What is it made of?

Concrete roof tile is made of Portland Cement, Sand, Water and Oxide for color. There is a sealer integrated in the mix design to minimize efflorescence.

How is it made?

The raw materials are precisely mixed to ensure consistency, extruded through a high pressure section onto shaped molds, which are then cut into individual tiles and have nail holes stamped. The tiles are cured with a combination of heat and humidity. The tiles are removed from the shaped molds and packaged. The tiles remain in the yard for a few days prior to shipping to allow the concrete to continue to cure. The system is highly automated with people overseeing the quality of the tiles through each stage of production.

What is the minimum slope of a tile roof?

The minimum slope is 3:12 (17*). At less than a 3:12 slope, the roof tile is decorative only and must be installed over a sealed roof deck with provisions for drainage under the tile.

How long will it really last?

Westile warrantees our tile for 50 years. However we have seen practical examples in Germany where the concrete roof tile has protected the structure for over 150 years.

Can I walk on my tile roof?

Yes, but be careful. Any sloped surface can be dangerous to walk on and may be slippery. If you are going be on your roof to wash windows or hang holiday lights, stay on the lower third of each tile where your weight is transferred straight onto the roof deck. Avoid stepping on the cut tiles on the hips or valleys and the thin area where the tiles interlock side to side. Most professionals know that if they are doing to spend a lot of time on a tile roof when repainting the house or cleaning the chimney, they will put down sheets of plywood to dissipate their weight and movements over a large section of roof tiles.

Building / home owner assumes all liability for foot traffic on roof. Damage caused by foot traffic is not covered under the product warranty.

How do roof tiles get broken and why do corners sometimes break?

Most commonly when a branch crashes down during a storm. Sometimes when someone isn't watching where they are walking and steps down roughly on the tile. And sometimes, if the tiles were installed too close together (there is a natural spacing we call shunt between the tiles) and the house settles putting pressure on the jammed together area.

If I see broken tiles on my roof, am I going to get a leak during the next rain?

Not normally, there are a variety of underlayments (the "tar paper") that provide a secondary barrier to the weather. Those broken tiles should be replaced a quickly as possible to keep the rain on top of the tiles and to prevent the sun from cooking the tar out of the underlayments.

What is the difference between color through and slurry products? Is color thru important?

There are no performance differences between slurry and color through products. The biggest difference is aesthetics. The slurry tiles have a shiny high gloss appearance and the color through products have a matte appearance. However, because the cementitous slurry is applied after extrusion, slurry coated tiles are not recommended in areas of heavy freeze thaw cycles.

How does roof tile perform in high winds?

The weight of the individual tiles plus the single standard fastener keeps the tiles in place in areas with wind speeds up to 80 miles per hour. In areas of higher winds, there are alternative fastening methods that can withstand up to 140 mile per hour wind speeds.

How are tiles fastened in high wind areas?

Unfortunately that is one of those "that depends" questions. It depends on a number of factors, the mean height of the roof, the maximum expected wind speed, what part of the country the building is in, what section of the roof (field, perimeter or ridge) and what the local building officials require. The additional fastening criteria can be as little a wind clip at the nose to as much as 2 screws and a clip per tile. If you have exact questions, please e-mail me and I will get to you an exact answer.

How do roof tiles perform in cold weather conditions?

The density and durability of concrete make Westile a natural choice in cold or high freeze thaw cycling areas. The tile is not susceptible to moisture freezing within the body of the tile. There are specific application procedures that manage the snow blanket that may accumulate on the roof to prevent the snow from turning into a block of ice or sliding off the roof in large sheets. The tile has a naturally occurring air pocket between the underside of the tile and the roof sheathing, that when installed and ventilated correctly minimize ice damming as well as tile expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature.

Does moss or mildew grow on a tile roof?

The natural alkalinity of cement based products will not prevent moss or mildew from growing on roof tile. The mildew or algae does not grow directly on the tile, rather it grows on the accumulation of dust and other organic materials that settle on the tile. When enough heat, moisture and light are present, the mildew and algae spores start to grow. There are also many environmental variables such as the location of the house, the direction the house facing away from the sun and the quantity of shading trees or the proximity of canals and lakes which contribute to mildew growth.

How can I clean moss or mildew off the tile roof?

Mildew and algae can be removed or treated without compromising the integrity of the roof tile. In most cases a light solution of household bleach (less than 1%) through a pressure washer will remove the moss or mildew. However if the conditions are right, mildew growth and alga spores will return and the roof must be cleaned again. We recommended that all work be handled by a professional, experienced in this type of work due to the dangers associated with walking a wet, sloped, roof surface.

How often do I clean my roof?

It depends on how fast the moss or mildew return. In most cases, it will take at least two years for the moss to return in large quantities to a well-treated roof.

How much pressure should be used when cleaning roof tile?

A maximum 1200-psi system with the nozzle kept at least 12 inches away from the tile surface will prevent unnecessary wear to the tile.

What is the best solution to use for cleaning roof tile?

Common household bleach at a no more than 1% strength should kill most of the alga spores. However if you have sensitive plants or foliage where the run off may go make sure that the plants are covered and that the water is diverted from the roots.

What is efflorescence?

Efflorescence is the naturally occurring chemical reaction where the free lime in concrete reacts with the atmosphere and water to produce Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3). This is a temporary surface discoloration common to all concrete products. It is in no way detrimental to the overall quality or function of the roof tile.

How long will the efflorescence process take?

It is difficult to predict how long the effects of efflorescence will last. It depends on the type and amount of deposit as well as the local weather conditions. The action of carbon dioxide (CO2) and rainwater will inmost cases gradually remove the deposit, leaving the original color of the roof tile intact without further efflorescence occurring.

What is the purpose of sealer?

The sealer is to close off the pores on the top surface of the tile and force the free lime that is released during the curing of the concrete to migrate toward the underside (non-visible) of the tile.

Should we re-seal the roof when the original sealer burns off? Do I need to periodically reseal my roof?

The concrete will only cure and therefore release the free lime for only the first few months after manufacturing. Once the sealer burns off the tile is generally well cured, and resealing is unnecessary as it is not required to maintain the weather proofing performance of the tile roof system.

Do pine needles or leaves on my tiles cause my roof to leak?

Extreme accumulations of leaves or pine needles in the valleys or interlocks can force water onto the underlayment. If the underlayment is installed as the secondary weather barrier then there should be no problems, however since water is underneath the primary weather barrier, any tears or punctures in the underlayment can allow water into the structure. Sometimes if enough debris builds up in the valley or roof to wall flashings, the water can be channeled over the diverter ribs and onto the underlayment under the tile.

How big do valleys or pan flashings have to be?

This is another of "it depends" questions. The standard valley starts as a 24-inch wide sheet metal that then has ribs and channels bent into it. This generally provides an effective channel ½ inch deep and 20 inches wide under the tile. If the valley is exceptionally long, or another roof drains into the lower valley then a valley should be designed to accommodate the additional volume. There are a number of designs incorporating ribs that support the overlaying tile and allow for clear channels under the tile.

Is concrete roof tile really energy efficient?

There are a number of factors that contribute to a product's energy efficiency. One factor is the resistance to the migration of heat or cold through the system. Because Westile roof tile have different size dead air spaces between the underside of the tile and the roof deck, there is an opportunity for excessive heat or cold to not be directly transferred into the attic space. Another factor in a product's energy efficiency is how much heat is reflected away before it gets into the attic space. The Florida Solar Energy Center has been conducting a multiple year study on the benefits of roof tile compared to other roofing materials. They found " the vented tile roof reduced ceiling (heat) flux by 48% compared to the black shingle roof, while the direct-nail installation returned a flux reduction of 39%. It appears that the tile thermal mass and interstitial ventilation around each tile are the predominant phenomena reducing the cooling load in such roofs." The FSEC also noted that even red tile roofs significantly reduced attic temperatures. The results of this study can be seen online at http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/.

Is roof tile only used in the Sunbelt areas?

The traditional "round and red" type of roof tiles match the style of southwestern architecture found in the Sunbelt areas. However, the durability to extreme weather and ease of installation has allowed concrete roof tile to be the preferred choice throughout Europe and Scandinavia. Westile roof tile is available in different shapes and colors to match any architectural style and exterior color scheme.

What is LRV?

Light Reflectance Value is how much light is bounced back from the profile and color. Many roof tile colors have low LRV ratings for those communities that require buildings to blend into their surroundings, however in some markets the owner's preference is toward our series of bright, high gloss cementitous colored slurry finishes.

What colors are available?

Westile is available in colors that compliment or enhance other exterior colors of the home. The way tiles are manufactured it allows various color pigments to be either applied to the surface of the tile or as an integral part of the tile. These colors can vary from cool blues and warm reds to earthy browns and neutral greys. Once again the overall color theme of the exterior communicates a permanent statement about the home. Contact your local Westile sales representative for a color consultation for your unique needs.

How important are tile underlayments?

The underlayment is a secondary weather barrier as some moisture may get past the roof tiles and onto the underlayment. Since the Westile concrete roof tile is a 50-year roof system, you would want to choose an underlayment that will perform under the same climatic conditions for 50 years.

What type of fasteners should be used on the Underlayments?

The fasteners for the underlayment should be: Corrosion Resistant, with a head size to prevent the underlayment to tear through when the roof is loaded only, of a length sufficient to firmly embed into the substrate. When tin tags or capped nails should be corrosion resistant as well. The potential for wind damage to felt is generally fairly low since the roof is usually either loaded or battened shortly after felting.

How are tiles fastened to the roof according to Uniform Building Code?

Fastened in accordance with Tables 15-D-1 and 15-D-2 of the Uniform Building Code (UBC). Fasteners shall be 11 gauge corrosion resistant nails with a minimum 5/16 inch head size of lengths sufficient to provide the 3/4 inch penetration into the deck or batten or through the deck that is required by code. Either an 8d or a 10d nail satisfy the requirement for an 11-gauge shank size, but only the 10d satisfies the requirement for the 5/16-inch head. Roofing nails have the correct size head on batten installations Clipped nail guns cannot be used as the head does not that meet the diameter requirements of the building code Coil nails must be of a sufficient length to satisfy the code requirements.

Has any testing been done on Tile Roofs in Seismic Zones?

A University of Southern California study was commission by the National Tile Roofing Manufacturers Association (NTRMA) to study the performance of clay and concrete roof tiles in seismic areas. All tiles were attached to the experimental roof decks in accordance with Tables 15-D-1 and 15-D-2 of the Uniform Building Code. Both clay and concrete tile were installed at roof slopes of 5:12, 12:12 and 24:12 and tested at forces in excess of 1.4g (gravity acceleration) in both parallel and perpendicular direction. Results of the tests proved that current fastening requirements are adequate to resist tile displacement for forces twice as strong as required by the Uniform Building Code. For concrete tiles installed on battens, only perimeter tiles require fastening on slopes below 5:12, while on slopes between 5:12 and 12:12 perimeter and alternate courses are required to be fastened. Above 12:12, all tiles must be fastened.

My roofing contractor installs my roof slightly differently than your recommendations, how does this affect my warranty?

The written recommendations from Westile are only that: recommendations. The local building official determines the minimum requirements to secure and weatherproof the roofing system. There are a number of ways to correctly install a tile roof based on the climatic conditions. Your roofing contractor may include upgrades in his installation that are outside of Westile's recommendations simply because we do not have enough experience with the roofer's technique or choice of accessory products. However, in all cases the local building official has the final jurisdiction on the installation requirements and quality of the materials used. It is important to recognize that Westile's recommendations are not warranties on the performance of the installed system. Westile's warranty is that the roof tiles will last 50 years. When your roof is applied you should have two warranties one for the roof tile from Westile and one for the installation from the roofing contractor.

How does "foam applied" installation work?

In Florida and other extreme wind areas, the use of expanding foam adhesive has been approved by the local building officials to be used in place of concrete mortar paddies. These systems originated out of the desire to eliminate nail penetrations through the underlayment. The low slope roof system includes a fully sealed and adhered underlayment system to which the pre-measured foam is applied and the roof tile is embedded in the foam. There is a longer, more detailed article in the Florida Forum roofing magazine on the foam applied system: http://www.floridaroof.com/ffmag.htm.

Can my roofer use Orientated Strand Board (OSB) as a roof deck under a tile roof?

In 2000 a major study was undertaken by the Engineered Wood Products Association (APA) to determine the structural integrity equivalency to similar thicknesses of plywood. In most building department jurisdictions outside of Florida, the structural performance characteristics allow OSB to be used in place plywood. Due to Florida's extreme climatic conditions different building departments do not allow OSB due to the fastener withdrawal values, so please check with your local building department for their requirements or the APA at http://www.apawood.org.

How big do crickets need to be?

Roof crickets are the roof design element to slow down and redirect water coming down the roof above a large roof protrusion (chimney, skylight or wall). If this is not done, then water can splash over the back saddle flashing and cause a leak. The minimum requirement is that a cricket or diverter be in place on all protrusions wider than 30 inches. However, there are a number of variables including the total surface area that will drain directly behind the protrusion that may change the size of the cricket. In Florida there exists a very common roof design where a roof slope drains into a horizontal wall. The cricket should be installed to enhance the flow of water away from the roof to wall intersection. If there is some doubt as to the size or configuration of the cricket, please consult an engineer for the proper design based on roof slope, expected maximum rainfall and drainage area.

How do I repaint my roof?

There are a number of professional services that specialize in changing the color of your roof tile. They have special formulated paints and concrete dyes that work well on roof tile. As most good painters will tell you that preparation is the most important step in making sure the project turns out the way you intended, so cleaning the roof of moss, mildew, dirt and debris is crucial. These roof painters are also very knowledgeable regarding walking on steep, slippery roofs and how to walk on roof tile to prevent unnecessary damage.

When must chipped tile be replaced?

When the structural or weather proofing performance of the tile is compromised. Some of the factors that determine the integrity of the tile are:

• Complete horizontal or vertical breaks.
  
• Broken corners above the 3-inch overlap.
  
• Broken underlocks extending past the 3-inch overlap.
  
• Coverlocks not extending past less than the 3-inch overlap may be repaired with the proper roof tile adhesive. Care must be taken with the adhesive to not block the water channel on the underlock.
  
• If the small coverlock piece is not available, then aesthetic consideration takes precedence over functional consideration. On low slope roofs the missing piece may not be as noticeable as on a steeply sloped roof. If the corner piece is not available, aesthetics become a factor that must be considered. In all cases, if the missing chip affects the weather integrity of the roof it should be replaced.
  

Can I drink the water off the tile roof?

The roof tile is as inert as common concrete sidewalks or driveways. Beside dust and normal airborne debris, the rainwater from a tile roof can go into a cistern without any problems.

Can I install standard weight tile on my existing home or do I have to use lightweight?

That would depend on many factors. The biggest concerns are the unsupported span of the rafters and the size of the window and door headers. In many areas where snow load or wind load have already been designed into the structure the additional weight between standard and lightweight roof tile is within the tolerances built into the house.

When re-roofing with roof tile, Westile recommends employing a structural engineer to verify the structure can accommodate the weight of the roof tile.

Where can I buy it?

At most roofing specialty yards.

How do I choose a qualified roofing contractor?

You should thoroughly investigate several contractors because a good roof requires a qualified contractor as well as quality roofing materials.

• Price and More ­ Of course, compare bids for total installed cost, but remember we often get what we pay for so look closely at each contractor.
  
• Referrals ­ Ask friends and neighbors who they recommend.
  
• References ­ Ask the roofing contractor for pact customers, and call them.
  
• Complaints ­ Check the Better Business Bureau. Licenses ­ Ask about all appropriate state and local licenses.
  
• Insurance ­ Ask to see the contractor's liability and worker's compensation insurance policies.
  
• Experience ­ How many years has the contractor been in business? Drive by some nearby homes the contractor roofed or is roofing to see if the roofs look even and neat.
  
• Crews ­ It's generally better if the roofer uses his own crews instead of subcontracting to outside roofers.
  
• Associated Recommendations ­ Be certain all bids include the same work. Often, the roofer should be repairing or replacing other components like gutters, down spouts, and flashing.
  
• Bids ­ Make sure all bide, are in writing with costs for roofing, materials, and associated work (above) all broken out. Bids should also contain timetables for Starting and finishing the work. Any change from the original bid may add additional costs.
  
• Building Code Requirements ­ When considering a new roof, you should check with your local building department about class (A, B or C) of roof covering your local building code requires.
  
• Qualified Contractors ­ Westile will supply you with a list of qualified licensed and insured roofing contractors.
  

What happens when my home is roofed with concrete tile?

Here's the roofing process with concrete tile. Similar steps will be followed for other roofing materials. If you decide not to use long­life, fire­resistant, hail­resistant concrete tile, you should check the manufacturer and contractor for complete information.

• Tear Off ­ If you are reroofing your home, the first step is to remove your old roof. With asphalt shingles and wood shakes, large shovels are used to pry up the shingles and roofing felt beneath them. This should be immediately disposed of in a truck or container. Make sure the crew picks up all Small scraps and nails or staples.
  
• Deck Repair ­ Once the old roof has been removed down to the wood deck, the roofers should repair any split or missing decking.
  
• Roof Preparation ­ Roofers will next install new underlayment roofing felt and battens (wood strips,). New metal flashing is also applied.
  
• Tile Installation ­ Once the tiles are loaded onto the roof, the roofer hangs them on the battens and nails them in place. Tiles are cut to fit valleys, hips, sidewalls, etc.
  
• Clean Up ­ Never make final payment until the roof, yard, and driveway are cleaned up and all materials and tools removed from your property.
  
• Final Inspection ­ Walk around your home and check that everything is cleaned up and completed.
  
• Visually check that the entire roof is covered (no gaps or spaces), gutters and down spouts connected, and flashing (metal) is in place wherever the roof meets a vertical wall. Try to look at the roof from a ladder or even from neighbors' windows. Do not attempt to go on the roof as it is always dangerous.
  
• Problems ­ If you detect any leaks or missing tiles, immediately call your roofing contractor to prevent water damage and further roof problems.
  

How do I choose the right roofing material?

Not all roofing materials are created equal. Roofing materials have a wide range of features and benefits which affect your roof's appearance and performance so consider these factors before you buy.

• Fire Resistance ­ Roofing materials are rated from Class A (the best fire resistance) to Class C (the lowest). These ratings can even affect insurance costs.
  
• Durability ­ Be sure to investigate how well each roofing material stands up to weather and maintenance. In Some areas, hail resistance is critically important.
  
• Life Expectancy and Warranty ­ Ask to see the manufacturer's written warranty for materials and the contractor's warranty for labor before you make a commitment.
  
• Life Cycle Cost and Value ­ Look at more than the initial cost. Consider the cost of the roof over the entire period of the warranty.
  
• Appearance and Color Options ­ since the roof is one of the most visible parts of your home, select a roof that gives you a wide choice of colors and styles.
  
• Weight of the Roofing Materials ­ If you decide to change roofing materials when you reroof your home, contact an engineer to evaluate your home's Structural strength. A list of structural engineers is available from Westile.
  
• "Curb Appeal" ­ Consider curb appeal and longevity for future resale value.
  

What kind of applications can Ballast Paver be used for?

Ballast Paver can be used as a walkway, perimeter ballast (10-ft. min.) or in a fully ballasted application.

Can Ballast Paver be used as a terrace or plaza deck?

The Ballast Paver was developed specifically to ballast flat roofing systems. Therefore, Ballast Paver can only receive limited foot traffic such as maintenance personnel; Ballast Paver should not be used as a terrace or plaza deck.

I have had problems with wind damage on my commercial roof, will Ballast Paver protect my roof from high winds?

Ballast Paver has been wind tunnel tested up to 150 miles per hour in open terrain to urban applications. Consult with your Westile representative concerning a Ballast Paver system recommendation for your particular job.

What kind of roof does Ballast Paver get installed over?

Ballast Paver is typically installed over a loose laid membrane, but can be used over any low slope roofing systems requiring an ultimate layer of protection.

How does the Ballast Paver perform concerning freeze thaw cycles?

Ballast Paver is an extruded molded product, which is produced under 20,000 lbs. of pressure. Therefore, Ballast Paver is a freeze thaw resistant product and carries a 10-year limited material warranty.

Is Ballast Paver available in colors?

Ballast Paver is available in five custom colors along with the standard Natural Gray color.

Does Ballast Paver allow for drainage to occur on the roof?

Ballast Paver has a built-in grid of non-abrasive footpads on its underside and therefore allows for drainage in any direction.

My roof can only take a certain amount of weight, how much does Ballast Paver weigh?

Ballast Paver weighs 12 lbs. per square foot.

Is there a wind blow off warranty available for Ballast Paver?

For a cost, Westile offers a 5 or 10 year Limited Wind Uplift Warranty for Ballast Paver.

I want a unique look for my plaza deck; can I get this with Plaza Paver?

Yes, Plaza Paver is available in various colors, sizes and finishes.

My roof has slope built into it for drainage; can I obtain a level foot traffic surface with Plaza Paver?

Our unique ScrewJack pedestal system will allow the Plaza Pavers to be applied level over a sloped to drain roof system.

I've seen a lot of pavers disintegrate on the roof, will this happen to your Plaza Paver?

Due to our unique hydraulically pressed manufacturing process, Plaza Pavers are manufactured under 400 plus tons of pressure. Therefore the density of the Plaza Pavers makes them freeze thaw resistant and gives them the ability to perform in all climates.

My roof can only take so much weight, how much does Plaza Paver weigh?

Plaza Pavers weigh 18-24 lbs. per square foot, consult you Westile representative for the exact weight of Westile product you are considering for your roof.

If you have a question that is not included in these FAQs please email me and I'll be happy to find the answer for you.