Since concrete roof tiles can offer years of protection to the structures they are installed on, they are a popular and well-trusted roofing material that can be found on millions of properties across the world. Concrete tiles that may imitate the appearance of several roofing types have developed from what started as thin concrete planks. They provide the flexibility to personalise the look of your home with a wide selection of colours and profiles.
Like other forms of concrete, concrete roof tiles strengthen with time because sunlight causes them to solidify. Many homeowners wonder how long concrete tiles last and whether it is the best option for their roofs. Well, their average lifespan depends on a variety of factors that affect their appearance and durability.
How Long Do Concrete Roof Tiles Last?
If properly maintained, these tiles typically have a 50-year lifespan. The reason why they last so long is because they contain extra water locks, or interlocking ribs, on their edges to keep water out. Sand, cement, and water are used to make these tiles, which are then heated and compressed to a high temperature.
As is the case with any roofing option, especially domestic concrete, regular upkeep will greatly extend the life of your roof. This degree of maintenance begins at the time of installation, therefore it’s critical to make sure that your roof tiles are installed professionally by a qualified roofing specialist who utilises premium supplies and underlayment. Why? Because it:
- Keeps your tiles firmly in place during wind
- Protects against moisture intrusion and excessive weathering
Additionally, they should be examined on an ongoing basis, particularly following storms, to see if any maintenance has to be done.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Concrete Roof Tiles
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Weatherproofing
Despite their fundamental strength, they can be harmed over time by repeated exposure to bad weather. But, this can be greatly reduced by using proper weatherproofing. One way to stop water infiltration, which is one of the main causes of tile deterioration, is to apply a high-quality sealant to concrete tiles. It can also shield them from:
- Pollution
- Salt
- UV rays
- Other environmental elements
Remember, concrete can erode more quickly in coastal places due to sea salt, while pollution in urban environments can react chemically with concrete to weaken it. This necessitates the application of a weatherproof coating to maintain its integrity. By reflecting or absorbing damaging UV rays, weatherproofing coatings with UV-resistant qualities can avert these problems while preserving the aesthetics of the tiles.
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Efflorescence
One prevalent condition that influences concrete roof tiles and can significantly shorten their lifespan is efflorescence. In this phenomenon, a white, powdery residue is left behind as the concrete’s water-soluble salts move to the surface and crystallise. Moisture is usually what triggers this process, dissolving the salts and raising them to the surface when the water evaporates, which ultimately causes:
- Cracks
- Other types of damage
Furthermore, it can hasten the aging process of the tiles, making them less resilient to external stresses and more brittle. The concrete’s surface layer may gradually deteriorate as a result of this cyclical process. This leaves it more vulnerable to weathering and erosion. As water expands and contracts in response to temperature variations, the moisture present in these fissures culminates in considerable damage in places subject to freeze-thaw cycles. This can:
- End up in spalling
- Fracture fragments of concrete
- Impair the protective qualities of the tile
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Underlayment
Underlayment, which acts as an extra barrier between the roof deck and the tiles, has several advantages that prolong the life of the roofing system. One of its main purposes is to serve as a moisture barrier if any of the tiles break or come loose. This is especially vital in regions with high levels of precipitation or snowfall, as water seepage can cause substantial structural harm. By acting as a second line of defence against moisture, a high-quality underlayment helps avoid problems like:
- Wood rot
- Mould growth
- Other types of water damage that can eventually weaken the integrity of the roof structure
Moreover, underlayment can also offer protection against wind uplift, which poses an imminent threat to the stability of concrete roof tiles during extreme weather. It lessens the possibility that tiles will be lifted or ripped away by severe winds by anchoring the tiles to the roof deck more tightly.
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Maintenance
Regular inspections are an important part of maintenance. Through these inspections, professional roofers or individuals can find small problems earlier and fix them before they become larger ones. For instance, if you identify and replace damaged or cracked tiles timely, you can successfully:
- Hinder water intrusion into the roof deck
- Prevent the development of mould and structural damage
A further critical maintenance chore that can significantly impact the life of concrete tiles is roof cleaning. When the tiles are exposed to shadow or moisture, moss, algae, and lichen may eventually grow on their surface. The presence of these organic growths on the roof can:
- Cause more water absorption and freeze-thaw damage
- Detract from the roof’s visual appeal
Hence, cleaning helps in retaining the beauty and sturdiness of the tiles. Plus, it is vital to use the right cleaning agents and techniques to prevent breaking the tiles; high-pressure washing should be avoided as it can degrade the concrete’s surface.
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Weight
When it comes to roofing materials, concrete tiles are recognised for being significantly heavier than:
- Metal panels
- Asphalt shingles
Although this weight has several benefits, it also demands a solid and well-built roof structure to be supported. Over time, structural problems may arise if the underlying roof structure is not sufficiently strengthened to endure the weight of the concrete tiles. Under constant stress, overloaded roof structures may:
- Sag
- Break
- Collapse
Additionally, their weight can also affect how well they function and how long they last under severe weather. Even though the weight resists strong winds, it can be problematic in places where there is a lot of snowfall. Snow accumulation elevates the weight of the roof and can exceed the structure’s load-bearing capability if it is not adequately taken into consideration during the design stage. Any structural flaws already present may become worse due to this additional weight, which could result in a sudden roof failure or catastrophic destruction.
Takeaway
So, finding out that concrete roof tiles can have their lifespan significantly increased with routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections should not come as a surprise. Dealing with a professional can allay worries and guarantee that any required adjustment is made so that your roof will keep protecting your family and belongings for many years to come.
If you want to hire an expert to assess the condition and longevity of your domestic concrete roof tiles, it’s time to eliminate your worries and contact our specialists at Ready Mix Concrete London! As a dedicated team with years of experience, we offer the best suggestions along with the highest-quality concrete to ensure your safety and peace of mind. For further guidance, scroll through our Instagram page @pro_mixconcrete and learn more about our services!
