Did you know that today, concrete is the world’s most widely used man-made material? Over the past 50 years, concrete roof tiles specifically have continued to increase in popularity and have rapidly emerged as the top choice in many settings.
Dan Hancox, Business Support Manager at Russell Roof Tiles explores the advantages of concrete roof tiles and how they have transformed the roofing industry.
Russell Roof Tiles is one of the leading manufacturers of concrete derivatives in the UK today. The company plays a significant role in the sector, creating market leading products, developing high-quality concrete roof tiles that withstand the test of time.
Durability and Longevity
Concrete roof tiles have established themselves as a mainstay due to their durability and longevity, as well as their versatility. Manufactured using state of the art technology, concrete now offers a level of strength and resilience that is far in advance of roof tiles made from clay or slate.
With a lifespan of over 50 years, concrete roof tiles provide an investment that pays off over time, reducing the need for frequent roof repairs and replacements.
Versatility
One of the standout features of concrete is its versatility. Available in a wide range of profiles and colours, concrete tiles offer many creative possibilities. Whether replicating the look of natural traditional clay, slate or stone tiles or offering a contemporary appearance, concrete can seamlessly blend with any architectural style, providing a huge choice.
From a design perspective, concrete tiles can be used on different roof shapes, from hipped, mansard or traditional gable to gable styles, even incorporating dormers. Many tile designs can also be laid in a variety of options, such as half or quarter bonded to give a distinctly different look.
Energy Efficiency
Concrete roof tiles can also contribute to improved energy efficiency in buildings. With advanced technologies and innovative designs, these tiles provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing heat transfer.
Russell Roof Tiles’ commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability in its manufacturing processes, means the business now carries a certification for carbon reduction, resulting in products becoming a more environmentally friendly roofing solution.
Usability
Concrete tiles are often favoured by contractors because they are easier to manage and install. Compared to their ‘natural’ counterparts, concrete tiles can be less costly to fit than slate tiles for example, with fewer tiles per metre squared. They are also less prone to breakages, resulting in less waste. In addition to being easy to handle, when installed correctly, concrete options will also withstand the harshest of weather.
Low maintenance
With their durability and resistance to fading and deterioration, concrete roof tiles also require minimal maintenance throughout their lifespan.
Unlike other materials that may need regular cleaning, painting, or sealing, concrete tiles maintain their appearance and structural integrity with little effort. This saves time and money, making concrete roof tiles an attractive choice for those looking for low-maintenance options.
Sustainability
As product development has evolved, the evidence shows that in production concrete tiles can offer an increasingly sustainable option for roofers. There is often an argument when looking at sustainability that a material seen as “naturally” occurring is more sustainable than that of a manufactured product. When compared with traditional clay roof tiles though, concrete tile manufacturing requires considerably less energy usage during production.
The difference is largely because of the extensive power required for clay tiles, in a 1,000-degree kiln for up to 48 hours. In comparison, concrete tiles are cured at a much lower temperature and for only a short amount of time. (This something that Russell Roof Tiles is investing heavily in at its new £18.5 manufacturing unit). This means an energy saving of up to 30 per cent vs clay tiles can be achieved when comparing the curing process.
Concrete tiles have a much lower embodied carbon as well. This means clay tiles require a greater energy input throughout their production process before the final product is compete.
Whilst the construction sector continues its commitment to sustainability, Russell Roof Tiles has maintained its investment in production processes which are efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption and waste.
As well as production processes, concrete tiles also fit the bill with the current interest in solar energy. Concrete can work with either PV tiles integrated into the roof or mounted on top, improving the sustainable credentials of the roof.
As technological advances continue at pace, concrete roof tile manufacturing continues to deliver innovation and choice like never before.
