Choosing roof tiles for Kerala rain
Slope, overlap and tile type for a roof that sheds monsoon rain, from the roof tile range at VTJ HOMEDECOR, Koothattukulam.
1. The slope does more than the tile colour
Kerala rain needs a roof that sheds water quickly. A steeper slope drains faster and gives the overlap more help. A nearly flat roof covered with tiles will hold water at the laps. Settle the pitch with your mason before you choose a colour, and confirm the tile the pitch was designed for.
2. Clay tiles and branded concrete tiles
Mangalore-pattern clay tiles are familiar on local roofs and they breathe. Concrete and branded profiles can give a tighter lap and a more even colour. Either way, ridge tiles, eaves tiles and the main tiles should be from one system so the joints fit. VTJ HOMEDECOR keeps roof tiles at the Chorakuzhy showroom, where you can compare the profile and the weight.
3. What fails in the first monsoon
Most leaks start at the ridge, a hip, or a tile that was cut badly around a pipe. Use the matching ridge pieces, bed them properly, and do not rely on a smear of cement to close a gap. Store tiles flat and off the mud so they are not laid already cracked. After the first heavy rain, walk the loft and look for drips while the mason is still on the job.
Conclusion
A rain-ready roof is the right pitch, a full set of fittings, and tiles laid with a proper lap. Compare the profiles at VTJ HOMEDECOR on MC Road, Koothattukulam, before the timber or steel goes up.
