Ceramic roof tiles are among the heaviest roofing materials available on the market. For anyone planning to build or renovate a roof, understanding how the weight of the tiles affects the building’s structure and the choice of roofing material is essential. This guide covers the key aspects of ceramic roof tile weight and its impact on roof construction.
Roof Weight and Structural Load
Since the roof structure must support a specified load according to the building design, it’s crucial not to make changes without consulting an architect. Every project is unique, and an architect will recommend the appropriate type of roofing based on its weight.
Homeowners do not need to know the exact load-bearing capacity of the roof, but they should avoid selecting tiles heavier than specified in the project. In many cases, lighter alternatives are possible.
Additionally, the roof structure must also withstand other loads, such as snow and wind. According to the State Fire Service, one cubic meter of fluffy snow weighs up to 200 kg, while wet snow can weigh between 700–800 kg. Roofs in snowy regions often have steep slopes to facilitate snow sliding.
How Tile Weight Affects Its Properties
The weight of ceramic tiles influences not only the structural load but also their thermal and acoustic performance. Heavier roof coverings, such as the SIMPLA or KODA ceramic tiles, provide better insulation compared to lighter materials like metal sheets or asphalt shingles. Their mass helps retain heat inside the building, reducing heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer.
Weight also contributes to sound insulation. Heavier tiles effectively dampen external noise, creating a quieter indoor environment. Moreover, ceramic tiles’ weight improves resistance to wind, rain, and snow. Their solid construction makes them less prone to damage and protects the interior from harsh weather, making ceramic roofing a long-term investment that can last for decades.
Typical Weight of Ceramic Roof Tiles
Ceramic roof tiles are relatively heavy, with an average weight of around 50 kg/m². However, lighter models (around 42 kg/m², e.g., BALANCE) and heavier models (up to 65 kg/m², e.g., KLASSIK Lenti) are also available.
For comparison, other roofing materials weigh as follows:
- Asphalt sheet: ~3 kg/m²
- Asphalt shingle: 8–11 kg/m²
- Metal roof tile: 6–8 kg/m²
- Wooden shingle: 15–30 kg/m²
- Slate: 30–40 kg/m²
- Concrete roof tile: ~50 kg/m²
- Thatch: up to 100 kg/m²
The weight of ceramic tiles mainly depends on the raw materials used, with clay being the primary component. Wet clay can weigh up to 2 tons per cubic meter. Tile weight varies by model and collection, with individual tiles ranging from 1.8 to over 5 kg per piece, and coverage per square meter weighing between 42.4 and 64.8 kg.
Choosing ceramic roof tiles, taking into account their weight and structural implications, ensures a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and energy-efficient roof for years to come.
Choosing the Right Ceramic Roof Tile
Selecting ceramic roof tiles requires careful consideration of both the material weight and the specifics of the building structure. Understanding the weight of ceramic tiles and the loads imposed on the roof helps in making informed decisions during construction or renovation. Always consult an architect to choose the right solution for your home.
Our ceramic roof tiles come with an extended warranty of up to 50 years, providing additional peace of mind.