NJ Roofing Blog » Tile Roofing

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing Installation 101

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 08 May 2012 14:19:46 +0000

The recent trend toward Mediterranean building styles has fueled a re-emergence of Spanish clay tile roofing. Long-prized for its aesthetic appeal, tile is also a durable and long-lasting roofing material that often carries up to a 50-year warranty. Although the cost of tile roofing may be high initially, there is seldom a need for roof replacement.

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing Installation

Roof tiles are as heavy as they are durable, and therefore, require some extra considerations for successful roofing installation.

Begin with solid construction of the roof deck, making sure that the weight of the tile roof will be supported. If there are low-pitch overhangs, check that there is enough slant for good drainage.
Apply a high quality underlayment. Because tile roofing has such a long life, this is crucial. In northern climates, a rubberized ice and water shield is recommended. Drip edge and bird-stop edging should also be installed for maximum protection.
Use treated 1 x 2 battens to support and affix the rows of tile. Leave gaps to allow drainage. Tiles are overlapped on the battens and secured with either nails, metal clips, or even adhesive. The quality of the securing materials will determine whether tiles stay in place—or loosen with time.
High-quality, correctly installed flashing is essential to a lasting tile roofing installation. Lead flashing is flexible and works well around chimneys and vents. Copper flashing has a long life and is a good alternative. Make sure that flashing fits securely at roof seams, channels, and where roofing and walls meet.
As with any roofing installation, tile roofs will last longer with installation of a gutter system. Check that gutters and downspouts are adequate to handle the flow of water from the roof.
Finally, use a professional tile roof contractor. The most common problems with tile roofing arise from the use of inadequate base materials and slipshod workmanship.

Don’t let the initial cost of a Spanish tile roof discourage you from considering it for your home or commercial building. When installed by the experienced roofing contractors at LGC Roofing, tile roofs are beautiful, functional, and long-lasting. LGC carries and installs Ludowici clay tiles in a variety of styles and colors. Check out the possibilities and get a free estimate. Call 602-712-8157 to schedule an appointment today!

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Spanish Clay Tile Roofing in Commercial Applications

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:04:11 +0000

Clay tile roofing is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who are drawn to its beauty and long life, but what about its applicability to commercial and industrial properties?

Clues about potential uses in non-residential buildings can be found by examining the material’s properties, benefits and limitations.

Clay tile is a fairly heavy but extremely durable material with an expected lifespan of about 50 years, depending on climate. It is a relatively low-maintenance roofing material which offers excellent fire resistance and naturally repels insects.

Clay tile is also noted for its aesthetic appeal, since it adds a touch of old-world flair. It is an excellent complement to buildings with Mediterranean-style architectural features—like archways, open-air terraces and balconies. (Note: Tile can be brittle, though, and it is not recommended that facility owners or contractors walk on it in order to perform repairs or routine maintenance.)

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing in Commercial Applications

Given its high-performance qualities, Spanish clay tile roofing in NJ commercial and industrial buildings is a good choice for a range of situations. These include:

Facilities where enhanced fire, corrosion and pest protection are necessary, whether to protect business interests or keep insurance premiums low.
Small businesses requiring exceptional curb appeal and aesthetic draw.
Commercial applications in which property cost-control is desirable. While Spanish clay tile costs more than other standard roofing materials, such as shingle roofing, it lasts longer and requires less maintenance. This makes it a worthwhile investment for many business owners.

Before you commit to tile as a commercial roofing material, make sure the structure can handle the weight of this heavy material. If the building can bear the weight without requiring reinforcement, Spanish clay tile is a wise roofing choice, given its ease of maintenance, long life and superior fire- and insect-retardant capabilities.

At LGC Roofing, we offer expert installation of new clay tile roofs for both residential and commercial buildings, as well as Spanish clay tile restoration services for customers throughout New Jersey.
With hundreds of satisfied clients, we can confidently say that we are one of the leading providers of professional roofing installation and repair services in New Jersey. For a no-obligation quote for your residential or commercial roofing project, please contact our customer service representatives at (609) 712-8157 or request information online.

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Best Commercial Roofing Materials on the Market Today

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:57:23 +0000

Choosing the right roofing material for a commercial or industrial application is critically important.

While aesthetic appeal is important to commercial building owners and property managers, safety, affordability and durability are primary concerns when it comes to commercial roofing today.

Understanding the advantages as well as the limitations of commercial roofing materials is the first step toward making the best, most cost-effective choice for your facility.

Best Commercial Roofing Materials on the Market Today

Hot Mop Roofing

This type of asphalt roofing is a relatively inexpensive option and is a good choice for roofs with flat slopes, so long as they are designed to promote proper drainage. Hot mop roofing is created by applying melted asphalt to a roof surface, then using specialized equipment to spread it evenly and flatten it so that it seals correctly.

Hot mop roofing must be applied properly in order to maximize its lifespan, so it’s essential to work with an experienced commercial roofing contractor if you’re interested in this type of roof.

There are some drawbacks to hot mop roofing, though. First, it’s not particularly aesthetic—but it can be treated to improve its appearance. In addition, the application process releases moderate levels of air pollutants, which is undesirable for Green builders.

Metal Roofing

While it tends to range more toward the expensive end of the commercial roofing material spectrum, metal roofing is an outstanding choice for numerous reasons. Metal roofs are extremely durable and long-lasting, and require very little in the way of maintenance.

Metal roofing also offers outstanding fire and weather resistance, characteristics that make it a popular and safe choice for commercial and industrial buildings. Today’s metal roof suppliers offer a range of colors, textures and types, as well—so you can choose a metal roof that suits your building’s architectural appearance.

Concrete Tile Roofing

Like metal roofing, concrete tile roofing is inflammable, and naturally resists corrosion, pests and weather. Concrete tile roofing is available in an increasingly wide range of styles, textures and colors, giving you plenty of options if you prefer a certain look. However, unlike metal roofing, it is not recyclable, and therefore comes at a higher environmental cost.

Slate Roofing

The many advantages of slate roofing include excellent fire resistance; slate is also resistant to insects and corrosion, and has a very long life expectancy that’s relatively maintenance free. However, if you choose slate roofing for a commercial project, you will need to perform a careful structural assessment, since slate is heavy and adds a significant amount of weight to the building.

Whish Material is Right For Your Project?

To select the most economical, functional commercial roofing material for your business, contact LGC Roofing. Our commercial roofers are experts in hot mop, metal, concrete and slate roofing, and are happy to explain the pros and cons of commercial roofing material options—so you can make an educated choice for your facility.

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Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Concrete Tile Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 14:37:54 +0000

If you’re searching for a roofing alternative similar to clay tile—but without the hefty price tag—concrete tile is one option.

Before considering concrete tile roofing, however, it’s best to consult a professional roofing contractor. Errors in choosing or installing this type of material can end up being very costly.

Concrete tile is a reasonable choice for New Jersey home and business owners, since local weather can be severe. While it can absorb water over time, it’s a generally durable material with a Class-A fire rating. Resistant to wind and hail damage, concrete roofing allows snow to slide off easily, especially if you choose a smooth rather than textured tile finish.

Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Concrete Tile Roofing

While it’s not advisable to install concrete tile yourself, experienced roofers may opt to proceed on their own.

If you’re installing a concrete tile roof by yourself, remember the following tips.

Take care when placing your tiles. The most important installation error is failing to overlap tiles properly—since that may enable windblown snow and rain to damage the roof.
A second common tile roofing error is choosing concrete tile that’s too lightweight. Standard tile generally weighs between 10 and 11 pounds per square foot, while lightweight tile weighs approximately 7.5 pounds per square foot. Lightweight tile is more expensive than standard tile—and tends to be more fragile, as well. It will break easily if you need to walk on it for repairs or maintenance, and can even be cracked by hail or heavy rain. Some structures can’t support the weight of standard tile, however, so it’s important to consult a roofing contractor before making a decision.
Remember that concrete tile roofing is not a good choice for small areas or complex installations. It is the most difficult of all types of roofing to install correctly, since cutting is difficult and requires special equipment. The underlying battens are also quite difficult to install correctly. And, while concrete tile can be installed in a wide range of temperatures, you should not attempt to work on this type of roof during wet weather—as tile becomes quite slippery.
Finally, you should not select concrete tile if you are concerned about maintaining a specific roof color. Concrete tile starts to fade quickly, so replacement tiles will almost never match the originals.

Consult Roof Tile Specialists at LGC Roofing

Considering a concrete tile roof for your large home, business or commercial facility? Contact the NJ roofing tile experts for more information about concrete or other roofing materials. LGC Roofing is a family-owned company with a wide range of experience in tile installation and maintenance, and our team of professionals is always ready to help.

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Clay Tile Repair Tips

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 07:41:13 +0000

Once used to protect ancient Chinese, Greek and Babylonian buildings, clay tile was brought to the U.S. by European craftsman. Today, clay tile remains a beautiful, durable roofing option for many structures, especially Mediterranean styles.

As with virtually any roofing material, tile roofing will require occasional repairs due to:

Frost damage
Corrosion of iron nails and fasteners
Water damage due to failing gutters or metal flashing
Manufacturing defects or tile porosity
Walking damage (incurred during inspection or maintenance)

Repairing Your Own Clay Tile Roof

While a damaged clay roof may require the expertise of a Spanish tile roofing expert, you can make small repairs to extend your roof’s lifespan.

First, conduct regular roof inspections — or hire a qualified NJ contractor to inspect the roof for you. If you choose the do-it-yourself route, use an extension ladder to look at the roof’s surface. When you must climb onto the roof, remember to avoid placing all of your weight on one tile. Distribute weight evenly, stepping on the bottom of the tiles where they attach to the row below. Always avoid tile edges, which are particularly fragile. (If you have the option, you may even wish to attach a 2”X4” board to the roof so you can walk on that, instead.)

While you’re on the roof, look for broken or crumbling tiles. These should be promptly repaired or replaced, since water can seep underneath them and damage the underlay or drip into your attic. If tiles have only small cracks, seal the cracks with roofing mortar and allow mortar to cure. It’s best to make this repair when you’re not expecting rain.

To replace a more severely damaged tile, slide a flat, metal bar underneath the tile and gently pry it away from the roof’s surface. To avoid damaging the surrounding tiles, you may wish to use a ball-peen hammer to break the tile into smaller, more manageable pieces. Once it’s removed, apply mortar to the underlay and slide a new tile into place. If you choose to secure the tile with small nails, be careful not to crack it (or the nearby tiles) by applying too much hammer pressure. After 24 hours, check replacement tiles to determine whether additional mortar is required.

Trust the LGC Roofing Professionals for Tile Repairs

Did you know that LGC Roofing specializes in the installation and maintenance of Ludowici fine clay roofing? It’s a strong, naturally green and climate-friendly roofing material that’s ideal for commercial and residential structures. To inquire about installing this timeless roofing option—or to request repairs to your existing clay tile roof, contact us today.

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Barrel Tile Roof Restoration – NJ Roofing Project

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:55:30 +0000

Barrel Tile restoration project

Few weeks ago we were called by a worried homeowner in Teaneck, NJ who requested a roof inspection as she suspected a leak damaging the tile rood of her house. We often get such calls, especially at this time of the year when the weather takes a huge tall on a roofing structure.

Upon inspection of the roof we discovered not one but several roof leaks caused by broken tiles and rusted flashings. We offered an estimate for a leak repair and roof restoration and got the job!

The process

First step was to carefully remove all of the existing barrel tiles from the roof.

Special care is taken to avoid any further damage to existing tile and make sure that we salvage as much as possible.

Once the tile was removed and collected, the next step was to inspect the underlying wood decking.

There was significant damage here, so we replaced the decking as needed, removing rotted material and installing new pieces.

Next we installed copper flashings, then ice and water shield underlayment and wood to support tile.

Finally, the roof was ready for the tile. We re-installed all of the salvaged tiles filling in with additional ones as needed.

Another great project done. Another happy NJ homeowner! Thank you LGC Roofing TEAM!

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Durability and Longevity of Clay Tile Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:35:32 +0000

While clay tile costs more than composite or shake shingles, many home and business owners are attracted to its timeless look. When evaluating expense, remember that most clay tile roofs are warranted for 50+ years and can last up to 100—making them a sound investment and practical property improvement.

Advantages of Clay Tile Roofs

In addition to their proven longevity, clay tiles are wind, hail and fire resistant, so they’re especially attractive for those living with shifting weather extremes. New Jersey residents will find that clay tile stands up well to the state’s highly variable wet, dry, hot and cold airstreams. Clay tile also creates a thermal barrier, which prevents both interior and exterior energy escape. As an added bonus to utility savings, tile roof owners may qualify for tax deductions and utility rebates.

Green consumers appreciate the natural, biodegradable composition of clay tile. Created from clay and water baked at ultra-high temperatures, the tiles emit no environmental toxins, produce clean water runoff, and can eventually be recycled for use in construction and transportation projects.

No matter what the architectural style of your home or business, clay tile adds a charming touch. Commercial and residential property owners can choose from hundreds of tile colors to complement the hue and style of their home, and the baked-in pigment and weather-proof glaze prevents fading—even over decades of use.

Clay Tile Roof Tips

Clay roofs are heavy. Your qualified roofing specialist should assess your home or business before installing the tile to ensure your structure is sound enough to manage the product’s weight. Remember, also, that proper color blending requires careful tile placement—so multi-colored tile roofs may cost more to install and take longer to complete.

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Repair and Restoration of Tile Roof

Lukasz Sobczuk — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:04:06 +0000

While tile is an attractive, durable roofing option, time and weathering can take their toll—resulting in chipping, discoloration and algae/lichen buildup.

If you’re concerned about the structure and appearance of your home’s roof, talk to a roofing repair expert about restoring the tile. Restoration is often simple and affordable, extending your roof’s life and saving you thousands in replacement expenses.

Restoration of Tile Roof: The Process

Whether you’ve neglected seasonal roof maintenance or are purchasing a home with a decrepit tile roof, you may be concerned about attic leaks, cracked tiles or unsightly fading. Proper concrete, ceramic and terracotta restoration typically includes the following procedures:

Careful removal of tiles from entire roof
Inspection/replacement of wood decking
Installation of waterproof roof underlayment
Replacement of all flashings and valleys
Re-installation of old tiles with replacing damaged ones

Tile roof restoration is a cost-effective way to extend the life of your roof to over 50 years, while improving your home’s value and curb appeal. At LGC Roofing, we’ll provide you with a no-obligation roof restoration estimate that includes comprehensive pricing, detailed warranty information and completion timetables.

Considering full roof replacement instead of restoration? We have over two decades of tile roof installation experience and will manage your job from the initial consultation to the final inspection. Call today to schedule an on-site estimate with one of New Jersey’s best roofing specialists.