficult during the rainy season.
Several things affect the concrete tile roof. Some of these reasons, for example, are a tree falling on a road, improper installation and foot traffic. If there is damage, immediately repair and replace the tiles to avoid damage to the underlayment and interior. In addition, aesthetically, the colour of the tiles fades easily to make the overall colour of the roof uneven.
Concrete tiles can make the roof look beautiful and classic. In addition, this type of tile can last up to 50 years. However, with its drawbacks, the use of concrete tiles is not very recommended. Maintenance that needs to be done may require a lot of money and is not comparable to the few benefits obtained. Consider using other types of tiles for the comfort and safety of your home.