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The origins of clay roof tiles may in fact go back to the beginnings of recorded civilization; they were known to the ancient Egyptians as well as the Indus River civilization, and terra cotta roof tiles dating back to the 4th millennium before the Common Era have been found at archeological sites in Greece and present-day Iraq.
French roofing tiles bear very little resemblance to their ancient predecessors. Although present-day France was once part of the Roman Empire (when it was known as Gaul) and was strongly influenced by Roman culture and architecture, except in the southern region of Provence, the climate is unsuitable for the Mediterranean type of tile. Shingles made from slate eventually became more common in the northern part of the country. Even today, most French roof tiles are likely to be tile shingles.
Materials Used in French Roof Tiles
It is likely that the Normans (actually Scandinavian settlers who eventually adopted the French language and culture) introduced French style roofing tiles to England starting in the 13th Century AD. Restricted to homes of royalty, nobility and aristocrats as well as religious structures such as cathedrals, these tiles could vary a great deal in terms of shape, size and color. Although kiln-fired clay could be used, slate was also a common material - and more suited to the damp northern climate.
French roofing tiles go back at least to the early Middle Ages; at least one company has been in the business of manufacturing French roof tiles since the mid-1500s. These quality tile shingles are still available today to homeowners in Canada and the U.S.
French roof tiles may also be made of ceramic; alternatively, French style roofing tiles may be made out of any material, including clay - provided that the clay has been suitably treated to stand up to the climate. There are in fact three grades of French style roofing tiles, each of which is rated for a different level of cold. Grade 1 is recommended for climates such as Montana and Alberta; these are of course the most expensive type. Grade 3 is fine for use on homes in areas such as Phoenix, Las Vegas and Southern California.
Keep In Mind...
If you plan to use French roofing tiles, remember that although they are quite durable, they are also much heavier than standard composite roofing materials. Make certain your structure can bear the increased load before installing French style roofing tiles.
