Roof replacement and repair projects can be tricky to navigate. With so many different types of roof tiles to choose from it can be hard selecting the right kind for your renovation.
Reclaimed slates and reclaimed clay pantiles are two of the particularly popular roofing options, but how do you know which is right for your project?
In this article, we will cover the difference between slates and pantiles and help you select the right variety for your next building renovation.
This image shows our reclaimed roofing slate – Premium Welsh Purple and our concrete pan tiles – Marley Double Roman
WHAT ARE RECLAIMED SLATES?
Slate tiles are a type of natural stone roof tiles that are made out of metamorphic rocks. Reclaimed slate is a beautiful natural material that is available in a variety of shades depending on the exact mineral composition. The most common colour variations in slate include green, purple, black and grey.
WHAT ARE RECLAIMED CLAY PANTILES?
Pantiles are large roof tiles that are made from clay. In comparison with slates that are cut from natural stone, they are made by pressing clay into a mould and firing it in a kiln.
Since clay can be coloured, this type of roof tiles can be found in more shade variations. The classic red clay pantiles, however, are the most popular option.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
The first major difference between slates and pantiles is their general shape. Because they are cut from rocks, slate roof tiles are flat and often have natural ridges and imperfections. Clay pantiles have a distinct S-shape and because they are machine-produced have a much smoother surface.
Another big difference is the way they are layered when installed. Pantiles are side lapping with the end of each tile overlapping the one below. Slates, on the other hand, are installed so each tile is sitting in the middle of the two tiles below. This difference in installation creates a different effect on the looks of your roof.
BENEFITS OF RECLAIMED SLATES
So why should you use reclaimed slates rather than reclaimed clay pantiles? Here are a few of the reasons:
UNIQUE LOOK
One of the biggest advantages of reclaimed slate is its unique look. Slate tiles have a certain old-fashioned look that can’t be replicated by any other material.
Slate is an incredibly attractive material to use in old properties where pantiles or other roof options might look too modern.
DURABILITY
Reclaimed slates are extremely durable and can withstand a great level of weathering and wear over the years. Slate tiles are resistant to cracks, chips and scratches. This means you can rest assured you won’t have to worry about your roof for at least a few decades.
BENEFITS OF RECLAIMED PANTILES
What about pantiles you might ask? There are also certain advantages to using reclaimed clay pantiles. Here are some of the main ones:
PRICE
In comparison to slate roof tiles, clay pantiles are a more affordable option, because they are made of cheaper materials. Just because they don’t cost as much, though, doesn’t mean pantiles are not as durable.
Clay pantiles are still very durable and will last for as long as half a century.
AVAILABILITY
The second advantage of using pantiles rather than slate is the fact they are widely available. Since they’re a more recently manufactured material, clay pantiles are much easier to source compared to natural slate.
WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR PROJECT?
Whether to choose slates or clay pantiles for your roof project depends very much on the building you’re renovating.
While both options look great, slates are a much more suitable option for an older house such as a cottage or a small bungalow. The natural look of the stone and jagged edges provide a rustic look which is fantastic for aged properties.
Clay pantiles, on the other hand, have a more traditional look that is suitable for mid-century to modern properties. They are also a cheaper option if you’re renovating on a tight budget.
Whichever option you select for your building renovation, you can rest assured that your roof will last for many decades.
SHOP RECLAIMED ROOF TILES AT CAWARDEN
If you’re looking for reclaimed roof tiles, whether it is reclaimed slates or reclaimed clay pantiles, you’ll find what you need on our website.
As the UK’s reclamation specialist, here at Cawarden Brick & Tile Company, we provide a wide range of building materials for all of your renovation projects.
Browse our full range of reclaimed materials today and give our team a call to place your order.