Across the UK, concrete tiles have long been the standard choice for rooftops on all types of developments.

But are these porous heavyweights always the right choice – particularly when it comes to low-pitch roofs tiles? Could metal roof tiles offer a superior alternative?

Metal roof tiles provide a cost-effective, lightweight solution that will keep roofs and buildings in top-notch condition, even when their pitch is low.

Whether you’re specifying roof tiles for a housing development, a school, a hospital or a leisure amenity, lightweight meal roof tiles offer a robust, weatherproof solution that will last.

Lightweight roof tile technology

The Metrotile system is made from Aluzinc steel, and offers unparalleled strength and durability.

It is very lightweight: seven times lighter than traditional roof tiles. That makes it easy to transport to the site and onto the roof, and ideal for pitches where heavier materials can cause strain, cracks and leaks.

Metrotile roof tiles are cut during installation to fit the valleys and hips of the roof profile, then combined with a granular anti-corrosion paint. As the material is non-porous, it offers excellent weather resistance: it’s survived testing in extreme conditions such as cyclones in Japan and winds in California.

That toughness protects your building from vandals and burglars, too.

Metrotile is rated as a Class A non-combustible material, and the system’s stone coating compound, coupled with the vapour-permeable underlay butted beneath each profile, makes it low noise.

No maintenance is required, and moss or debris build-up does not affect its longevity.

The variety of profiles, finishes and colours means there is no need to compromise on aesthetics, and allows you to match existing roofs exactly.

The cost of the Metrotile system is comparable with other tiles, with discounts available.

The low-down on low-pitch roof tiles

Metal tiles are especially useful for low-pitched roofs, which place a lateral strain on walls and therefore require a lightweight yet robust covering.

They come in several profiles, some suitable for pitches as low as 10-12 degrees. In general, tiles with low profiles are best for low pitches as they allow better run-off.

Our shingle can be used down to a 15-degree pitch, while bond, Slate .900, Woodshake and Roman profiles go down to 12 degrees.

Raising the roof: flat to pitch conversions

The problems with flat roofs are well known and widespread. They are liable to weather damage and attractive to burglars, and UVPC roofing membranes have a relatively short-life span. Consequently, flat roofs are high maintenance – and high in insurance costs.

Raising the roof pitch just to 12-15 degrees can be a cost-effective way of fixing those flat roof problems, allowing water run-off and tougher tiles.

Metrotiles make the ideal covering for new rafters. Not only are they lightweight yet robust, they also come in six different colours, plus a variety of finishes and profiles, so you can choose one which matches the existing roofs on your building best.

Case study: Southport College

Over the past decade, Southport College has converted all its flat roofs to pitched.

When it came to converting the science block, they wanted to take advantage of the south-facing roof slope to reduce their carbon footprint and their energy costs.

They also needed the work done and dusted during the summer holidays to avoid any disruption.

Metrotile provided the ideal solution. It offered photovoltaic panels integrated into tiles, making installation a simple and swift process. The tiles interlocked and were screwed rather than nailed, so should a cell be damaged it can easily be replaced.

As there were no special flashings or mounting systems, and no other waterproofing or sealing materials required, installation was quick and easy.

Work began at the start of the holidays with the installation of a steel frame to convert the flat roof to pitch. By the end of the holidays, the roof was complete and the PV system was ready to go live for the start of the new school term.

To hear more about how Metrotile could work for you and your buildings, call the team on 01249 658 514.