It has been a traditional roofing material for thousands of years. However, modern natural ceramic tiles are quite expensive. Therefore, a simpler and cheaper technology for manufacturing tiles was invented by vibrocompression of a cement-sand mixture with polymer additives and dyes. Thus, cement-sand tiles were born. Cement-sand or cement (as it is called in the West) tiles due to dyes can be of almost any color. The surface of cement-sand tiles can be smooth or rough. There is a cement-sand tile of standard thickness, and lightweight refined cement-sand tiles are produced. However, thinner tiles have less strength: they can crack when moving along the roof of a person or under the load from snow or falling objects (icicles, tree branches). The service life of cement-sand tiles is significantly less than natural ceramic tiles. If ceramic tiles can last 100-150 years, then cement-sand tiles serve no more than 50 years, and based on Western practical experience of its use - no more than 30-40 years.

Like any tiled roof, a cement-sand tile roof, having many gaps, is not protected from wind blowing and snow and precipitation getting under the roof. Therefore, it is important to properly arrange the underlying waterproofing layer. Over time, the tiles fade and, if necessary, replace the tiles with new ones - such a replacement will be very noticeable. The advantage of cement-sand tiles is its fire safety in comparison with bituminous roofing materials. Such a tile, being properly fixed, resists hurricane winds quite well (due to its large mass - about 50 kg per square meter). Because of their thickness and weight, a tiled roof heats up more slowly in the sun and better protects the house from the summer heat. Also, massive tiled tiles successfully dampen the noise of falling raindrops. High-quality cement-sand tiles, unlike bitumen roofs, do not affect the quality of rainwater, which can be collected for domestic needs. However, fallen leaves can accumulate on roofs of complex shape, moss can begin to grow. The porous structure of concrete contributes to the strengthening of organic forms on the roof. Roofers who constantly cut cement-sand tiles can potentially develop lung silicosis, so the treatment of cement-sand tiles should be done in respiratory protection. By the way, about the newfangled and absolutely useless activity of dropping snow from the roof in winter: you cannot do this activity on cement-tiled roofs - you can damage the tiles. If you want to support guest workers financially: just give them money, and the snow itself will drain from the roof in the form of water in the spring))). There is no physical meaning in dumping snow: the rafter system must be designed to withstand loads of up to 250 kg per square meter of roof (for the Leningrad region).

The range of cement-sand tiles includes both the roof tiles themselves and various shaped products for roofing and ventilation of the under-roof space.		Before us is the Frankfurt or double Italian tile produced by Braas. This tile model has been produced for over 60 years.
For cutting cement-sand tiles, use an angle cut-off saw with a power of approximately 2 kW and a diamond blade for dry cutting heavy concrete with a diameter of 230 mm. The highest productivity and best accuracy is achieved when cutting tiles on a water-cooled machine. Do not cut shingles directly on the roof, as this is not safe for the roofer and may damage the shingles already installed.		To avoid condensation in the insulation of the attic floor, the roof slope design must be ventilated. Modern roof structures require an additional layer of under-roof waterproofing. Depending on the type of material, the ventilation gap under the roof can be double or single. Only multilayer superdiffusion membranes with a vapor permeability of at least 750 - 1000 g / m 2 per day are allowed to be laid directly on the insulation.
Under the roof, with the help of the crate, air ventilated cavities are formed, which are open for air inflow on the overhang of the eaves and for exhaust - on the ridge. With such a constructive solution, the moisture that has fallen under the roof will drain along the film, and the condensed moisture will be ventilated by the air flow, drying the insulation and the crate. See detailed.		The cross-sectional area of ​​the ventilation gap must be at least 200 cm2/m, and its height must be at least 2 cm. The larger the cross section of the ventilation gap, the better the moisture will be vented from the cover space. The minimum allowable cross section of the bar is 3 x 5 cm. The pitch of the crate is approximately 31-34 cm.
To protect the ventilation gap from the penetration of rodents and birds, an air element of the roof is used, popularly referred to as "cilia". To remove moisture from the rafters, in the summer the film is laid with a sag of 2 cm. In winter, the sag is not done - the summer expansion of the material will provide it anyway.		When constructing an insulated pitched roof, the sheets of roofing waterproofing are laid with an overlap and may have a special ventilated gasket in the overlap, which facilitates the release of steam from the insulation. From the side of the room, the insulation is carefully insulated with vapor barrier (better reflective), also with gluing of all seams and joints.
Cement-sand tiles are laid from the bottom up, from right to left. For convenience, marking of rows of tiles is applied to the crate. The first row of shingles is fastened with galvanized self-tapping screws 5 x 70 mm and anti-wind clamps.		Anti-wind clamp for the first row of cement-sand tiles. On the slopes, the tiles are fastened only with self-tapping screws.
The recommended section of the rafters is at least 50x150 mm, the pitch of the rafters is 60-90 cm in depending on the calculated load and the length of the rafter legs. If the slope of the roof slope is from 10° to 16°, then under the tiles it is necessary to arrange the lower roof, which guarantees complete protection from water and snow: solid flooring from edged or tongue-and-groove boards, OSB, waterproof plywood, and rolled polymer-bitumen or polymer waterproofing .
Marking and laying tiles on hip and hipped roofs start from the middle of the slopes towards the ridges. First, a vertical row of tiles is laid out in the center of a triangular slope in such a way that so that the top of the medium wave of the tile is strictly along the line of the center of the slope.		After laying the lower row of tiles, the vertical rows of cement-sand tiles are marked and the tiles are laid in rows from bottom to top from the middle of the slope in the direction of the ridges. There is a special clip on the wire for fastening the cut tiles.
Ventilation shingles are used to improve the ventilation of the under-roof space in hard-to-ventilate areas where the ventilation gap overlaps, narrows or changes direction.		An example of installing ventilation tiles "to clear one's conscience". Why? Because ventilated skates will do a good job of ventilating the under-roof space.
Of course, ventilation tiles will not be superfluous in the upper part of the cement-tile roof, but in addition to this location, ventilation tiles must be installed: in the valley area, above and below the dormer windows and chimneys, in the area where the roof directly adjoins the wall.		In the case of a design with a cold attic, the under-roof insulation layer should be interrupted under the ridge and form a ventilation gap of 5-10 cm. This solution is especially relevant for worse-ventilated hip roofs compared to gable roofs. If the under-roof space is insulated, then a super-diffusion membrane is used and it must be stretched under the ridge with an overlap and, of course, it does not need to be cut through.
An example of my own mistake with the ventilation of a cold hipped attic. Despite the presence of ventilation windows, moisture still accumulates "under the dome" of the hip and condenses on the films and rafters. As a result, mold growth, even despite the preliminary antiseptic treatment of the rafters.		We correct the mistake: we cut ventilation ducts under the ridge in the under-roof waterproofing: air movement was immediately felt. Then we put on a gas mask, change the sprayer and Neomid mold remover and process the entire roof from the attic side. "Well, work" - I tell you! It was better to read the literature before putting the roof on.
Ventilated skates are mounted on beams on steel supports. The ridge beam must have a cross section of at least 5 x 5 cm and be fixed in the holders with galvanized nails 2.5 x 25 mm (4 nails for each fastener).		Roofing films are laid over the overhang apron or drip (cornice strip) with an overlap of at least 10 cm.
Quite often, they forget about the ventilation of the eaves of the roof. Meanwhile, the ventilation cross section of the vents should be at least 200 cm 2 per 1 running meter of the eaves.		Air elements are placed under ventilated skates to allow air to escape and protect against the ingress of birds and debris.
The waterproofing of the pipe on the roof is carried out using Wakaflex material and Waka clamping strips. The junction of the strips to the pipe is closed with a synthetic rubber sealant.		Cut the waterproofing film with pass at least 10 cm to overlap the pipe. On the slope above the pipe, be sure to follow film drainage groove.

Cement-sand tiles can not only decorate the roof beautifully, but also create a durable and practical roofing. However, the characteristics of the material do not allow its use in certain climatic conditions, which should be taken into account when choosing.

Characteristics of cement-sand tiles

This type of tile consists of quartz sand, dyes, cement, binders and water-repellent additives.

Certain elements are formed from the prepared thick mass, which are then pressed and dried under special conditions. The duration of the process of manufacturing tiles reaches 12 hours: this is how the necessary characteristics of the roofing material are achieved.

The shades of cement-sand tiles are varied due to the use of dyes.

In the manufacture of tiles, the dye is used both for external application and as part of the mass itself. This makes the coating practical, as small chips are invisible on the roof surface.

Cement-sand tiles were invented in the 19th century and immediately began to be produced in England on a large scale. It gained its popularity due to a simplified production technology: unlike ceramic tiles, cement-sand tiles do not need to be fired and glazed.

Video: tile composition, manufacturing process and strength test

Life time

All components in natural tiles are selected with the calculation of successful interaction with each other, so its service life is more than 50 years. Elements created without violating technology and correctly mounted on the roof surface will last up to 100 years. Manufacturers provide a 30-year warranty on their products.

Proper installation ensures long-term and efficient operation of the cement-sand coating

For the longest possible operation, it is important to adhere to certain conditions for laying tiles:

Compliance with the installation rules provides a reliable foundation under natural tiles and contributes to its resistance to climatic and mechanical influences.

Resistance to external influences

Cement-sand tiles are resistant to climatic influences. The coating of such elements practically does not fade under ultraviolet rays, tolerates heavy rains and snowfalls well.

Tiles of all colors are UV resistant

The material easily withstands such influences as:

• frequent precipitation in the form of rain and snow;
• mechanical loads: a layer of snow cap or repair work on the roof;
• exposure to hail, strong winds.

Cement-sand tiles have a high level of strength, so minor repairs can be carried out directly on them without the risk of damage. But you should avoid sharp blows and the impact of sharp objects on the tiles.

The tile can easily withstand the weight of a person, not succumbing to deformation

Frost resistance

The cost of cement-sand tiles is lower than ceramic. Moreover, the characteristics of both practically do not differ either in moisture retention or in frost resistance. They easily tolerate sudden temperature changes within 10 degrees and retain their shape down to -45 ° C.

Installation of tiles can be carried out at temperatures down to -10°C

This material is optimal for use in regions where the air temperature does not fall below 30–35 °C in winter. This allows you to ensure maximum durability of the roof covering and reduce the risk of accidents that may occur due to harsh winters.

Dimensions and shape of tiles

Cement-sand tiles are made in various shapes and sizes: each type has a specific purpose and is mounted in different places on the roof. Therefore, the entire tile is divided into main and additional elements: the roof surface is covered with the main ones, and the joints are closed with additional ones.

Tiles vary in shape: each type is designed to decorate different places on the roof

The following types of natural tiles are produced:

• row (row) - for laying on a flat surface of slopes, where the material is easily distributed in the form of straight rows. It has a wavy shape, and in combination creates a beautiful coating;

  Row shingles fit faster and have a convenient locking fastening

• lateral (pediment) - curved L-shaped, mounted along the edge of the roof gable. Left-handed elements are placed on the left end of the roof, right-handed - on the right, and universal - around the entire end;

  Curved elements are placed along the edges, ensuring the accuracy of the front of the roof

• half - for those areas where row elements are cut at an angle, but it is possible to add small details. This allows you not to waste a full-fledged ordinary tile, cutting it into pieces. Usually half tiles are produced in the size of 420x180 mm;

  Half tiles are convenient for installation in difficult areas

• checkpoint - for installing additional pipes on the roof;

  The passage tile is installed in a certain place where the installation of the pipe is planned

• footrest - for fixing gratings that allow you to move safely for roof maintenance. Their location is determined in advance;

  For ease of movement on the roof footboard tiles are installed

• ventilation - for air circulation in the zone of the valleys, on the ridge or in the area of ​​​​the eaves;

  Installation of ventilation tiles avoids the formation of condensate

• support - for installation sites of snow-retaining ladders. It has greater strength than the in-line one: it allows you to securely fix the ladders and avoid a sharp evacuation of ice;
• ridge (initial and final), end - to close all joints and complete the overall picture of the roofing.

  Additional elements help to harmoniously arrange all the edges and joints on the roof of natural tiles

The most common tile of standard sizes - 420x330 mm. The average consumption of such parts is 10 pieces per 1 m 2.

There is also a tile with dimensions of 410x240 mm: it will require 15 pieces per 1 m 2. But row tiles have such parameters, and connecting additional parts are selected depending on the dimensions of the structure.

Weight of cement-sand tiles

A cement-sand mixture tile is a material similar to fine-grained concrete, but with higher characteristics. In this case, the weight of the elements for the roof is from 45 to 50 kg / 1 m 2.

When designing, be sure to calculate the weight of the roof and the load that it will withstand.

Knowing the average weight of the tiles and the area of ​​the roof, it is easy to determine the mass of the coating.

To calculate the total weight of the roof, it is worth adding the mass of the rafter system, waterproofing material, insulation and lathing to the indicator of the tiles. All this has to withstand the foundation and load-bearing walls.

Advantages and disadvantages

Tiles made of cement-sand mixture have been used for arranging roofs for only about 160 years. But it has already gained popularity due to a number of advantages:

• outwardly similar to ceramic, made in various colors;
• environmentally friendly, not subject to decay and deformation, resistant to various natural influences (except for large hail);
• during installation leaves a minimum amount of waste (about 5%);
• has high sound and thermal insulation, as well as ventilating qualities;
• easy to operate and repair;
• Affordable cost, durable with high-quality styling.

Cement-sand tiles are especially suitable for buildings made of brick or timber

However, this material is not without drawbacks that must be taken into account:

• high weight - suitable only for a reliable stable building, requires the use of equipment for transportation and lifting to the roof;
• a small variety of forms of the main elements;
• weak strength to mechanical stress - requires accuracy during transportation, installation and during operation. Broken elements must be immediately replaced with new ones to protect the building from leaks;
• small-piece material - takes a lot of time for installation;
• surface roughness - delays the convergence of snow, so it is important to strengthen the roof truss system in advance.

Video: features of cement-sand tiles

Tiling installation rules

During installation, it is important to take into account the characteristics of each type of tile and adhere to the fastening technology. Cement-sand tile consists of the following elements:

• the main lock is triple, double or single. Protects the roof from blowing and snow, increases the strength of the coating;
• lateral locks - link tiles together and prevent leakage. Allow to shift parts relative to each other up to 8 cm;
• reinforcing ribs - to strengthen the tiles. Provide strength and stability of each part to various loads;
• rounded edges - allow you to effectively remove precipitation;
• lower hooks - fix the tiles on the crate, help to evenly distribute the weight.

Tiled tiles are diverse and have a well-thought-out structure.

Each tile tile is equipped with fixing holes, which facilitates the laying work.

How to make a crate under the tiles

For the crate, coniferous wood bars with a moisture content of not more than 25% are used, which protects the base from deformation and decay.

On rafters located in increments of no more than 75 cm, bars with a section of 30 × 50 mm are used for mounting the lathing, on rafters with a pitch of not more than 90 cm - bars of 40 × 50 mm. If the pitch of the rafters reaches 110 cm - bars 50 × 50 or 40 × 60 mm. These indicators are universal.

The step of the crate should not be more than the length of the tile

The step of the lathing depends on the slope of the roof.

If the roof has slopes with a slope of up to 22 °, then the distance between the bars is 312–320 m; at an inclination of 22–30 °, the pitch of the crate is maintained within 325–335 mm. If the slope angle is more than 30 °, the crate is placed in increments of 340–345 mm.

When constructing multi-pitched roofs, the distance between the lathing bars is calculated for each inclined surface separately.

Installation Basics

Before starting construction, an antiseptic must be applied from the sprayer to all wooden parts of the roof, and an anti-corrosion agent must be applied to metal parts. After stuffing the crate, the chimney is sealed: a tape with a reinforcing mesh is attached to it. If a valley is provided in the roof structure, then a sealing tape is laid in this area. Then the tiling process begins:

1. The first row is placed from the lower right corner. Tiles should hang over the edge of the roof by no more than 7 cm. The tile is attached to the crate with galvanized self-tapping screws.
2. Further along the edge of the end of the roof, a row is mounted in the vertical direction. Before laying the next strip, a cord is stretched between opposite edges of the roof to ensure that the rows are laid horizontally.
3. Observing the markup and starting from the fixed end parts, horizontal rows are formed.
4. In difficult corners and valleys, a coating of pre-cut elements is laid out.
5. The ridge, connecting and other additional parts are attached last.

Installation of cement-sand tiles in the valley area requires precision in cutting the tiles and correct fastening

Installation can be carried out along the perimeter of the slope or vertically, but the presented method is the simplest and allows you to get even rows.

Video instruction: installation of lathing and laying tiles - in detail, with calculations and measurements

Operation of a tiled roof

You can increase the service life of the cement-sand coating if you follow the operating rules:

• timely replace damaged elements with new ones, carefully removing them;
• clean snow from the roof with a special tool that is not capable of damaging the surface of the tile;
• in the event of a leak inside the building, it is important to immediately identify the cause and eliminate it;

The valley area is most prone to leaks and needs regular inspection.

If during operation a problem arose in a certain place of the coating, then it is imperative to inspect the entire roof to identify the cause. Only after that it is possible to replace the damaged tile or carry out other necessary work.

Photo gallery: cement-sand tile roofs

Dark-colored tiles are practical and make the appearance of the building stylish. Red roof - a sought-after classic for private homes Bright tiles always decorate the roof of the house Cement-sand tiles are suitable for roofs of complex shape A multi-pitched roof covered with cement-sand tiles does not differ in appearance from a ceramic coating For two-story buildings, tiles are optimally suited and make the roof practical in operation. Ridge elements decorate the roof and make it look complete.

The most popular roofing material is cement tiles. This is primarily due to its affordable cost and good performance. Let's look at how to install cement tiles below.

Cement sand tiles - characteristics

The composition of cement tiles contains cement, sand, dyes and various additives. It has certain similarities with tiles made of ceramics, but cement tiles have a much larger scope.

The appearance of the roof on which cement tiles are installed is attractive and noble. In addition, cement tiles over time, exposed to moisture, acquire additional strength.

The principle of manufacturing concrete or cement tiles is to prepare the desired material, press it and dry it under special conditions. If we compare this tile with ceramic, which is fired, then the first option is more durable.

The procedure for making tiles consists in mixing all the dry ingredients, adding water to them, and shaping the tiles in special containers. A long strip is cut into tiles of a certain size. Next, the concrete surface is coated with a primer, and the material can be dried. The procedure for making tiles lasts from eight to twelve hours.

Next, the tile is painted in the desired color, after which it becomes smooth and at the same time acquires additional strength characteristics. Staining helps to give the tiles a presentable appearance. On the street, shingles should stay for about 30 more days. The presence of iron oxide in the coloring pigment helps to make cement tiles look like ceramic ones. In addition, mineral-based dyes are used to color it.

Cement tiles consist of ordinary tiles, but also, for the arrangement of the roof, materials will be required in the form of:

• ridge elements;
• cornice overhangs;
• gable particles;
• ventilation elements;
• snow-retaining materials.

Features and arrangement of cement-sand tiles

Among the advantages of cement tiles are:

• a high level of fire safety, since the roof finished with this material does not burn;
• after installation of the tile, it does not need additional care;
• in addition, the material is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, precipitation, temperature changes and other external irritants;
• the tile shows resistance to frost and does not change color during its operation;
• during wind or rain no noise is heard on the roof.

Cement roof tiles photo:

Another important advantage of cement-sand tiles is the duration of its operation. According to some manufacturers, tiles will last at least a hundred years. In addition, toxic substances are not used for the manufacture of the material, it is safe and harmless to human health. There is a wide range of products according to the color preferences of customers.

The affordable cost of the material is primarily due to the simpler technological process for the manufacture of tiles, compared with ceramics or bituminous coatings. Despite the affordable cost, the material has excellent performance and technical characteristics.

In addition, since there are additional ventilation gaps between the tiles, they provide high-quality ventilation of the under-roof space. This material is not subject to deformation, very reliable, as the tiles are interconnected with a lock.

The tile is very durable, it is able to withstand a load of more than 150 kg. This quality helps the material withstand a large amount of snow on the roof surface.

Despite this, cement-based tiles have the following disadvantages:

• high-quality tiles are distinguished by a decent cost;
• due to the large weight of cement-sand tiles, the material additionally loads the building, therefore, before laying it, additional strengthening of the supporting structures is required;
• it is installed on roofs with a slope, since on a solid roof the tiles will retain snow and moisture on themselves;
• the use of low-quality tiles is fraught with the appearance of pores on its surface, in which moisture accumulates;
• rather high cost of installation work, however, if you perform the process manually, material costs will be significantly reduced.

Please note that the installation of cement-sand tiles is only possible if the roof slope is more than thirty degrees. The use of grooved shingles is permissible on a roof with a slope angle of 22 degrees.

In addition, modern developments in the building materials industry imply the use of certain types of tiles, and on steeper and more sloping roofs. The main rule of their application is to prevent moisture or wind from entering the under-roof space. Although, depending on the strength and angle of the wind, there is a risk of moisture entering even on standard types of roofs, so the use of waterproofing materials in the process of laying the roof is mandatory.

Materials in the form of a waterproofing film are laid directly on the rafters, the material is overlapped by 150-200 mm. Fixation of the material is carried out using wooden planks. After the waterproofing is laid on the surface, the installation procedure for the crate and the finishing material itself follows.

The installation of the crate depends directly on the size of the tiles that will be laid on it. To calculate the parameters and size of the crate, measure the tiles. Based on the tile sample, the amount of materials for the crate is calculated.

To determine the size of the roof to be covered with tiles, twelve tiles must be laid, which must be laid horizontally. In the same way, tiles should be laid in a vertical position. Don't forget to keep clearances.

After the size of the crate is determined, work begins on its installation. On the bottom row, the interval between the tiles is calculated based on the fact that it should hang slightly from the roof. In order to speed up the installation of the crate, use a cut out twilight. To adjust the straightness of the crate, use a cord, with its help, the grate will turn out to be perfectly even.

Start laying cement-sand tiles should be with fixing the bottom row, gradually moving to the top. Please note that after the installation of the bottom row, one row of tiles is laid in the vertical direction, and the cord will help regulate the quality and evenness of the installation.

After installation of each tile, the evenness and horizontality of the coating should be carefully monitored. To fix the tiles on the surface, nails and clamps are used.

Pay special attention to difficult areas of the roof, such as the ridge zone, gable, etc. The laying of the horizontal gable row is completed by the installation of a special material with a curved end. These works require special care, since the interval between the standard and gable tiles must match.

In order to decorate the ridge zone, it is recommended to use special seals made of plastic. With the help of these elements, the waterproofing of the roof in the ridge zone will improve, in addition, they are able to provide high-quality ventilation of this space. The plastic part is mounted on the ridge, superimposed on it and fixed on the tile. To fix the ridge tiles on the timber, it is recommended to use clamps. It is possible to replace plastic parts with tiles with ventilation holes.

The standard option for installing tiles on the ridge area is based on the installation of wooden boards on both sides of the ridge beam, they are covered with special waterproofing, and a small hole remains in the space between them, providing ventilation.

In the same way, cement tiles are installed on sloping sections; a grinder is used to cut the tiles. Please note that on the rib part you will need to install a bar, the same as on the ridge bar. Use clamps to secure all outer coverings.

Among the main types of standard tiles, it is worth highlighting:

• pediment materials;
• ridge tiles;
• tiles with ventilation ducts;
• tile, on which there are special holes.

Installation technology of cement-sand tiles

After purchasing cement tiles, they should be stored outdoors, but preferably under a canopy. In no case should moisture accumulate on it. If the tile is stored outside without a canopy, then it should be covered with a polyethylene film.

Please note that extreme care must be taken when lifting tiles to prevent damage or cracks on their surface. It is recommended to transfer tiles up in piles of 6-7 pieces.

The recommended angle of inclination of the roof for laying tiles is 23-66 degrees. In addition, some tile options are installed in a checkerboard pattern, so the roof becomes more durable.

Before laying cement-sand tiles, it is necessary to install waterproofing in the form of a polyethylene film on the surface of the rafters. To fix this material, use nails or a stapler.

In order to install waterproofing, follow a series of steps:

• try to fix the film in such a way that there is a slight sagging;
• it will ensure the removal of condensate and ventilation of the under-roof space;
• in addition, waterproofing sheets are overlapped by 150 mm; when fixing the material with small galvanized nails, it is recommended to fix them on a wooden plank;
• take care of the presence of a small gap between the insulation and waterproofing, thus, it will be possible to ensure ventilation of the under-roof space;
• in order to build a crate for the installation of cement tiles, it is recommended to use bars, the size of which is about 5x5 cm;
• the step of laying the bars is 320-390 mm.

In addition, the installation of cement tiles must be carried out in accordance with strict rules for the consistent laying of the material. Work starts from the bottom, first of all the bottom horizontal row is laid. You should move from right to left, from the lower right corner. The next row is vertical, it is also laid from the first tile from the right corner and towards the top to the ridge zone.

Gradually, it is necessary to cover the areas located along the perimeter, moving towards the central part. Please note that holes must be drilled in each tile, for this purpose use an electric drill.

Do not punch holes with a nail as there is a risk of damage to the shingles. Please note that the first row is mounted with a slight downward allowance, it will ensure the drainage of water from the roof, and it also helps to improve ventilation in the attic.

Please note that the strength of the entire structure depends on how well the first row of tiles is laid, as it is subjected to the greatest load. You should also pay attention to the ridge zone, since its improper installation can lead to moisture ingress into the attic.

The installation of the ridge completes the work, which improves the presentability of the appearance of the roof and makes it more complete. If there is a need to cut the tiles into pieces, then for this purpose use a cutting machine on which a diamond-coated disc is installed.

Please note that when laying tiles, the load on the roof should be evenly distributed. In order for the tile roof to serve you as long as possible, you should use the services of specialists who will install the tile efficiently and quickly. When installing tiles yourself, we recommend inviting a person who has done this work before.

Installation of cement sand tiles video:

To cover the roof, you can use a variety of materials made of plastic or metal. Cement-sand tiles are considered one of the most beautiful and expensive roof coverings.

Production

There are different types of tiling, it is classified depending on the raw materials used. Ceramic is made from fired clay. To do this, the mineral is diluted with water in certain proportions, after which it solidifies under high pressure. The result is a dense homogeneous, but fragile mass. To reduce brittleness, annealing is necessary, which removes excess air from the pores of the clay and contributes to a better bonding of the particles.

The second type - sand cement tiles - is an analogue of ceramic tiles, but is made from a mixture of stone and cement mortar. For mortar, manufacturers use high-quality raw materials, often cement 200 and above. It combines with water and sand, after which various impurities are added to the finished mass. In order for this material to be dense and resistant to external influences, any other impurities are removed from it.

For the manufacture of cement-sand tiles, only river sand is used, in which the presence of stone is allowed, the particle size of which should not exceed 2 mm. The finished solution is poured into molds. Tiles are produced in batches. It can be of various shapes and colors. By the way, to achieve a certain shade of coating, manufacturers use various types of natural or artificial dyes. The most expensive are the coloring with stone chips of various breeds. A similar technology is also used in the manufacture of bituminous or soft roofing.

The production of cement-sand tiles is possible at home. This does not require special equipment - just correctly calculate the proportions for the mixture and make shapes of the desired section and size.

Video: Cement-sand tiles - composition, production, advantages and disadvantages

Standard dimensions are 420 mm by 330. If necessary, you can make material for a roof with a larger section, but then it will be heavier and more difficult to install.

Main characteristics

The roof, covered with cement-sand tiles, is distinguished by good qualities of resistance to aggressive external factors. It is ideal for harsh Russian climatic conditions. Coverage benefits:

1. Durability. The minimum service life of the coating is 50 years;
2. High frost resistance. This is very important for roofing. Metal and plastic tiles can change from sudden changes in temperature, crack and lose their external qualities. Cement-sand has even higher frost resistance than ceramic, while its price is much lower;
3. Ease of manufacture. If you do not want to buy ready-made material, then it can be easily made at home;
4. Large assortment of colors and shapes;
5. Resistance to physical influences. Ceramic tiles are known for their high fragility. It breaks when falling, shock loads, under the influence of pressure. The cement coating has good flexibility and resistance to torsion deformation.

But, cement-sand tiles also have their drawbacks:

1. With it, the roof becomes very heavy. If you built a house on a pillar or pile foundation, then it is better to use corrugated board or bitumen. A square meter of ceramic and sand tiles can weigh up to 15 kilograms;
2. Poor resistance to fungus. Due to the fact that cement attracts moisture, the use of cement-sand roofing materials can damage the roof. It is not recommended for use in humid areas, as well as near water bodies;
3. The need for reinforced rafter boards. Otherwise, they simply will not withstand the load;
4. Complicated installation. Due to the high weight, installing such a coating on your own is a rather laborious task.

But even comparing all the pros and cons of this coating, the material has more advantages and they are more significant.

Mounting

Laying cement-sand tiles is very similar to installing ceramic tiles. Before the start of the work process, beams are prepared - they are strengthened with props. After that, a crate under the coating is installed on them. The optimal pitch of the crate boards here is 312–345 mm. This is an average parameter, so it is recommended to consult with specialists before using it.

Step-by-step instructions on how to mount cement-sand tiles:

Price overview

You can buy cement-sand tiles at any branded hardware store (Braas - Braas, Sea Wave), its price depends on the impurities and color of the material. Consider what is the cost of Vortex red tiles with a matte surface: