Roof Tiles

What are roof tiles?

Roof tiles are one of the most popular ways to cover a roof, providing long-lasting protection against the elements while contributing to the overall appearance of a property.

How do roof tiles work?

Roof tiles are designed to create a weatherproof covering that sheds rainwater safely away from the roof structure. Installed in overlapping courses, they work alongside roofing underlay, roof battens and ventilation components to create a complete pitched roofing system that helps protect your home from wind, rain and moisture ingress.

What types of roof tiles are there?

Modern roof tiles are manufactured from a variety of materials, including clay, concrete, natural slate, slate-effect alternatives, plastic and bitumen-based products. Each option offers different benefits in terms of appearance, durability, weight, cost and suitability for specific projects.

Concrete roof tiles

Concrete roof tiles are one of the most widely used roofing materials in the UK, offering a practical balance of durability, performance and value. Manufactured from sand, cement and pigments, they are available in a wide range of colours and profiles, including designs that replicate the appearance of traditional clay tiles or natural slate.

One of the main advantages of concrete tiles is their affordability compared to natural materials, making them a popular choice for both new-build and refurbishment projects. They provide excellent resistance to wind, rain and frost, while their interlocking profiles can help speed up installation and reduce the number of tiles required per square metre.

However, concrete tiles are generally heavier than clay or slate alternatives, so the roof structure must be suitable for the additional loading. For projects where budget, durability and low maintenance are key considerations, browse our roof tiles range

Clay roof tiles

Clay roof tiles have been used for centuries and remain a popular choice for homeowners seeking a traditional, premium appearance. Their natural colour runs throughout the tile rather than being applied as a surface coating, helping them retain their character over time.

Clay tiles offer excellent durability and weather resistance and can achieve exceptionally long service lives when properly installed. They are particularly well suited to period properties, conservation projects and developments where a traditional aesthetic is required.

While clay tiles typically command a higher upfront cost than concrete alternatives, many customers consider the appearance and longevity worthwhile. As with any roofing product, ongoing maintenance may be required to remove moss, algae and debris.

Slate roof tiles

Slate roofing is available in both natural slate and slate-effect roof tiles, which are distinct products with different characteristics.

Natural slate is a premium roofing material quarried from stone. Known for its distinctive appearance, low water absorption and exceptional lifespan, natural slate is often specified for high-end residential, heritage and conservation projects. It is highly durable, naturally fire resistant and can last for decades when maintained correctly.

Slate-effect roof tiles, typically manufactured from concrete or fibre cement, are designed to replicate the appearance of natural slate while offering a more cost-effective alternative. Depending on the product, they may also provide easier installation and greater consistency in size and appearance.

Plastic roof tiles

Plastic roof tiles are a lightweight alternative manufactured using durable polymers, often incorporating recycled materials. Their low weight can reduce structural loading requirements while making handling and installation easier.

These tiles are resistant to rot, insect attack and many weather-related issues, making them a practical option for certain residential and outbuilding applications. They are also available in designs that mimic the appearance of traditional slate or clay roofing materials.

Felt roof tiles

Felt roof tiles, often used on garden buildings, sheds and smaller structures, provide a cost-effective roofing solution that is easy to install and maintain. Available in a range of colours and styles, they help protect buildings from rain, wind and UV exposure while delivering an attractive finish.

For larger residential roofing projects, customers may wish to explore alternative roof tile materials better suited to long-term domestic applications.

Roof pitch considerations

The minimum roof pitch for a tiled roof depends on the specific product being installed and should always be checked against the manufacturer's installation guidance. Different tile profiles have different performance characteristics, meaning there is no universal minimum pitch that applies to all roof tiles.

Some interlocking concrete roof tiles are designed for lower-pitch applications, while traditional plain tiles and certain slate products may require steeper roof pitches to achieve effective weather performance. Before selecting your tiles, review the relevant product specification to ensure suitability for your project.

If you're planning a low-pitch roof, extension or refurbishment project, speak to your local Howarth branch for guidance on suitable tile options and compatible roofing system components.

Roof tile accessories and pitched roofing components

Roof tiles perform best when installed as part of a complete roofing system. Alongside your chosen tiles, you'll typically require supporting products such as ,roof battens,roofing membranes, ventilation products, and roofing fixings and accessories.

At Howarth, we stock a wide range of roofing components to help create a durable and compliant roof system, including:

• Roof tile vents that help maintain airflow within the roof space and reduce the risk of condensation.
• Roof tile clips and fixings that help secure tiles against wind uplift and adverse weather conditions.
• Ridge, hip and verge accessories to provide a weatherproof and professional finish.
• Roof battens and roofing membranes that support the tile covering and form part of the roof's weather-resistant structure.

For detailed guidance on selecting these products, browse our dedicated roofing category pages.

If you're unsure which roof tile material is right for your project, contact your local Howarth branch for expert advice. Our team can help you select suitable roof tiles and the complementary roofing products needed to complete your installation.