Follow our practical guide to specifying your new roof covering – from sorting out the quantity and quality, through to the detailed decisions you’ll need to pin down

Above: Slates from Cupa Pizarras ooze kerb appeal on this timber-clad home. 

Roof tiles are a key element of establishing your home’s character and kerb appeal. So, even if you have an architect, project manager or main contractor overseeing your scheme, it’s still worth understanding the ins-and-outs of specifying, ordering and installing them. Here’s what you need to know.

Roof tile basics

There are myriad styles, colours and materials to choose from, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding a product that will suit your build. Clay and slate are popular natural options, for instance, offering durability and longevity at a premium price – with decisions to be made in terms of colour, profile, handmade versus machine made, and other key areas. Concrete tiles are a widely-used alternative; they’re much cheaper and come in a plethora of shades, but aren’t as durable and tend to fade over time. You can find out more about the material options on our website at www.self-build.co.uk/which-roof-covering.

Bear in mind your planning consent may include a condition to submit samples for approval, so the council can ensure you’re selecting something that suits the local vernacular. Some may even limit you to a menu of styles and colours to pick from; and if you’re renovating, you’ll probably need to stick to a product that’s as close to the existing covering as possible. When specifying, be sure to call in samples from different suppliers. This is the best way to get a sense of the quality of the product. Most will be happy to make suggestions to suit your design.