Bitumen tiles: pros and cons of flexible coating + styling features

Because of their affordability and versatility, bitumen tiles, also referred to as flexible roofing shingles, have grown in popularity for residential roofs. These tiles, which are made of bitumen and mineral fillers, are renowned for being long-lasting and simple to install. They mimic the appearance of more costly roofing materials like slate or wood shakes and are available in a variety of styles and colors. They are therefore a sensible choice for homeowners trying to attain a desired aesthetic without going over budget.

The affordability of bitumen tiles is one of their main benefits. The cost of purchasing and installing bitumen tiles is substantially less than that of more conventional roofing materials like metal sheets or clay tiles. This makes them the go-to option for homeowners on a tight budget who still want a long-lasting and stylish roofing solution. Furthermore, because they are lightweight, labor costs are decreased during installation because they are simpler to handle and transport.

Bitumen tiles also offer the important feature of flexibility. In contrast to inflexible roofing materials, these tiles are easily able to follow the curves of intricate roof structures, guaranteeing a tight fit and reducing the possibility of leaks. This adaptability also provides for artistic styling possibilities, since distinctive roof designs that improve a home’s overall curb appeal can be achieved with bitumen tiles. There is a bitumen tile option to match any architectural style, modern or traditional.

Nevertheless, before making a final choice, it’s critical to take the disadvantages of bitumen tiles into account. Even though they are strong, they might not last as long as more expensive roofing materials like metal or slate. Bitumen tiles may fade or deteriorate with time due to exposure to weather factors like UV rays and temperature changes. Although they are very adaptable, their aesthetic appeal might not be as authentic as that of natural materials, which homeowners looking for a more upscale appearance might find depressing.

The specifics of the structure and application

One type of soft roof that operates on the roller material principle is the flexible tile. This is essentially a modified roofing material in terms of technology, with improved strength, appearance, and resistance to wear and tear.

It’s cut into pieces with a curly outer edge to make it easier to lay and create a spectacular look. They refer to them as rally, gontins or tiles, and use the analogy of "fish scales" to compare them to wooden roofs.

The same technologies used to produce roller bitumen-polymer roofing coating options are also used in the production of flexible tiles. In its structure, there are a few key layers that are as follows:

  • Glassholst. Serves as the basis of the specified roofing. It is glass -chilling that provides high strength, resistance to chemical, atmospheric, mechanical, biological aggression.
  • Bitumen-polymer shell. It is melted from above and below to glasshold, forms directly the structure of the material and impeccable waterproofing protection. Oxidized and supplemented by polymer components of bitumen has almost zero moisture absorption.
  • External mineral sprinkling. Granular processing on the front side of the roof creates the impression of an expensive natural stone or copper coating. The second role consists in protecting the outer surface of the material from the external negativity occurring during the operation.

To prevent deterioration and collapsing during storage and transportation, the back of the tiles is either coated with a polymer film or dusted with sand. To adhere to the base ready for the roof device, the film or sand must be removed before laying.

Nowadays, a large number of businesses, including both domestic and foreign representatives, are involved in the production of different brands of flexible tiles. Every manufacturer aims to add something special to the process and produce a product with distinct features and technological benefits.

In some, a self-adhesive bitumen composition covers the entire back, adhering tiles to the base and to each other; in others, this material is only applied in stripes. Though not very much, there are differences.

Due to styling, which is essentially the same technology used by all manufacturers, all material varieties are reliably glued to the base and are softened together in a continuous carpet when exposed to UV rays.

Through investigation, we find that bitumen tiles are dual-purpose roofing materials. Although they are valued for their low cost, simplicity of installation, and variety of styling options that resemble expensive materials like wood or slate, they also come with drawbacks, such as maintenance requirements and weather resistance. This article explores the benefits and limitations of bitumen tiles, highlighting their adaptability as an aesthetic material and their flexible coating, assisting homeowners in making well-informed decisions for their roofing requirements."

Pros of use of bitumen hounds

The piece-flexible roof comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and ornamental styles. It is difficult not to find the material required in design among a wide assortment.

Together with the aforementioned priorities, which are supported by the manufacturing characteristics, the benefits and drawbacks of bitumen tiles that are cut into tiles include:

  • Unlimited technological capabilities. Using this type of material, you can equip a roof of any architectural complexity, regardless of the selected configuration and the size of the slopes. Tiles are easily mounted on bulbous domes, multifaceted tent structures.
  • Compatibility. The result of styling perfectly harmonizes with the exterior of low -rise and multi -storey buildings made in any of the currently demanded architectural styles. Suitable for classics, and for stylization under the old days, and for new -fangled design currents.
  • Simple installation. Having familiarized yourself with the rules of styling, the arrangement of the roof using bitumen tiles can be carried out independently. When contacting builders, it is not necessary to hire a large brigade, a couple of people can easily cope with work.

It is hard to overlook the exceptional insulating properties. After sintering in the sun, bitumen tiles create a waterproof carpet that prevents any atmospheric water from adhering to the roofing system’s thickness. The flexible roof effectively blocks out outside noise interference, preventing outside noise from entering housing that has been outfitted with it.

Reproduction is a valuable advantage, to be sure. It is sufficient to replace the damaged section of the roof in the event that one or more neighboring guntins sustain damage; the entire roof does not need to be removed and replaced.

It is best to replace the damaged area with a material of a comparable hue and quality; to do this, keep a pack of materials from the same series on hand so that you can fold the entire roof. Nonetheless, the piece roof’s appearance permits some color variations, so using a marginally different flavor is acceptable.

Bitumed piece coating disadvantages

There is still no ideal solution for a roof, no matter how hard roofing developers and manufacturers try. Similar to rigid bitumen tiles, flexible bitumen has several drawbacks, such as:

  • Back restrictions. The smallest for the possible styling of the angle of inclination of slopes is considered 12º. For gentle structures, the piece roof is not suitable, t.To. Prior to sintering the tiles has many holes that can skip water. They can cause seeping and an obstacle to gluing tiles.
  • The complexity of installation. Despite the simplicity of the technology, styling will still take much more time than when arranging a roof with large -leaf material, for example, profiled with roofing tin or metal tiles.
  • Incompatibility with conventional roofing material. As a waterproofing lining carpet, it is unacceptable to use a traditional roofing material that can “pull” bitumen components from the roofing, which ultimately leads to destruction, and in places and to bloating the roof.

Furthermore, a regular roofing material uses a lot less working resources than its upgraded equivalent, which is used to create flexible tiles. Setting up a base that will be less useful for coating application is unreasonable.

Step -by -step styling technology

The steps involved in building a flexible tile roofing system are carried out in the order specified for all kinds of roofs. The base must first be ready, after which the markings are completed, the material chosen for the arrangement is positioned, and finally, extra components are added.

When installing bitumen tiles, the same procedures are followed, but there are a few technical nuances that we will now examine.

Stage #1: The process of preparing the base

With the FSF or OSP-3 plates labeled, flexible tiles are positioned on a continuous crate made of shopant or trimmed board that is resistant to moisturizing plywood. It is crucial that the material used for the base of the base maintains its thickness, particularly if a board is being used.

When moisturizing, it is important to monitor the technological gaps in the crate device to guarantee linear material expansion. Leave 3-5 mm "gaps" between the slabs and the boards. Beginning at the bottom edge of the roof, the board is laid along the outline’s cornice.

Cross-shaped compounds shouldn’t be the result of mounting the slabs in a way that makes them look like brickwork. If the crate device is used in the summer, it is acceptable to close the gaps or minimize their size. Depending on the rafters’ step, the base thickness for a flexible coating is chosen.

A waterproofing carpet is placed beside the crate; for this apparatus, you must use the material suggested by the bitumen tile manufacturer for the type of bitumen chosen for application. The conventional roofing material is unsuitable for these uses, as was previously mentioned. Furthermore, the strength of the roof’s guarantee diminishes with use.

In order to construct and fortify the roof’s perimeter prior to the installation of the waterproofing device, metal protection is as follows:

  • Cades. Mount before the device of the waterproofing carpet. Fix them to the crate, placing in a checkerboard pattern 10-15 cm. Fasteners are used galvanized with wide hats.
  • Parts. Are installed above lining waterproofing along the edge of the pedimental overhangs. They are fixed in the same way.

Generally speaking, the standard length of the strips is insufficient for installation along the whole length. By applying the next comparable element banally and overlapping it by the preceding three to five centimeters, they are made longer. Here, fasteners are positioned two centimeters apart.

Stage #2: The implementation of waterproofing works

Manufacturers typically create every part of the roof device, including the waterproof lining carpets, themselves. They are not sprinkled with granules and are instead made of a bitumen and polymer mixture that is thinner than the coating itself.

The steepness of the design determines the waterproofing lining device’s specificity if:

  • Slope within 12-18º. Arrange a continuous waterproofing protection with a preliminary fastening of duplicate waterproofing in areas in which the probability of leaks is the greatest, which include all convex and concave corners of structures, cornices, penetrations, and pedimental overhangs.
  • Slope over 18º. Waterproofing protection is placed only on areas of possible leaks – the very curved and convex corners, t.e. In the yndovs, along the Valmov and skate ribs, along the cornices, along the front -ton overhangs and around the passages of communication pipes through the roof.

In the first example, horizontal stripes are applied to the continuous waterproofing carpet, beginning at the cornice line. Problem areas are better waterproofed with a self-giving water-repellent material before it is laid.

Each successive canvas is laid out horizontally with longitudinal linen, overlapping the one before it by 10 cm. This location completely excludes moisture from entering the roofing system. Overflows are 15 cm in the longitudinal direction.

The insulation is glued fragmented in the second instance. The water-repellent bitumen mastic is adhered to with a self-adhesive rolled material along the apple lines and cornices. Lower waterproofing protection can be used in convex corners and along pedimated overhangs.

A 1 x 1 meter lining carpet is glued in the locations where the sewer, ventilation, chimney, and other communications meet.

Stage #3: Roof marking before laying

In order to expedite, facilitate, and systematize the roofer’s work, marking is essential. It is most practical to review and modify the roof at this point. The majority of the time, equipped stingrays have some vertical and horizontal geometric deviations.

Construction cord that has been coated is used for marking. The lines drawn with its assistance do not serve as a rigid reference point for roofers; rather, they serve to indicate the general direction and prevent deviation when doing styling work.

Along and across the skate ribs, the lines "draw." The bitumen gunt’s width is equal to the longitudinal marking’s step. The horizontal guides are spaced out into five standard rows, or roughly 80 centimeters.

You should choose the point at which the flexible tile fastening will start while marking. Everything is dependent upon the slope’s length as well as the size and form of the bitumen tiles’ outer edge’s curly teeth.

The racetra is laid starting from the center on notably long slopes. If there is a possibility of piece roof displacement in a horizontal direction, leveling out a row is easier. To minimize cutting, you must determine in advance how many unstable elements will fall on the surface in order to properly lay the bitumen tiles for short slopes.

Stage #4: Flexible tile installation

Take into consideration the process of installing asphalt tiles using the example of shinglas material, which is sold by Technonikol. The materials in her assortment had different tones for symmetrical and asymmetric external teeth.

The tiles in the upper portion are either affixed with an adhesive back or glued to mastic, depending on the coating. In the second option, the protective polymer film can be disconnected and the gunt can be attached to the desired location without the need for mastic, just like with regular tiles.

Every tile must be broken. Wide roofing nails are used to secure individual tiles to a base that has been prepared, guaranteeing a sturdy attachment of flexible materials, such as hats. The steepness of the structure determines how many fixation points are needed.

Deviations from the obvious perpendicular nail clogging are not acceptable. Place them two to three centimeters away from the edge. The fastening points of the underlying tiles are concealed from view and shielded from rust by the teeth of the laid on top of the row closed.

Lay the starting strip before beginning to fix flexible tiles. It can be applied independently by chopping off figured ledges and peppers from regular bitumen tiles, or it can be used in a finished form specifically designed for skating cornice decorations.

In every subsequent row, flexible gunt is laid with a displacement such that the petal covering the two underlying joints is slightly above them. Although shifting is required, there are no precise guidelines for choosing the drawing—which is crucial because it closes the fixation points.

No matter the characteristics of the series, bitumen mastic is usually applied at least 10 cm in order to lubricate the extreme tiles. This is required to shield the roof from persistent downpours.

The entire slope is covered in flexible tiles, with the exception of the 0.5 cm ridge ridge and the edge of the ribs.

Stage #5: the device of yends, adjoining, skate

Bitumen tiles need a decorative protective design, just like any other type of coating. It will give the roof a sense of aesthetic completion and shield its edges from potentially damaging atmospheric phenomena.

Endovs have both an open and a closed path. The initial tiles claimed that they were just placed over the waterproofing carpet that had been installed in the scam. Nevertheless, the edge of the tiles that fall into the yndov is not secured or nailed, and it is about 30 centimeters away from the yendova axis.

Following the installation of flexible tiles entirely on neighboring slopes using coated lace, two parallel lines are beaten off, indicating the location of the excess coating to be cut. Depending on the slope of the slopes, the distance between the lines varies from 5 to 15 cm. Rhizons are arranged as follows: wide on gentle structures, narrow on steep roofs.

The second method involves starting with tiles on a moderate slope and then cutting a 30-cm entrance into a nearby steep surface. Every tile is additionally fastened with nails to its upper corner.

Once the entire slope has been arranged, a coated lace is used to beat off the line of the next cut. It is done seven centimeters away from the hinge axis. This line is taken into consideration when placing flexible racetracks on a steep slope, and they are cut during the attachment process. In areas where cut tiles lack an adhesive backing, mastic is applied to enhance their adhesion.

A wooden rail that dissolves over its length on the diagonal equips the adjacent space. The wall measures five centimeters. The triangular rail is fastened to the walls, a ventilation shaft, a brick pipe, etc. in a lover line. D.

Brick surfaces are primed and plastered before being arranged. Install the waterproofing carpet after the rail has been laid, making sure that one edge extends at least 10 cm to a vertical surface. The horizontal surface is adhered to by the second edge.

At the intersections of the roof, metal strips are positioned, with the upper shelf of each strip buried 1.5 cm below the surface of a brick wall. To accomplish this, select a stroke, and then fill the entire "groove" with a sealing tool once the bar has been established there.

Specialized components that seal the passage are released in order to arrange the antenna and ventilation pipe output points. Their use expedites the process and makes the roofer’s job much simpler.

Skate-carnious elements, divided into three tiles along the perforation line, are used to arrange the holly and ridge ridges. By removing the petals and cutting it into three sections, you can utilize regular tiles.

A coated lace is traditionally used to beat off an outbreak prior to the ridge finish being fastened. The half-bent tiles are positioned from the side that faces the predominant winds in that specific area. For every earlier one, the later one. At least 5 cm should overlap.

The ridge tiles’ open portion should be oriented toward the direction of the wind after they are fastened. in order to prevent the impulses from appearing to flow in his direction and "shake" the flexible tiles.

The convex corners on the hollow roofs are first outfitted, and a skate assembled from Gont is used to close the peak of each. Aerators are installed to provide ventilation in the roofs described in this manner.

The skating aerator closes the skate rib if ventilation through it is to be built. Alternatively, ridge tiles can be attached to two boards joined at an angle.

Pros of Bitumen Tiles Cons of Bitumen Tiles
1. Affordable and cost-effective roofing option. 1. Susceptible to cracking and blistering in extreme weather.
2. Easy to install, lightweight, and flexible. 2. Not as durable as some other roofing materials.
3. Available in a variety of styles and colors. 3. Requires regular maintenance and periodic resealing.
4. Provides good waterproofing and insulation. 4. May not withstand heavy impact or foot traffic well.

Bitumen tiles provide homeowners with a flexible roofing option that comes with a number of noteworthy benefits. Because of their adaptability, they can be installed more easily even on non-standard roofs and are suitable for a wide range of roof shapes and contours. Because of their ability to tolerate heat expansion and contraction without breaking or splitting, their flexibility also adds to their durability.

The cost-effectiveness of bitumen tiles in comparison to alternative roofing materials like clay or slate is one of their main advantages. They offer people wishing to install or replace a roof an affordable alternative without sacrificing quality. Furthermore, because they are lightweight, the building’s structural load is reduced, which is advantageous for older buildings in particular.

The variety of styles available to homeowners for bitumen tiles has increased dramatically in recent years, providing a broad spectrum of colors and textures to match a variety of architectural styles. There is a bitumen tile option to fit every aesthetic preference, whether you like the sleek, contemporary appeal of smooth finishes or the traditional appearance of slate.

It’s crucial to take into account a few possible disadvantages, though. Although bitumen tiles are strong, their lifespan might not be as extended as that of metal or clay roofing materials. Furthermore, over time, the need for sporadic maintenance and repairs may outweigh their initial cost savings.

In conclusion, a lot of homeowners find that bitumen tiles are a functional and attractive roofing option. Their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and assortment of designs render them a feasible choice for projects involving both new building and roof restoration. Homeowners can make an informed choice based on their budget and unique needs by weighing the benefits and drawbacks.

Video on the topic

Flexible bitumen tiles – features and advantages of the roof

Bitumen tiles on a house from SIP panels in Crimea | Series 5

Inspection of a problem roof | Flexible tiles of crack in the skate.

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Denis Shcherbakov

Professional roofer with 20 years of experience. I know everything about the installation, repair and maintenance of various types of roofs. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

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