5 of the best roofing materials to keep your home cool and leak-proof

Finding the right roof tile is a crucial step in maintaining your home's comfort and security. Choosing a good roofing material not only affects aesthetics but also plays a major role in keeping the interior cool and preventing leaks.

Here are 5 of the best roofing materials you can choose from:

1. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are a classic choice that have been used for a long time in Indonesia.

Advantages: These tiles are known for their excellent thermal insulation properties. Clay tiles can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, effectively keeping the house cool. Additionally, they are durable and relatively affordable. Leak Resistance: Clay tiles can withstand rainwater well, especially if they are installed with precision. However, this material has pores that can absorb water, making it prone to moss growth and potential leaks if not maintained. Important to Note: They require regular maintenance, such as cleaning off moss and checking the position of the tiles to ensure they stay neat and don't shift.

2. Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are an evolution of clay tiles, created through a firing process and the application of a glaze (a glass layer).

Advantages: The glaze layer gives ceramic tiles a smooth, shiny surface that can reflect sunlight effectively, reducing heat absorption. The slick surface also makes them less prone to moss and dirt and more resistant to extreme weather. Ceramic tiles have an interlock system that makes installation more precise and reduces the risk of leaks. Leak Resistance: They are highly effective at preventing leaks due to their tight surface and minimal gaps. Important to Note: They are more expensive than clay tiles and are quite heavy, requiring a strong roof structure.

3. Concrete Tiles

Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and other fillers, concrete tiles are known for their strength and durability.

Advantages: Concrete tiles are very strong, long-lasting (they can last up to 50 years), and not easily broken. They are also resistant to extreme weather changes and fire. Leak Resistance: Concrete tiles have a dense and heavy structure, making them highly effective at preventing leaks. Important to Note: Although they have good heat-reflecting properties, concrete tiles are very heavy, so they require a very sturdy roof frame. The installation process is also more difficult and the material cost is higher compared to clay tiles.

4. Metal Roof Tiles

Metal roof tiles are made from sheets of lightweight steel, aluminum, or zinc that are coated. They usually have an anti-corrosion layer like Galvalum or Zincalume and are often coated with stone granules (stone-coated) to dampen heat and sound.

Advantages: They are very lightweight, which doesn't put a burden on the building's structure and saves on roof frame costs. Metal tiles are also resistant to cracking and termites. Installation is fast because they come in sheets. Leak Resistance: Metal tiles have an interlock system and are installed with nails and adhesive, which is very effective at withstanding water and strong winds. Important to Note: Metal tiles without a sand coating can absorb and radiate heat and create loud noise during heavy rain. However, stone-coated metal tiles have a better ability to dampen heat and sound.

5. Asphalt Shingles (Bitumen Shingles)

Asphalt shingles are made from bitumen material reinforced with fiberglass fibers. They are flexible sheet-like tiles.

Advantages: Asphalt shingles are very lightweight, waterproof, and flexible, making them suitable for roofs with various pitches. Installation is easy and fast. They also have a strong grip, so they are not easily blown away by the wind. Leak Resistance: The bitumen material has excellent water resistance, so the risk of leaks is very minimal. Important to Note: Although they can dampen heat, these tiles can feel hot to the touch. The material cost is relatively high and requires an additional decking layer (such as plywood or GRC) as a base.