What are the best tiles for my low-pitch roof?
If you are currently replacing your roof, it can be difficult to know what the best types of tiles for low-pitched roofs are. If you are inexperienced and not sure what to look for or are finding it difficult to compare the different pros and cons of each type of tile that is suitable for your low-pitch roof, we have created this article to discuss the benefits of each material and what type of tile you should pick for your next roof renovation so that you have more of an idea on what you need as well as the tiles that you shouldn’t use on low pitch roofs.
Low-pitched roofs are roofs that have a slight slope or angle meaning the roof doesn’t have a steep incline compared to roofs with higher pitches. Typically, the roof pitch on low-pitched roofs is between 10° and 35°, and they usually require a minimum pitch of 10° for effective water drainage. Low-pitched roofs are common in modern architecture and are often used for domestic extensions and similar builds where a lower roofline helps preserve internal space. They often provide a contemporary aesthetic and can work well with energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels.
Due to the low pitch of these roofs, there are only specific tiles that can be installed. Compared to the typical steep roof pitches, some materials such as asphalt shingles and wood shingles are not recommended to be used on low-pitch roofs. Due to their design, the low pitch of the roof can lead them to slide off or not being secure on the roof, and while some options can be more cost effective because they use less material during construction and installation, proper installation still matters.
Fortunately, as the leading roof specialists in Melksham, we have come across our fair share of different roofing materials and tiles that are suitable for low-pitched roofs. Therefore, we have a good understanding of the best roof tiles for low-pitched roofs and the ones that aren’t ideal. Throughout this article, we will go through three of the best types of tiles for your low-pitched roof.
If you are looking for new roofing tiles for your low-pitched roof in the Melksham, Bath or Bristol areas, look no further than A L King Roofing. We are the leading roofing merchants in the Wiltshire area providing a selection of high-quality roofing tiles from leading manufacturers. Visit our merchant centre in Melksham or call us on 01225 705918.
| Tile type | Minimum pitch | Lifespan | Key benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | From 15° (specialist low-pitch tiles from 12.5° | 45 to 75 years | Heavy and stable, holding firm on exposed, low-slope roofs |
| Clay | From around 17.5° for interlocking pantiles | Up to 100 years | Very low water absorption and naturally fire-resistant |
| Natural slate | 20° minimum (per NHBC/BS 5534) | Up to almost 200 years | Longest lifespan and low maintenance |
Three best types of tiles that are suitable for low pitch roofs
The three best types of tiles that are suitable for low-pitched roofs include:
- Concrete Roof Tiles
- Clay Roof Tiles
- Natural Slate Tiles
1. Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles are one of the best types of roofing tile you can use on your low-pitch roof. They are made from a mixture of cement, sand and water and hardened through a curing process, and low-pitched roofs can require fewer materials overall, helping save money on manufacture and installation while reducing overall cost, resulting in a long-lasting and durable roofing material for your low-pitch roof.
Some of the benefits of choosing concrete roof tiles for your low-pitch roof include:
Durability
Concrete tiles are known to be extremely durable with a lifespan of 45 to 75 years. They can withstand harsh weather conditions including heavy rain, wind, sleet, snow and hail. This trait of being extremely durable is important for roofs with lower pitches because they can be more exposed to the elements.
Water Resistant Properties
Concrete tiles have a low water absorption rate which is crucial for low-pitched roofs. It helps prevent rainwater from getting into the property and supports water drainage, reducing the chance of leaks even when runoff is slower due to the low slope. In a low-pitch roof system, waterproofing often relies on a continuous roofing membrane to reduce water ingress and help water drain away effectively. Eaves are common leak points, and poor drainage can leave standing water that may damage underlay and battens over time.
Heavy Weight & Strong Stability
Concrete tiles are fairly heavy in weight meaning they are easier to keep in place. This stability is crucial for roofs with low slopes where the force of wind and weather may affect and knock lighter materials from your roof.
2. Clay Roof Tiles
Clay roof tiles are another popular choice for people looking to add roofing tiles to their low-pitched roofs. They are made from natural clay that is moulded into shape and then hardened. Clay roof tiles have been used for centuries due to their different capabilities and are still just as good for your low-pitched roof as they were hundreds of years ago! While roofing felt is a cost-effective option for low-pitch roofs with its own benefits, clay is often chosen when appearance and lifespan matter more.
Extreme water resistance
Clay tiles have low water absorption properties meaning they are excellent roof tiles to protect your property from water infiltration even during harsh weather and extreme storms. These characteristics are vital for low-pitch roofs where water runoff might be slower, reducing the risk of roof leaks and protecting your property.
Long Lasting
When properly installed and maintained, clay roofing tiles can last up to 100 years on average. This longevity is ideal for those with low-pitched roofs because accessing and replacing tiles on these types of roofs can be more difficult than for those with higher pitches.
Fire resistant
Clay tiles are known to be inherently fire-resistant, offering an added layer of safety to your property and providing you with peace of mind that your property is protected.
3. Natural Slate Tiles
Natural slate tiles are another type of popular roof tile that is suitable for use on low-pitch roofs, though standard roofing with slates and tiles commonly follows the British Standard minimum pitch of 20°. They are made from fine-granite metamorphic rock that has been quarried and cut into thin, flat pieces. Other low-pitch options include EPDM and TPO membranes, while some metal roofing sheets can be installed at pitches as low as 4°. These types of tiles offer many benefits including:
Long Lifespan
Natural slate can last up to almost 200 years due to its incredible properties. This long lifespan is beneficial for low-pitch roofs where accessing and replacing tiles can be more challenging due to the angle of the roof. Not only this but the long lifespan helps the natural slate tiles look more aesthetically appealing for years to come.
Water Resistance
Much like the other two types of tiles mentioned on this list, natural slate also has very low water absorption, making it an excellent choice for roofs with lower pitches. Its inherent water-resistant properties help prevent water penetration even when the roof has a gentle slope, and on low-pitched roofs suitable installation details such as the single lapping method can improve water drainage and reduce the risk of leaks.
Low Maintenance
Slate requires minimal maintenance, contributing to its suitability for low-pitch roofs where accessing the roof for repairs or maintenance might be more difficult.
Choosing the Best Tiles for Your Low-Pitched Roof
You should now have a good idea about the different types of tiles that are perfect for your flat-pitched roof. Not only are all these materials long-lasting and offer incredible protection for your property but they also look stunning and will fit the characteristics of many different properties whether they are more dated or more modern.
If you are looking for new roofing tiles for your property in Melksham, Wiltshire or the surrounding areas, visit our roofing merchant centre in Melksham. We offer a wide range of different roofing materials and products for your roof.
If you live in the Melksham, Bath or Bristol area, here at A L King Roofing, we provide a reliable, affordable and high-quality roof repair service. Originally starting out in 1979, A L King Roofing has over 40 years of experience in the roofing industry from repairs and new roof installations.
Furthermore, we even provide a selection of high-quality roofing materials such as different roofing shingles and replacement shingles which you can find in our roofing merchants centre in Melksham. Speak to a member of the team on 01225 705 918 and discuss all your roofing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which of these three tiles lasts the longest?
Natural slate has the longest lifespan of the three, lasting up to almost 200 years, followed by clay at up to 100 years and concrete at 45 to 75 years.
2. Why aren’t asphalt or wood shingles recommended for low-pitch roofs?
Because of their design, the low pitch of the roof can lead them to slide off or not be secure on the roof. A common misconception is that extra overlap alone fixes this, but if rafters exceed the recommended maximum length, increase roof pitch by 1° for every half metre distance of added rafter length to help long rafters drain properly.
3. Where can I buy roofing tiles for a low-pitch roof near Melksham?
You can view a range of roofing tiles at the A L King Roofing merchant centre in Melksham, serving the Melksham, Bath and Bristol areas. Call the team on 01225 705918.