One of the most important decisions when designing and building a house concerns the type of roof tile. Today, most people choose between two of the most popular forms: flat or profiled. These tiles differ not only in appearance but also in technical parameters that directly affect the building’s performance over time. Therefore, this choice should be made carefully, based on thorough research and consultations with an architect, roofer, or roofing supplier.
Flat or Profiled – Aesthetic Considerations
Every home has its own architectural style, which, together with neighboring buildings, creates a visual effect that should be harmonious and aligned with good architectural principles. The choice of ceramic or concrete roof tiles should be planned during the design stage, ensuring compliance with local building regulations.
Flat tiles, such as the ceramic SIMPLA or concrete KAPSTADT, work particularly well on modern houses with simple, unbroken roof structures, free from historical decorative elements. Large, flat roof surfaces emphasize the minimalist form of the building and give it a contemporary, stylish appearance.
On the other hand, profiled tiles, such as ceramic TITANIA or concrete GÖTEBORG, are better suited for traditional homes with complex, sprawling roof structures that may include integrated balconies, dormers, or other architectural details. Using these tiles can also visually enlarge smaller buildings and enhance their overall form. These principles apply to both new constructions and renovations. Color is less critical, as both flat and profiled ceramic or concrete tiles are available in a wide range of shades, making it easy to select the optimal option.
Flat or Profiled - Cost and Installation
Modern flat tiles are generally slightly more expensive than profiled ones, but this is often offset by faster installation. Both ceramic and concrete tiles require precision and professionalism during installation, but with flat tiles, these factors are particularly important. Their shape demands careful, consistent placement – even minor irregularities can disrupt the desired aesthetic of a perfectly flat roof surface that visually aligns with the building’s walls.
Profiled tiles are more forgiving, as their complex shape can mask minor installation imperfections. However, their longer installation time can increase labor costs. Additionally, profiled tiles are significantly heavier than flat ones, which must be considered during the roof structure design.
Flat or Profiled – Insulation and Weather Resistance
Assuming both types are made from the same material, flat tiles provide better thermal insulation because their effective sun-exposed surface is smaller in summer, and heat is less readily transferred inside. Over time, this can result in noticeable energy savings, especially important with rising heating costs.
Flat roof tiles also have an advantage in moisture resistance. Rainwater flows off them freely, cleaning the roof surface, while profiled roofs may trap moisture in crevices, promoting unwanted plant or fungus growth. Profiled tiles, however, offer better sound insulation. Regarding other properties, such as vapor permeability, both types perform similarly, though the profiled shape enhances ventilation, helping remove moisture and heat.
Flat or Profiled Roof Tile - Longevity and Maintenance
The durability of roof tiles depends more on the material and manufacturing technology than on their shape. Differences are relatively minor. Profiled ceramic and concrete tiles are slightly more resistant to mechanical damage and deformation. They also better withstand strong winds and heavy rainfall, which can be important in mountainous or coastal regions.
Flat tiles excel in ease of maintenance, as rain naturally cleans dust, leaves, and other debris from the surface, and snow tends to slide off more easily in winter. They require less frequent and detailed maintenance than profiled tiles.
Both solutions have advantages that should be considered when planning a house. Before making a final decision, it is advisable to seek advice not only from professional experts, such as roofers, but also from other users, which is relatively easy today thanks to online forums. One thing is certain – regardless of the shape, choosing either ceramic or concrete roof tiles is a solid solution.