TERRACOTTA ROOFS MELBOURNE
Bring the Mediterranean to you.
Meditteranean or Spanish-style properties use Terracotta shingles on their roofs to give off that vibe. Terracotta shingles are made out of clay, baked in very high temperatures to make it porous and water-resistant. Roofs made with Terracotta Shingles are very durable, highly weatherable, resistant to heat and UV rays, and a sight to behold!
TERRACOTTA SHINGLES FOR YOUR ROOF
Roof Shingles are rectangular or flat- shaped materials that are laid in an overlapping manner from bottom to top in order to cover the roof. These are installed on roofs primarily to keep the water out of the roof. Shingles are made from different kinds of materials: slate, metal, concrete, composite synthetic material, wood, and clay. They also come in different shapes, colours, and sizes, which gives you the opportunity to exercise creative freedom in all your projects. Using shingles has their benefits, too. Shingles reflect the sun’s rays and help cool down homes in hot climates, resist fire and algae growth, and can even do well in winter because snow easily falls off the roof. One of the oldest and most common shingles used are clay shingles. Clay shingles date back to around 10,000 BC in China and have been used for roofs.
What is a Terracotta Shingle?
Terracotta means “Cooked Earth” in Italian. Terracotta Shingles are roofing materials that are produced from clay, molded into rectangular shapes to resemble tiles, and are baked in an oven to finish. Exposing it to high temperatures transforms the clay into a porous and water-resistant material, which shield properties from various environmental climate and external elements. It is available in two different shapes: rounded and flat. Though both are good for keeping rainwater out of the roof, rounded shingles are used more in wet areas while flat shingles are used in drier areas. Terracotta’s characteristic coloration is due to the iron content of the clay from which it is formed. Terracotta comes in a variety of colors, ranging from the well-known reddish-brown to pinks, grays, and even yellows.
What are the advantages of Terracotta Shingles?
Locally available
Clay is a kind of material that can be found almost anywhere and everywhere. It comes from one of the most abundant resources on earth – soil.
Fire resistant
Most Terracotta shingles are class A- fire rated or hold the highest rating of fire resistance. This gives protection for your home from ash and embers from fire.
Impact- Resistant
Baking the clay results in the strength of the Terracotta. Terracotta is strong because it can resist damages caused by external forces effectively. A lot of Terracotta shingles hold a class 3 and 4 impact rating.
Wind- Resistant
Terracotta shingles are heavy by nature. Its weight and the way it is layered protects your properties from strong winds of up to 150mph.
Less Prone to Decay
Terracotta does not deteriorate like other materials. It is also resistant to damage caused by insects. Cement fillers are usually added in between gaps to prevent insects from building their nests in it.
Sustainable and Eco-friendly
Because Terracotta is made from readily available natural clay, little energy is used in the sourcing, manufacturing, and installation of terracotta shingles. Less energy used means a smaller carbon footprint. Terracotta does not contain any dangerous compounds and does not emit any gases when decaying. It is perfectly natural. Aside from that, it can be recycled. Terracotta has 95% recyclability.
Energy Efficient
Slate offers a level of durability like no other. It can withstand all kinds of weather, from typhoons, heat waves, snow storms, and even hail. In addition to this, mold and fungus do not form on its surface, making it the perfect choice of roofing material. This is the primary reason why slate roofing is perfect for Australian weather and climate.
The thick surface that terracotta provides on the roof can greatly increase the energy efficiency of any property. Terracotta shingles naturally keep properties warm on cold days and keep it cool on hotter days. It also reflects the sun’s heat and UV rays. Because of this, your properties end up using less energy to regulate the temperature inside, therefore, contributing to the drop of your monthly energy bills!
Durable
Terracotta is one of the most durable materials you can find for roofing. It does not require tedious and meticulous maintenance because cleaning with a pressure washer is more than enough to do the job. It can withstand the damages caused by salt water and strong coastal winds that’s why a lot of seaside properties use terracotta shingles for their roofs. Terracotta shingles, when properly installed, can last for up to more than 100 years.
Aesthetic
Terracotta shingles give your properties a Mediterranean and Spanish villa vibe. Its colors range from orange, red-orange, brown, tan, and more.
What are the disadvantages of Terracotta Shingles?
High Cost
It is one of the most pricey roofing materials available in the market. A square foot of terracotta shingles will set you back $150 to $300 per 100 square foot.
Underlayment Problems
Though roofs made from terracotta shingles last for decades, its underlayment lasts way less. Underlayment needs to be assessed every 20 years to determine whether replacement or repair is needed.
Climate Limitations
Even if Terracotta Shingles are weather-resistant, it may not stand rapid freezing in extremely cold temperatures.
Weight
Terracotta Shingles are heavy and will be more suitable for homes that have minor roof pitches and additional roof framing reinforcement.
How long do Terracotta Roofs last?
Roofs made with terracotta shingles are said to last from 75 to 100 years if properly maintained and cared for. Simply said, it can last a lifetime! Its longevity is very cost-effective, spreading its installation, maintenance, and repair costs across a longer period of time.
How much do Terracotta Roofs cost?
Terracotta Shingles are more expensive compared to other roofing materials. For every 100 square foot, be prepared to shell out $150 to $300, labor and installation costs not included. Despite its higher pricing, Terracotta roofs can magnify the retail and market value of your property.
How do you care for your Terracotta Roof?
Terracotta Shingles on roofs are low maintenance. Moss and other organic material are easily washed out using a soft pressure washer and algaecide. Maintenance must be initially done during the first 5 years and then must be inspected annually to prolong and maximize its lifespan and functionality.
The benefits outweigh the price
Roofs made with Terracotta Shingles are stunning, attractive, and considered to be one of the most eye-catching roofing choices in the market. It offers that classic, rustic, and mediterranean feel, promotes sustainability and energy-efficiency, and boasts of a durability that lasts a lifetime! Our team of experts are readily available to assist you in planning, designing, and purchasing the right Terracotta shingles for your roofs. We guarantee you that it will be worth every cent! Contact us for a free consultation today.
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