RUSSELL Roof Tiles has announced the launch of a ‘revolutionary’ new concrete roof tile, following a £2 million investment and five years in design and development.
Described as the ‘first of its kind in the UK’, the Bute3 is a triple interlocking multi-purpose roof tile that is said to be ‘pushing the boundaries’ of concrete roof tile manufacturing.
Russell Roof Tiles said the innovative design and colour options provides the ‘first real alternative’ to small-format concrete, natural clay, and slate roof coverings and are 33% quicker to install than other thinner leading-edge interlocking tiles. The firm added that the investment in design and development means the triple tile has the strength and characteristics of a regular large format tile.
MD Andrew Hayward has led the development of the product, working closely with design, manufacturing, and technical experts over the past five years. He said, “The market has grown consistently over the past 30 years for thinner concrete roof tiles, but quality and tile strength has always been a major challenge for manufacturers. But we have addressed this issue head-on, making this huge investment in designing Bute3, a tile that utilises all of the latest pioneering technology and precision engineering to create a multi-functional triple interlocking tile of the highest quality, which meets the demands of both planners and installers.
“We’re very excited to finally bring Bute3 to market, a high-quality product which matches the superior, design capabilities and production qualities reflected in every aspect of our current range.”
Bute3 is being launched in six colour options, two of which (Terracotta and Burnt Orange) provide an alternative to popular clay interlocking and plain tile products on the market. It also features a double-cambered design.
The triple-tile format is said to allow for ‘excellent’ coverage, with only 10.9 tiles per square metre, which reduces the number of tiles needed compared to traditional plain tiles. The product is also suitable for roofs with a pitch as low as 25°(22.5°site dependent).
Russell Roof Tiles explained that Bute3 gives the appearance of three concrete/clay plain tiles or small format slate when laid, yet the product is based on a medium interlocking tile format. It also provides a full roofing system that includes bespoke dry verge and dry fix systems, in-line vents, and specialised tile clips.
