Tile roofing is commonly associated with a distinctively
Southwestern or Mediterranean aesthetic. The limited aesthetic of traditional
tile roofing materials can deter some homeowners from taking advantage of the
benefits a tile roof can provide.
However, you don't have to miss out on the durability,
longevity, and insulation that a tile roof can offer if your home has an
architectural style other than Southwestern or Mediterranean. Modern clay tile
roofs have incredible aesthetic versatility, thanks to these three essential
factors.
1. Color Variations
Concrete and clay tiles are most often thought of as being a
terracotta or neutral beige color. Modern manufacturing processes have made it
possible to produce tile roofing that comes in a wide range of colors.
Manufacturers use one of two techniques to achieve color
variations in the tiles they produce: through-coloring or slurry-bonding.
A manufacturer can add an iron oxide into the clay before
the clay enters the molds in preparation for baking. This is a process known as
through-coloring. Through-colored tiles feature a subdued and understated color
that is consistent throughout the body of each tile.
Slurry-bonding produces tiles that have bright or
high-contrast coloring. A professional will apply a slurry that contains
concentrated pigments to the outer surfaces of a tile, which will bake on
during the slurry-bonding process.
The color variations created through modern manufacturing
techniques ensure that you will be able to find a tile roof that matches your
home's exterior color palette.
2. Glazing Options
Glazing can have a direct effect on the finished look of
clay tile roofing. Traditional roofing tiles are usually unglazed. Clay tiles
will retain their natural earthy tone when they are not glazed. The natural
coloring provides a rustic and timeworn aesthetic that you can pair with most
types of Southwestern and Mediterranean architecture.
Glazing offers the opportunity to use tile roofs on homes
with a more modern design aesthetic. Clay tiles can be semi-glazed for a
polished look, or treated with a full glaze to give your home an ultra-sleek
and modern aesthetic.
A professional will need to treat the unglazed tiles with a
protective sealant that can protect them against water absorption. Glazed tiles
don't have a sealant. The glaze itself acts as a protective barrier against
moisture damage.
3. Shape Variations
Modern tile roofing comes in a wide range of interesting
shapes. The shape of tile you select can significantly alter the appearance of
your home's exterior after the installation is complete.
You can pair flat, fluted, and interlocking tile shapes with
almost any architectural design style. Roman tiles feature either a single or a
double roll and lend a European flair to any home.
A mold is used to form modern clay or cement tiles. The
shape of these molds can vary based on your unique preferences and the style of
your home. Some manufacturers are even willing to offer custom shapes for
homeowners willing to invest a bit more money in the clay tile roof that will
perfectly complement their home.
The shape variations available in the modern tile roofing market
allow you to install a tile roof that will add architectural interest to your
home while providing you with maximum protection against moisture over time.
A tile roof can offer a wide range of benefits that you may
find appealing.
It doesn't matter if it's the durability, impact-resistance,
or low maintenance associated with clay tiles that draws you to this type of
roofing, you can easily find modern roof tiles that will complement the
architectural style and color of your home.
Contact
Cal Roofing Systems Inc. to learn more about installing tile roofing on your
home.
