Pitched roofing: clay and concrete tiles
A guide to tile selection, fixing, ventilation and the warning signs of a failing covering.
This is general information, not a survey, design, legal or Building Control decision. The correct scope and standard depend on the property, work, date and regulatory route.
Clay and concrete tiles differ in profile, weight, colour variation, dimensions and weathering. The roof pitch, exposure, rafter and batten layout, tile manufacturer and fixing schedule must be compatible; one tile cannot be substituted by appearance alone.
Modern roofs commonly need mechanical fixing at prescribed locations, with extra restraint at verges, eaves, ridges and exposed edges. Check underlay, counter-battens where specified, eaves ventilation and dry-fix components as a complete system.
Look for slipped or cracked tiles, brittle mortar, daylight at junctions, blocked eaves ventilation and staining below valleys or flashings. A roof inspection from safe access is preferable to walking on tiles.