What are the benefits of engobed roofing tiles compared to standard clay tiles? Is the price of engobed tiles its only drawback? Is engobed tile the ideal choice for every building, or…?
Manufacturers of roofing tiles often offer so-called engobed tiles. Engobed tiles last longer than standard ones and have an appealing aesthetic, but they also come with a significantly higher price. Clearly, this is a higher-quality product compared to standard tiles, but what exactly are we dealing with?
What Is Engobing?
Engobing is the process of applying a special glaze to the surface of tiles, which provides a range of benefits. However, it should be noted that the process of engobing is not simply painting tiles; it’s a much more complex process that ensures the highest possible quality when it comes to clay tiles.
Longevity Through Engobing
Engobe is a mixture of finely ground clay and oxides applied as a coating to the surface of the tile. The high quality of this process is ensured by applying the coating to the tile after shaping and drying it. Only after the coating is applied is the tile fired at temperatures above 1800 degrees Fahrenheit (aprox. 1,000 degrees Celsius).
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During this process, a glaze forms that fuses with the structure of the clay the tile is made of. This layer is of high quality, resilient, and long-lasting. Even ancient clay artifacts, thousands of years old and made using similar methods, remain preserved today.
Of course, no one expects a roof to last thousands of years, but the many advantages of engobed tiles are evident from the start. For one, the moisture absorption rate is lower compared to high-quality standard clay tiles. Classic tiles have a low absorption rate of around 6%, while engobed tiles have an absorption rate below 4%.
The Eco-Friendly Process of Engobing
Thanks to this characteristic, the tile is more resistant to mold, lichens, and moss accumulation. This helps prolong the life span of the entire roof structure. It’s important to note that the engobing process is completely eco-friendly. The coatings do not contain any harmful substances, making engobed roofs completely safe for buildings that collect rainwater.
The Aesthetic Appeal
Another advantage is the aesthetic aspect. Engobing produces tiles in a wide range of attractive colors, and the surface is glossy. This creates a visual impression of superior quality. Additionally, the glossy surface reduces the buildup of dirt, making engobed roofs suitable for luxury buildings.
Potential Drawbacks
However, it should be noted that engobed tiles do have some drawbacks. The most obvious is the noticeably higher price compared to standard clay tiles. Another potential downside is the greater weight of engobed tiles. This means they cannot be installed on every structure.
Additionally, installing engobed tiles requires a stronger roof structure, which further increases costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the advantages of engobed tiles far outweigh the disadvantages, and these drawbacks are mainly related to costs. The question to consider is whether engobed tiles are truly necessary for your needs.
It’s similar to buying a car – do you really need a BMW or Mercedes if a more affordable car can provide similar quality and practical utility under normal conditions?
Photo: Wienerberger