Choose metal tiles or flexible tiles. What is better: metal tiles or soft roofing - comparison of materials

Soft roofing and metal tiles are roofing materials that are popular today and have qualities such as long service life, reliability and aesthetic appearance. When you need to choose one of the presented options, complexity arises and the developer gets lost.

To know exactly which material is best suited for a particular building, it is necessary to consider separately the positive and negative aspects of each.

Pros and cons of metal tiles

Metal tiles are roofing materials made from metal. Its surface is coated with zinc and colored polymer. By appearance metal tiles resemble natural tiles. The main advantage of metal tiles is that they can be used for arranging any structure, even if it has too complex angles. The only condition is the presence of a slope angle (14 degrees). This will prevent precipitation from accumulating.

The photo shows a metal roof:

The advantages of metal tiles include:

1. Long service life of 50 years.
2. The material can be used in any climatic conditions. He is not afraid of temperature changes from -50 to +70 degrees.
3. Installation of metal tiles can take place at any time of the year, as they are not afraid of temperature fluctuations.
4. The weight of 1 m2 is 6 kg, thanks to which the material can be installed on the sheathing and for houses with a light foundation. In addition, the lightness of the sheets makes the installation process easier.
5. A wide range of. In stores, metal tiles are presented in various colors and forms.
6. Metal tiles are highly resistant to fire.
7. The roof made from this material is durable, as it has minimal amount seams.
8. Roofing material is supplemented necessary components for installing not only the roof, but also drains, ebbs and other structural parts.
9. Installation speed. Two workers can cover 2 m2 using special screws in one shift.
10. Metal tiles do not need to be dismantled before installation flat roof. Installation of new sheets can occur directly on roofing felt or roofing felt, which will become an additional layer of thermal insulation.

What's in the video metal tiles are better or soft roof:

As for the disadvantages, they include:

1. If the roof has a complex shape, then when cutting the canvases you need to adjust the pattern. This leads to waste of material.
2. Low level of sound insulation. During heavy rain or wind, all sounds will be heard in the house. This problem can be solved by laying a soundproofing substrate.
3. The metal tile has a relief so that snow does not roll off it. To avoid this, it is important to observe the angle of the roof during installation.
4. Low resistance to mechanical influences. When installing sheets, scratches may occur on them, and this will lead to corrosion. Consequently, the service life of the material will be much shorter.

What types of Monterrey metal tile coverings exist and how to make them right choice. information will help you understand

Pros and cons of soft roofing

Soft roofing or bitumen shingles are another popular roofing material that has the following advantages:

1. Long service life, which can reach up to 50 years.
2. Low percentage of waste during installation. When installing the material on roofs with complex shapes, waste consumption will be about 5%.
3. Large range of colors and shapes, so choose perfect option it won't be difficult.
4. High level of sound insulation. You don’t have to worry that when it rains, all sounds will be heard in the house.
5. Snow holders can be installed on a roof made of soft tiles, since the snow does not fall off like an avalanche.

On the video - which roof is better, soft or metal tiles:

The disadvantages of soft tiles include:

1. High cost of installation. If you do all the work yourself, you can save money.
2. Price. And although the price of the material itself is the same as metal tiles, you still need to buy a number of additional elements for it, which will result in a tidy sum. Installation of a soft roof can only take place on a flat surface. This will require additional expenses on OSB-3 boards
3. Weight. Soft tiles quite heavy, 1 m2 weighs 15 kg.

Comparison

To understand which material is better, you need to compare all of them. quality characteristics to then make your choice.

Appearance

If we consider best material from an aesthetic point of view, both materials benefit. Soft tiles and metal tiles are available in a wide range of colors and shapes.

Although metal tiles can be presented in several textures: glossy, matte, embossed. But the soft roof has a layer of stone chips on top, which increases the strength characteristics of the material and gives the surface roughness.

Product weight

The weight of metal tiles ranges from 3 to 6 kg per 1 m2, and the thickness is 0.45-0.55 m. Since cold-rolled steel was used for the manufacture of the material, this thickness is excellent for a durable coating.

Flexible tiles has a weight of 7 to 15 kg per 1 m2, and a thickness of up to 5 mm. At the same time, both materials do not create a special load and can be used for lightweight roofing construction.

Strength and hardness

Here the leading position is occupied by metal tiles. This light material and durable, and the installation process can be carried out on a lattice frame without fear. Soft material It won’t be able to keep its shape, so it needs to be laid only on a solid sheathing, unlike other brands.

To do this, you will have to use plywood or OSB boards, and this increases costs.

Easy to install

The process of laying metal tile sheets is not that complicated, even if they are long. But if you use them to arrange a roof of complex shape, then it will be difficult to do this. 1/3 of the material will go into leftovers that cannot be used later. In addition, you will need to purchase auxiliary elements, which again will affect costs.

But soft tiles are perfect for installing roofs of various shapes, even the most complex ones. Although its installation can only be performed at temperatures above zero. But metal tiles can be laid in any weather conditions.

Lifetime

The manufacturer of metal tiles guarantees that they will last you 5-120 years, although in practice it reaches up to 5 years. The period depends on the quality of the polymer used to cover the sheets and on climate conditions.

And here flexible roofing can last 30-50 years, since the material with which the sheets were covered does not corrode. Despite this, soft roofing does not tolerate cold well, and this limits its use.

Price

If you buy metal tiles, then 1 m2 will cost you 200-480 rubles. If you use elite class material, its cost will be 1200 m2. The price of flexible material is 230-570 rubles, elite class – 2000 rubles.

Every person is faced with a choice from time to time. And this choice is not always easy. If speak about construction industry, then the owner will have to face many different elections: what the house is built from, what kind of foundation to make, how many floors are needed, how to insulate the house, etc. Special attention is given to the roof. Firstly, you need to decide on its design, and secondly, choose the material for the cladding. Everyone wants their roof to be beautiful, reliable and durable. Some of the most popular roof finishing materials today are metal tiles and soft roofing. And here again the owner has a choice. What is better for roofing, metal tiles or soft roofing?

To find out, you need to look at each of these different materials and compare them across several categories. This will help you make your choice.

Metal tile characteristics and description

What is metal tile? This is a roofing material made of metal. Galvanized steel sheets of different thicknesses are used. In this case, a certain pattern arises: the thicker the metal tile sheet, the stiffer the roof structure will be. Metal tiles are produced in different color scheme, which allows you to decorate your home in different stylistic directions.

What is the structure of metal tiles? The sheet consists of the following layers:

1. The outer protective layer is made of polymer (plastisol or polyester). It is he who sets the color of the metal tile.
2. The layer of soil that creates good foundation under the outer layer.
3. A layer of passivation (protection against corrosion), in which the surface of the metal passes into a passive state.
4. Galvanized layer.
5. Steel base.

After which there is another layer of galvanization, a layer of passivation and protective painting. The photo shows how everything looks in cross-section.

Sheet sizes:

• width - from 110 to 120 cm;
• length - from 40 to 600 cm.

Metal tiles are quite easy to install; they have a small specific gravity and inexpensive. The main advantages of the material are light weight (1 m2 weighs no more than 7 kg), speed and ease of installation, accessibility, reliability, durability and low price. The downside is that rust can form over time; when it rains, the metal makes a lot of noise.

Soft roof characteristics and description

This is a roofing material made from bitumen sheets. They can be flat or wavy. The coating looks quite beautiful, and just as in the first case, the color scheme is quite varied.

What can we say about the structure of bitumen shingles? It consists of the following elements:

1. A layer of colored stone granules that perform a decorative function.
2. A layer of modified bitumen of the best quality.
3. The base is made of high-strength fiberglass. It is like a layer between bitumen layers.
4. Another layer of bitumen.
5. Self-adhesive layer.
6. Silicone film that is removed to apply tiles.

If we talk about the advantages of the material, it is important to note its noiselessness and variety of sheet shapes. And most importantly, bitumen shingles can be laid on a roof that has the most complex structure and shape. For example, it will not be possible to treat a domed roof with metal tiles, but bitumen material will cope with the task without any problems. It doesn't matter what surface it is.

Sheet sizes:

• width - 35 cm
• length 100 cm.

Criterias of choice

We learned the characteristics of both materials. But what is better, soft roofing or metal tiles? Let's compare materials according to 9 criteria to find out the answer to this question.

Base and rafter system for material

Since the covering will be mounted on the sheathing, you need to find out which one to install for each material. Both coatings have a small mass, so in theory, rafter system for them you can do it in increments of 600-800 mm. The cross-section of the beams for the rafters is 200×50 or 150×50 mm. In practice, everything looks different.

As for metal tiles, the sheathing pitch is chosen depending on the wave pitch of the sheet. Typically, this parameter depends on the type of metal tile and is 30-35 cm. This is enough for the coating to hold firmly and perform its functions.

But with a soft roof everything is a little different and more complicated. You cannot place sheets on the sheathing, as they do not hold their shape and will sag. The soft roof is flexible, so for its installation it is necessary to equip a solid base. The structure being constructed must be made of OSB boards.

Advice! In some cases, the use of waterproof plywood is permitted.

It is clear that solid construction quite reliable, retains heat and muffles unnecessary sounds. However, the construction of a continuous sheathing requires both additional time and effort, and additional funds. On average, for 1 m2 you will spend 150-200 rubles, no less. Therefore, it is cheaper to use metal tiles.

Ease of installation depending on the shape of the roof

We have already mentioned that soft roof can be used for any roof, no matter what shape it is. The thing is that the sheet has no big sizes, and its structure itself is soft. It is easy to shape, so you can easily cover towers, various curves, valleys and domes. And after completion, there will be no more than 15% waste left.

There are 2 rules for installing a soft roof:

1. Do not perform work in minus temperature, as the sheets become brittle.
2. In hot weather, walking on the surface is prohibited, as the bitumen becomes soft.

As for metal tiles, everything is different. If you need to trim simple roof having one or two slopes, then the work will go quickly and easily. There will be no difficulties, and there will be little waste. But when processing complex structures, with bends and in different forms, the work becomes more complicated, and waste will account for almost 50% of the material. Metal tiles simply cannot be used for domed and conical roofs.

As for installation, it can be done at any time, following these rules:

1. When fixing the sheets, use self-tapping screws with rubber gaskets.
2. Cut sheets only with a jigsaw, metal scissors or a circular saw. It is prohibited to cut with a grinder.

Weight and thickness

1 m2 of metal tiles weighs from 4.5 to 7 kg. It all depends on the type, thickness of the polymer layer and characteristics of the metal sheet. As for the thickness, it ranges from 0.25 to 0.55 mm.

A soft roof is twice as heavy. There are 7.5-15 kg per 1 m2. Due to this, the output sheets are thicker. The minimum layer is 3 mm, the maximum is 5 mm.

Result: metal tiles - 1, soft roofing - 0.

Operational life

Manufacturers of metal tiles can guarantee that their products will last from 5 to 20 years. In practice, with careful use and care, the coating does not lose its properties for 15 to 50 years. It all depends on the quality of the polymer with which the sheet is coated, and, accordingly, the price. And here composite metal tiles, which is considered elite, according to manufacturers, will last 30 years. In practice, the coating lasts from 50 to 70 years! Its coating is much stronger, and the outside of the sheet is covered with colored stone granules.

How long can a soft roof last? A little bit longer. Its service life ranges from 20 to 70 years. The thing is that bitumen and fiberglass do not rust and have a different structure. Manufacturers guarantee that soft roofing will last 30 years.

Result: metal tiles - 0, soft roofing - 1.

Fire resistance

Can metal burn? No. The steel sheet can withstand an open fire temperature of 130˚C. The coating does not melt or burn. Open flame, which has reached the roof, will not go further than it. Metal tiles serve as a barrier because they are fireproof.

But soft tiles are based on bitumen, which burns well. However, this layer is protected by the top stone granules, which do not burn. Of course, with an open fire the material will melt, but not burn. Therefore, not a spark from chimney, neither firecrackers thrown by hooligans are afraid of the coating. However, it can withstand temperatures of 110˚C.

Result: metal tiles - 1, soft roofing - 0.

Noise insulation

Metal tiles cannot be called silent. Everyone knows this, since the canvases are very noisy. When the roof is exposed to precipitation in the form of rain or hail, you will hear this sound in the room very well. The problem, of course, can be solved by installing a good layer of insulation that absorbs all sounds. For good sound insulation you need a layer of at least 15 cm. But, all these are additional costs.

The soft roof is silent, as it is mounted on a continuous sheathing. And the material itself absorbs all noise, because there is no metal in it. If you need to make an attic room or attic, then a soft roof is an ideal option.

Result: metal tiles - 0, soft roofing - 1.

Operation during snowfall

In winter, when snow falls, metal tiles behave dangerously. Snow accumulates on the surface. And since the material is smooth, huge piles of accumulated snow roll off the roof. The mass may damage the drain and fall on your head. Therefore, it is imperative to install a good snow catcher.

This does not happen with a soft roof. The rough surface traps snow. It accumulates, but does not come off the roof. Therefore, the installation of snow catchers is not required, which is cheaper.

Result: metal tiles - 0, soft roofing - 1.

Appearance

Here the indicators are at the same level. Metal tiles that imitate ordinary tiles look stylish, beautiful and elegant. And the presence of 30 basic colors and shades allows you to combine the coating with any design ideas.

But soft roofing has no less colors and patterns. The finished coating also looks rich, beautiful and stylish. But there is a small plus - there are no fastenings on the surface, they are hidden. Although, from a distance they are also invisible on metal tiles.

Result: metal tiles - 1, soft roofing - 1.

Cost of materials

The price of 1 m 2 of metal tiles is 180-480 rubles. What if this composite coating, then its price is from 600 to 1200 rubles/m 2.

But the price for soft roofing ranges from 200 to 570 rubles/m2. Expensive elite roofing will cost from 700 to 2000 rubles/m2. It all depends on the thickness, composition and granulate. But keep in mind that you will spend more on soft coverings due to continuous sheathing.

Result: metal tiles - 1, soft roofing - 0.

Let's sum it up

We have considered all the pros and cons of the materials. We found out their characteristics and compared them according to 9 criteria. What happened as a result? If you count the number of points, then out of 9 metal tiles receive 5 points. Out of 9, soft roofing also gets 5 points. The question is what better, soft roof or metal tiles, depends on you and your circumstances.

Today, a real dilemma for craftsmen has become the question of which roofing materials are better - metal tiles or soft roofing. At first glance, both coatings are good looking and deserve attention. Moreover, both are currently leaders in the building materials market. However, if you take a closer look, each of them has its own characteristics, which at one time or another will become decisive in the final choice. What these nuances are, and how not to get confused by them, we will understand below.

Let’s immediately make a reservation that in the article below, by soft roof we mean flexible bitumen shingles. Since soft ondulin, in principle, is a separate brand and type of product, and in this case we do not take roofing felt into account as a soft covering (it is unlikely that any master will undertake to draw a serious parallel between these types of building materials).

So, the only concepts common to both types of coatings (soft tiles and metal tiles) are:

• The purpose of the coatings is to organize the roofing of residential buildings;
• Optimal conditions of use: roof pitch angle of 12 degrees;
• A characteristic feature is its low weight, which allows it not to load the rafter system;
• Service life is within 30 years.

Important: when deciding whether metal tiles or soft roofs are better, it is necessary to take into account not only the features of the coatings themselves, but also such nuances as the roof configuration, climatic conditions in the region, wind load, features of the rafter system and the budget for roof covering.

Soft (bitumen) tiles: about the material

Flexible tiles (bitumen shingles) - a variety roofing material, vaguely reminiscent of roofing felt. The basis of this coating is fiberglass. Upper layer- bitumen impregnation with the addition of modifying impurities. In order to strengthen the top layer of the tile, it is sprinkled with fine stone chips on top of the bitumen impregnation. The result is a roofing material that is both flexible and durable.

It's worth knowing that backside soft tiles have an adhesive base, which facilitates their installation. Simply remove the protective film. Basically, bitumen shingles are produced in the form of small panels with parameters of 350x1000 mm. During operation, tile slabs can be cut. The color scheme of this coating has several standard shades (brick, red, black, gray, green).

Metal tiles: about the material

Metal tiles are solid sheets of galvanized steel coated with a polymer protective layer. Such sheet tiles are produced using exclusively cold pressing, which makes it possible to obtain panels with a characteristic “tile” embossing.

The initial quality of the roofing coating depends on such parameters as the thickness of the base metal and the thickness of the protective top layer of the panels (15-35 microns). The coloring pigment is part of the top polymer layer, which makes it possible to obtain metal tiles of any shade. In addition, one should not discount the quality of the equipment used to produce roofing. The newer and more modernized it is, the more even and without geometric errors the sheets of metal tiles come out. And this allows you to install the roof without gaps.

Important: metal tiles are sold only in m2.

Comparative characteristics of coatings

To understand what will be more advantageous for covering the roof of a house - soft roofing or metal tiles, we will analyze both types of covering in detail point by point and compare their characteristics. Let's start with the cost of the materials themselves and the price of installation. After all, it is often the cost of the work that is ultimately decisive.

Cost of material and work

First of all, let's look at financial issue. As for the cost of materials, metal tiles definitely win here, since their cost per m2 is cheaper than a soft roof by an average of $3. But here it is worth considering not only the price of the material. You need to take into account the amount of waste when laying the coating. So, if the roof has a complex configuration, then metal tiles will generate more waste. This means that you should purchase a coating with a safety factor of approximately 2. That is, 20% more than the required roof area. In this case, you always need to take into account the cost of the work. Because if a craftsman can safely lay bitumen shingles himself without the help of a neighbor, then you can’t lay metal tiles alone. The material needs to be cut and lifted. At the same time, the complex installation of a metal roof requires special tool and certain skills. In general, the job is for professionals who need to be paid. Moreover, if we compare the labor intensity of the coating laying process, then flexible tiles are easily cut and laid on any plane.

But here the other side of the coin opens up - the rafter system for the covering. So, if you can do it under metal tiles standard sheathing made of 100x50 timber in increments of 50-70 cm, then a soft roof requires an additional solid base made of moisture-resistant plywood. That is, there are additional costs in the form building material, water-repellent impregnation and cost of work.

Important: in the end, we find that it is easier to install a soft roof yourself, while a metal roof is easier for a team of workers to install. Cost of finished metal roof It will be cheaper only if it has a simple configuration (1 or 2 slopes).

Coating service life

If we compare the service life of coatings, there are no pros and cons. In particular, metal tiles made according to GOST and laid according to the rules can last up to 70 years, although the manufacturer gives an average of 15-30 years. Under the same conditions, a soft roof can last up to 50 years. At the same time, the manufacturer also gives it a service life of 30 years. Thus, there are no winners at this point. The materials are approximately equal.

Operation of coatings in snowy winters and their maintainability

Both types of coating, in principle, can withstand snow loads well and are not prone to slippage of snow layers. So, if with bitumen shingles the coating surface itself acts as a snow retainer, then in the case of metal tiles, during its installation a snow retention system is provided. At the same time, it is worth knowing that in the event of damage to a section of the coating, it is always easier to replace a small element of flexible material than to dismantle the metal tile panel. Therefore, here it’s up to you to decide what to choose - definitely - flexible tiles.

Fire safety of roofing materials

When choosing which is better to lay metal tiles or soft roofing, it is worth considering the fire resistance of the coating. Everything here is simple and clear. Organic soft roofing is on fire. And even stone chips as a top layer are not able to protect the material from melting at a temperature of 110 degrees. In the same time metal roofing not subject to combustion. An exception is made for coatings manufactured in violation of technology (with a poor-quality top polymer layer).

Sound insulation and sound absorption of roofing materials

When determining which roofing is better, here it is worth giving the palm soft covering. Thus, metal tiles beat off the “symphony of rain” in every bad weather. Moreover, such roulades will be heard not only by the owners of the house, but also by neighbors at a distance of 30-50 meters. Additional insulation 15-20 cm thick under the roof can save the situation. But this will increase the cost installation work roofs. At the same time, soft tiles perfectly absorb noise and are ideal for houses with attic spaces.

Moisture resistance of roofing materials

It is worth noting here that both types of roofing coatings are excellent at resisting moisture. But there are also nuances. Metal tiles are prone to corrosion if the top polymer coating at the time of installation. In turn, bitumen shingles can undergo deformation under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and move out of their place. Or mistakes will be made during its installation. In both cases, water will begin to leak under the roof over time.

Important: in both cases, you should simply strictly follow the rules for laying roofing materials and then there will be no problems with leakage or corrosion.

Appearance of coatings

Here, each master has his own advantages and preferences, but it is worth noting that a metal roof, although cheaper, is still no less attractive than a soft roof. Both types of roofing materials look attractive and noble. Wherein metal coating released even at 30 color options, which allows the master to bring the design idea to life. Soft tiles, although they do not have such a wealth of shades, look noble, beautiful and neat on the roof. That is, the materials here are, in principle, equal.

As can be seen from the article, the materials being compared have their own advantages or disadvantages when used in certain conditions. Therefore, choosing is not so easy. But there is a basic recommendation for each of the coatings:

• Thus, metal roofing is ideal for roofs with two or four slopes, provided they are straight. Pyramids, towers, slopes - all this can be simply and quickly covered with metal sheets with minimal waste.
• In turn, valleys, arches, turrets, domes and other delights of a roof with a complex configuration are easier and more profitable to cover with flexible tiles.

Important: if you like both roofing materials, then today architects-designers can offer options for combining coatings that are quite interesting. So the question is " soft roofing or metal tiles"will disappear by itself.

Metal tiles and soft roofing are two different options roof coverings. Each material has a number of advantages and disadvantages, and knowledge of them will make the choice easy and quick. To clearly determine the features of each coating, you need to compare them according to different criteria.

Soft roofing and metal tiles: comparison criteria and characteristics

Metal tiles are produced in the form of steel sheets with relief surface, resembling clay tiles. Each sheet is covered with a colored polymer layer that protects the metal from corrosion. Affordable cost and a number of high characteristics make this coating in demand for arranging the roofs of private houses.

Metal tiles are easy to install and provide your home with a presentable appearance.

Soft roofing is a covering consisting of flexible flat elements (shingles), which are made of bitumen applied to fiberglass and covered with several layers of bitumen-polymer mass, basalt topping and protective film. The multilayer structure gives the shingles strength and reliably protects the roof from leaks.

Flexible tiles have a multi-layer structure and are a lightweight, airtight and aesthetically attractive coating

Both of these options are deservedly popular among owners of private homes. It is worth considering that each material has certain properties and characteristics, and the choice is based on many factors, each of which has different significance for different people. Comparing metal tiles and soft roofing allows you to determine the most suitable roofing material in each specific case.

Comparison of metal tiles and soft roofing by cost

Flexible bitumen shingles are made of several layers, for the careful fastening of which there is a special technology and many production operations are carried out. Due to high labor costs, the cost of flexible tiles is higher than metal version, the production of which involves the formation of rolled steel and application to sheets protective coating, which has a complex composition.

Metal tiles differ from soft roofing in their smoothness and durability.

It is also worth considering that installation of a soft roof requires additional elements: underlay carpet, continuous sheathing, etc. This leads to an even greater increase in the overall cost of a roof with asphalt shingles. Metal sheets do not require any special changes to the standard structure roofing pie, since installation is carried out on a thin sheathing laid on top of a waterproofing film and rafters.

External characteristics

Bituminous shingles and metal coating differ significantly in appearance. The first material has a rough surface and is made in the form of flexible strips, the upper edge of which is smooth and straight, and the lower edge is a wavy line or has some other shape. By laying such elements one after another, you can create a beautiful surface reminiscent of a mosaic.

Bituminous shingles are rough and look like a mosaic

The metal version of the tile has a smooth and slightly glossy surface. The material is presented in the form of sheets, the working side of which has a relief wavy structure. The shape of the bends different brands metal tiles may differ, which also affects the appearance of roofs covered with such elements.

Metal tiles are painted in all primary colors according to the international RAL catalog, so when using it you can choose the coating to suit your needs. overall design building or entire site

The color palette of metal tiles is much more varied than that of bitumen elements. At the same time, a roof covered with flexible materials can be more beautiful than with metal sheets. This is due to the fact that soft ribbons of several colors can be alternated and combined, obtaining a bright and original result.

Technologies for installing bitumen and metal shingles

Bituminous and metal tiles differ not only in appearance and composition, but also in installation technology. This criterion must be taken into account when choosing a material for roofing. Features of the stages of laying metal tiles are expressed as follows:

• sheets of metal tiles are attached to the sheathing, laid on top of the waterproofing film and rafters, using roofing screws;
• in the area of ​​the ridge, valleys and chimney pipes, special corner additional parts are fixed;
• The joints of the sheets are sealed with a special sealant or sealant.

The length of the metal tile sheets can be adjusted to the size of the slope, so even large roofs can be covered with it quite quickly

Installation of bitumen shingles involves arranging a continuous sheathing of OSB sheets or boards located close to each other. Next, lay the lining carpet, and only then fix the flexible tapes using bitumen mastic. The gaps and seams between the tapes are carefully waterproofed, so the work requires precision and a lot of time. On final stage install drainage system, ridge, valleys, which are made of metal with a polymer coating.

Material parameters: dimensions and weight

Manufacturers produce metal tiles in the form of sheets, the length of which can be up to 4.50 m and the width up to 1.19 m. The weight of one square meter coating reaches 5 kg. Such elements are inconvenient to lift onto the roof and install alone. For small roofs, smaller sheets are used, choosing them exactly along the length of the slope.

Installation of metal tiles is almost impossible to carry out alone, since the sheets are large in size and weight

The standard length of bitumen shingle strips is 1 m, and the width is 33.7 cm. These parameters allow you to lay the roofing material yourself, but preparatory work, which consists of installing OSB sheets and underlayment, are quite complex and require assistants. Despite its relatively small size, 1 m2 of lathing material can weigh up to 12 kg.

Soundproofing properties

Metal tile sheets have a wavy shape and are made of hard material. As a result, the sounds of rain and wind are clearly audible under the roof, which is due to the low soundproofing ability of the metal. This is a negative factor if it is settled mansard roof, the premises under which are residential. You can compensate for the low sound insulation of metal tiles with a thicker layer of insulation - from 20 cm.

Laying a thicker layer of insulation improves the sound insulation of a roof covered with metal tiles

To install a roof with bitumen shingles, there is no need to install special sound-absorbing layers, since the material itself has good sound insulation. Therefore, flexible elements are used to cover both insulated and cold roofs.

The differences between a roofing pie for flexible tiles are the need for a continuous sheathing, the possibility of installing a thinner (10–15 cm) layer of insulation and the presence of a special underlay carpet

Soundproofing properties play important role when the room is under the roof, that is attic space, is residential. In other cases, the sound of rain on the roof is not heard in the rooms of the house, since the attic ceiling muffles them.

Material life

Each building and roofing material has a certain operational resource, expressed in service life, after which the material significantly loses its characteristics. This is typical for both metal sheets and bitumen roof tiles. The service life of flexible tiles ranges from 25 to 50 years, depending on the type of protective coating. Pural is the most resistant; plastisol is also quite effective.

Metal tiles coated with pural have the longest service life and look almost like real ceramic tiles

The service life of bituminous shingles without loss of characteristics is 30–50 years. After this period, the material, under the influence of climatic factors and ultraviolet radiation, loses color, resistance to temperature changes and tightness. The durability of any material is affected by the quality of its structure, so it is worth paying attention to products from well-known and proven brands.

Application area

One of the criteria for comparing metal tiles and flexible roofing is the scope of application of these materials. Considered roofing coverings have a common feature that they are used for minimum slope at 12–15 o.

Bitumen shingles are suitable for complex roofs with a slope of at least 12 degrees

Soft roofing material is suitable for roofs of complex architectural shapes, as it differs small in size and elasticity and allows you to carefully design the bends of multi-slope structures. The volume of material residues does not exceed 3–5% of total number. Metal tiles are usually mounted on simple and even pitched roofs. Fastening sheets to complex structures with many angles and bends will lead to the need frequent pruning material, will increase the amount of waste and the risk of damage to the edges and further corrosion of the metal.

In order for the roof of your new home to reliably fulfill its “responsibilities”, you should carefully select all the materials used in its construction. The same goes for the roof. Today on the market you can find a large assortment roof coverings. Therefore, many private developers are faced with choice problems. Let's take, for example, soft roofing and metal tiles. Both options are very popular. Which one should you choose? What is better: metal tiles or soft roofing? This will be discussed in the article.

General characteristics of materials

To answer the question of which roof is better, soft or metal tiles, you should first get acquainted with these materials. Both species are considered relatively new. In our country some 20-30 years ago they were not even heard of. Today, soft roofing and metal tiles compete with each other in popularity.

What are these materials? Their comparison should start with general characteristics, namely:

• soft or flexible roofing. This material is made with the addition of bitumen mass. As a rule, it is based on durable fiberglass. In addition, other layers may be present. For example, composite chips must be fixed on top. It is this that gives texture to the soft roof and protects it from external influences;
  
• What metal tiles are made of can be understood based on the name itself. This material is based on a steel sheet that has been passed through a special machine. It is this processing that gives the material its structure in the form of a profile. The metal itself is known to corrode. To avoid this, the original sheet is covered thin layer zinc In addition, the upper plane of the metal tile is covered polymer material. It also protects it from external influences, and in addition, gives it an attractive appearance.
  

Each of the listed types of roofing material has many varieties. A lot will depend on the manufacturer. For example, metal tiles are produced with different thicknesses steel sheet, read more about. Also, various polymers can be used for coating. Almost the same applies to soft roofs.

The thickness of the source material and the quality of the protective coating will largely determine the main performance characteristics. Also, these parameters directly affect the cost. Therefore, comparisons between metal tiles and soft roofing should be carried out taking these features into account.

What's good and bad about metal tiles?

To make a comparison, it is worth getting acquainted with the positive and negative sides of each material. Experts note the following advantages of metal tiles:

1. First of all, it is worth noting the long service life. Many manufacturers indicate figures in the region of 20-30 years. But if you take proper care of the roof, this coating will last 50 years without any problems.
2. Another plus is the lightness of the material. This feature significantly speeds up and simplifies installation work. In addition, you can make it less powerful, which allows you to save a little.
3. Metal tiles are not very demanding on the base. If you previously had any flat covering roofs, such as concrete or roofing felt, then you don’t even have to remove it.
4. Huge selection of designs. Metal tiles are available with different heights profile and different patterns. In addition, manufacturers offer a huge selection color solutions. All this makes it easy to choose the option that suits you, read more:.
5. Thanks to stamping, the sheets have profiles that serve as unique stiffening ribs. This allows the metal tile to withstand bending loads.
6. The material is resistant to various temperatures. He is not afraid of open fire. In addition, sudden temperature changes, for example, between day and night, are not a problem for him.

Also on the positive side is the cost of metal tiles. But here a lot will depend on the chosen option. The cost, as noted above, greatly depends on the thickness of the steel sheet and the protective coating used. The cheaper the metal tile, the worse its performance.

If we talk about shortcomings, then these are also present in the roofing material in question. Experts attribute poor sound insulation to the main disadvantages of metal tiles. When it rains, the noise from drops falling on the roof will be clearly heard inside the house. But this disadvantage is easily eliminated by installing noise and heat insulation.

A number of other shortcomings are also noted. They mainly concern the installation of the material. Firstly, there are restrictions on . It should not be less than 15 degrees. Otherwise, snow and rain will accumulate on the roof. Secondly, there are difficulties in combining sheets. It is better that the roof is simple, for example, gable. In this case, there will be much less cuttings.

Video on the topic:

Now about the soft roof

To compare something, you should learn as much as possible about both options. Only in this case can you understand what is better. If metal tiles were discussed a little higher, now it’s time for a soft roof. Here it is worth noting the following positive sides of this material:

1. The material does not corrode. In addition, soft roofing is not afraid of mold and other biological hazards. Included modern material There is nothing of this type that would be edible for mushrooms and bugs.
2. Modern manufacturers offer big choice textures and color solutions. Expensive models from the outside differ little in appearance from “noble” ceramic tiles.
3. Soft roofing is a good waterproofer. Also, this material is not afraid of temperature changes.
4. This option is perfect for installation work. It is easy to spread and cut. In addition, there are practically no scraps left. Even if you cut off a small piece of soft roofing, it can be used in another area.
5. The ease of installation allows you to cover any roof configuration with this material. The soft roof can be easily laid even on a dome. In this case, as a rule, it is glued using a special mixture. Some types of this material can be nailed down with roofing nails.
6. Such a coating can protect not only from moisture. Due to its structure, soft roofing perfectly protects interior spaces home from street noise. In addition, this material is able to retain heat. This allows you to save a little on thermal insulation materials.
7. Another plus is the ability to withstand heavy loads. The soft roof is laid on a continuous sheathing. Therefore, you need to try hard to damage it. The most important thing is not to stretch the material when laying it. The soft roof should lie freely so that tears do not form over time.

But some experts also see a disadvantage in this last advantage. Continuous sheathing, firstly, requires large financial costs. Secondly, such a design significantly makes the entire rafter system heavier. In addition, the soft roof itself weighs quite a lot.

There are other disadvantages. First of all, they concern waterproofing properties. If the slope angle is less than 18 degrees, then additional moisture protection must be installed under the soft roof. The same applies to the joints and ribs of the roof.

It is better to carry out installation without errors. The soft roof is glued to the sheathing with a special compound. If something goes wrong, it will be difficult to “tear off” the coating. You will encounter the same problems during renovation work. Often in such situations it will be difficult to manage without the help of professionals.

Problems may also arise during operation. This material has a rough surface. In this regard, debris will constantly accumulate on the soft roof, in the form of fallen leaves, twigs, and so on. Therefore, you will have to constantly clean the roof. In this case, you need to be careful and use only soft shoes.