Liquid-Applied Waterproofing Over Cement Tile Roofing

Concrete Roof Materials

• Concrete roof tiles entail exactly what their name suggests, roof tiles made from concrete. Builders use concrete to create tiles because it can, in its clay-like form, assume numerous shapes and sizes, and provide strong, hard, durable protection once dry. Concrete roof tiles generally last from 30 to 40 years, according to online roof inspection resource Roof Key. Despite its strengths, concrete tile allows for a high degree of water and moisture penetration – water leaks through and around tiles to the roof underneath.

Cement vs. Concrete

• Though commonly thought of as synonymous materials, concrete and cement differ in significant ways. Cement works as a bonding material, like glue. Builders use it to stick bricks together or adhere material to walls or floors. Concrete, on the other hand, constitutes its own building material, used to create walls, floors, roofs, ceilings, foundations. Cement, however, is one of the ingredients in concrete, meaning that any concrete material, such as a roofing tile, technically contains cement, hence the confusion.

Liquid Waterproofing

• Liquid waterproofing constitutes a type of sealant used to create waterproof layers on everything from concrete to wood, roofing systems to shower pans. This material applies in liquid form and dries to create a waterproof surface on building material. The way in which liquid-applied waterproofing works depends upon the manufacturer. Some of these materials apply like paint, in a thick layer and with a brush. Others spray on in a thin coating, with the help of a hose. Always use a liquid-applied waterproofing designed specifically for use with your building materials.

Liquid Waterproofing for Concrete Roof Tiles

• Liquid waterproofing on concrete roof tiles helps protect against moisture penetration. This increases the lifespan of your roof by preventing moisture-induced degradation. Numerous companies throughout the world -- such as Chiri Enterprise Inc., Meridian Liquid Coatings and Con-Treat -- manufacture liquid waterproofing for concrete and concrete roof systems. You should never apply concrete tiles to a surface without an underlay. The underlay provides an anchor for the tiles and helps ensure the water does not penetrate through tiles directly to the roof. Read manufacturers' descriptions and contact an expert such as a construction manager or contractor to find the best liquid-applied waterproofing for your concrete tiles.