Terra Cotta

13 Jan, 2008 in art pottery by admin

Terra Cotta

The Story Of Spanish Clay Roof Tiles

Terra cotta roofing tiles and clay roofing is perhaps the most ancient of historical building materials. Spanish clay roof tiles are descended from a style that was popular in ancient Rome; this style of roofing is still common in Spain as well as anyplace on the globe that was touched by Spanish influence, including Morocco, the Philippines, Mexico, most of South America, the Caribbean and of course, former Spanish colonial possessions in present-day California, Louisiana and Florida.

What Are Spanish Clay Roof Tiles?

Sometimes known as "mission tiles," these predominantly terra-cotta roofing tiles are generally quarter-round tubes that have ridges etched into them for directing rainwater off the roof while allowing them to be securely interlocked into place. There are also what are known as barrel roof tiles. Formed into a half-round shape, barrel roof tiles are like a half-round tube, and may be installed in alternating vertical rows of convex (outer curved side up) and concave placements. This is yet another unique type of Spanish roof tiles, but barrel roof tiles are less common than the quarter-round mission style of roof tile.

Every region has its own unique style of roofing, and Spanish roof styles are no exception. While terra cotta roofing tiles are common around the world, the shape of roofing materials in each of these regions is unique. Spain has been subject to numerous and diverse cultural influences over the course of its 3,000 year history; repeated invasions and settlements by Celts, Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Goths from Scandinavia, Berbers and Arabs created a unique and vibrant culture that is reflected in the appearance of Spanish roof tiles.

Spanish Clay Roof Tiles Today

Mission, round and barrel roof tiles are all various kinds of kiln-fired roof tiles that you can purchase for your own home today. The only things to keep in mind are: (A) climate and (B) the structure of the home.

If you live in an area that experiences extremely cold and harsh winters. you'll need to find a grade of clay roof tile that is specially treated to stand up to these conditions. In addition, Spanish clay roof tiles are much heavier than comparable composite or even cedar roof shingles, and not all homes are built to withstand the added weight.

Finally, it's important to understand that installation of these fine tiles requires a great deal of skill and patience. It is a job that is best left to experienced professionals.

About the Author

Wayne Hemrick writes about--spanish clay roof tiles.

Can I use a terra-cotta plant pot in the oven?

I broke my terra-cotta garlic roaster. Can I use a regular terra cotta plant pot that hasn't been coated or sealed or painted?

your fancy garlic pot is just that,, fancy
using a flour pot ??? I guess,,, but the pottery plant does not need to keep flower pots clean in production
I'm sure any small oven proof bowl with a lid (the old terra cotta one) will do fine..

The Terra-Cotta Warriors