Concrete Roof tiles? Smart Move!
They are extremely strong, stay steady during storms, don’t crack and are attractive. Laying roof tiles isn’t so DIY, but it always helps to know the process when professionals are undertaking the work.

Step 1: Planning

On very many occasions, laying contractors start with the work soon, only to find themselves regretting their decisions later. By then, it’ll be too late.

Special attention needs to be given on:

• Area Estimation
• Number of tiles to purchase
• Batten Spacing(Gauging)
• Number of ridges and other accessories.
• Weather Forecast

Step 2: Framework Basics

As is the case in Kerala and Tamil Nadu there are basically two types of roof

-Sloped concrete roof

-Steel truss

In modern residences, where a steady slope is created using concrete, you just need to affix purlins on the slope.

For flat roofs, a sloped area needs to be created so as to place the roof tiles. In this case, a steel/wooden truss is to made accordingly.

Purlins are affixed horizontally along the length of the roof to provide a stable platform to place the tiles

Rafters are vertical elements carrying most of the load.

Rafters and purlins have to be designed according to the span of the room.

Proper spacing should be provided for the purlins so that the tiles are laid evenly.

Either way, the intention is to create a strong sloped platform where the tiles can be placed.

Step 3: Placing the Tiles

After spacing the purlins accurately based on gap estimations, tiles are placed from bottom to the top on the purlins with the batten lug preventing the tiles from sliding down.

You can even walk on the tiles while laying, thanks to the strength of concrete tiles.

In the case of Sirex concrete roof tiles, there is no need of nailing the tiles to the purlin. Due to the interlocking property and also the batten lug, it can be merely placed on purlin.

It can even withstand the effect of a storm.

Step 4: Cutting Tiles

In sloped corner areas where there’s a need for cutting the corners of the tiles, batten lugs will also be removed.

For stability, roof clips have to be used ( available in the market)

Ridge tiles and other accessories are fixed using a bit of cement mortar. The mortar mix that is overspilled has to be cleaned immediately.

Pigments can be added to the cement mortar to match the color of the tile. As an alternative, cement painting can also be done.

Note: Understand the batten spacing required for the tile from the manufacturer itself. Also, the laying professional have to put in considerable time into planning and adjusting the initial stages.