For housebuilders and developers, selecting the right roof covering involves balancing budgets, planning requirements and kerb appeal. Marley highlights the key considerations between clay and concrete.
Appearance
Modern clay and concrete tiles come in a wide range of profiles, colours and styles. Clay tiles deliver traditional charm, but there are also many concrete options that replicate this aesthetic. Additionally, large format flat concrete tiles can be provided in designs that give the appearance of natural slate.
Location
The choice of roofing material also plays a big role in how a building blends with its surroundings. Since roofs were traditionally made with local materials, homes in a specific region are more likely to have roof coverings made of a certain material. Matching this is often important.
Cost-effectiveness
Generally speaking, concrete roof tiles are often seen as the more cost-effective solution. However, machine-made clay tiles can actually offer a cost-effective solution. Traditional handmade clay tiles often come with a higher price tag due to the extra labour and time required to produce them.
Durability and whole-life value
Clay and concrete tiles deliver comparable performance, with an expected service life of around 60 years. Additionally, when installed as part of Marley’s full roof system, they are both backed by a 15-year warranty.
Structural considerations
Both clay and concrete roof tiles can offer satisfactory load performance. However, it’s important the appropriate structural calculations are carried out by the project’s Structural Engineer to ensure the roof structure is suitable to withstand the design loading conditions.
Which material is right for your project?
If planners favour vernacular charm, clay may be the natural choice. When volume cost efficiency is paramount, concrete offers robust performance and broad design flexibility. Whatever you choose, working with a single systems supplier ensures compatibility across underlay, battens, fittings and renewables.
For more information, click here.
