Specifiers are increasingly advising project teams on the benefits of metal roof tiles, which is music to the ears of contractors who, as much as anyone else, appreciate this lightweight alternative to traditional materials.

The advantages of metal roof tiles go beyond their manoeuvrability, and although this practical benefit shouldn’t be downplayed, there are other more persuasive reasons for why specifiers are turning their backs on concrete.

Based on our order book, specifiers are choosing metal roof tiles for even the biggest build projects and developments, underlining the high esteem with which they are held.

So, just what is it about metal roof tiles that has convinced specifiers that they are the future of construction, after many years of concrete being the default roof material of choice?

Durability

The newest iteration of metal roof tiles can, crucially, match traditional materials on durability. In fact, steel tiles, if properly maintained, have the ability to last significantly longer than other tile types.

A few years ago, it would’ve been hard to make a case for metal tiles as a viable alternative to concrete, based solely on grounds of durability. But lightweight steel roofing has evolved to become a product that can be depended upon for upwards of 60 years.

Metrotile’s lightweight roof tiles have been tested in the most extreme conditions, standing strong in the face of cyclones in Japan and winds in California.

Installation

As well as being a lot easier to manoeuvre around, both in transit and on work sites, lightweight metal roof tiles are also quicker to install compared to traditional materials.

With tiles coming in larger panels rather than individual tiles, an accomplished contractor will be able to install them in double-time (although the installation process varies depending on the size of the project).

Without wishing to state the obvious, a quicker installation time means a speeded-up completion time for the project. Who doesn’t want that?

Noise

One of the old criticisms of metal roof tiles was that they were not rain-friendly. For some occupiers, the sound of rain hitting a metal roof was an unwelcome distraction.

However, excessive rain noise is no longer an issue with the latest metal roof tiles. Noise can be minimised by using materials that have structural barriers. For example, Metrotile roof tiles produce a low-noise system due to its stone coating compound, coupled with the vapour-permeable underlay butted beneath each profile.

So, when the rain hits, occupiers can be assured that they’ll still be able to hear themselves think – while they can also rest easy in the knowledge that their metal roof is practically impervious to rain (and snow) thanks to its inherently slippery surface.

Heat

When designing a construction development, energy consumption is now a major consideration. With metal roof tiles, building occupiers can keep the use of fans and air conditioning to a minimum during the height of the summer. That’s because metal reflects radiant heat from the sun, minimising midday heat gain.

Going the other way, metal is low in insulation R-value. But this can be negated by pairing it with rigid-foam insulation that has very high R-values. In addition, you could ensure dead-air space between the metal and roof deck to increase energy efficiency.

Have you had your head turned to the benefits of metal roof tiles?

Metrotile, the leading supplier of lightweight steel roofing, offers a 40-year weatherproof guarantee, if the existing roof structure is signed off by a certified Metrotile representative prior to the installation of the tile system.

Want to hear more? Get in touch today on 01249 658 514 to talk through your options.