It has been a regular practice that almost every customer has many queries and doubts regarding our Pionnier roof tiles and services. We share this page with everyone with regard to the frequently asked doubts and our response with you.
General questions
The belief that concrete tiles absorb lots of water and double in weight is just that- A BELIEF – and is patently incorrect. An international standard actually specifies maximum water absorption of only 10 per cent after total immersion in water for 24 hours. In practice, the absorption of water by capillary action during periods of heavy rain would increase their weight by around 5 per cent. Contrary to the claims of some roofing companies, this weight increase is unlikely to cause structural roof or stump failure.
The colour coating is purely for decoration and is not designed as a waterproofing film. The waterproofing of a concrete tile is achieved through a carefully graded and formulated raw material which is then compacted during its manufacture. This creates a product of high density and strength which keeps the water out.
With the proven record of resistance to corrosive atmospheres, today’s concrete tiles are very suitable for the roofing of houses in close proximity to the coast. The physical properties of concrete tiles are not affected by prolonged exposure to the coastal environment.
Modern manufacturing processes make concrete tiles exceptionally durable and they will keep you dry and protected for years. These are manufactured as per the International standard norms. The physical properties of concrete roof tiles will remain unchanged for well in excess of fifty years, irrespective of the climate they are subjected to. Concrete tiles actually become stronger with time and have an excellent record of durability under all weather conditions. They outlast most other roofing materials because tiles cannot rust or corrode. You cannot buy a more substantial roofing material. Very few other roofing materials can match this performance.
Any manufactured product or infact any living thing that is exposed to the natural elements will weather and take on a different appearance when compared to that which, are protected and not exposed. With roof tiles, much of what is described as colour fade is in fact atmospheric grime and can be cleaned off if desired. Natural weathering does infact enhance the appearance of many products and it is unlikely that the weathering of the colour coat of tiles will detract from the appearance of the house for a number of years, by which time inevitably the house will have taken on an overall subtle change of appearance.
The colour coat comprises cement of the same quality and characteristics as that used in the body of the tile and having the same initial setting time; good quality synthetic mineral oxide with a high degree of staining power is used to provide the various colours; a fine sand to provide strength and durability. Water content of the colour coat is critical and is constant for all succeeding mixes for any single tile batch production run of one colour.
Concrete tiles are not glazed. At the time of manufacture a clear sealer is applied to the surface of the tile to prevent Efflorescence which is a common chemical phenomenon with concrete products. This sealer has a relatively short design life and will disappear,leaving the colour coat with the matt appearance for which the colour formulation was designed.