Concrete Roof Tiling Nottingham — Supply, Install & Re-Roof
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We are Nottingham House Extensions — a local roofing contractor and building company serving homeowners across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire for over 20 years. We supply and install concrete roof tiles on properties throughout the NG postcode area. Whether you need a complete re-roof, a partial tile repair, new ridge and hip work, or a breathable underlay replacement, our experienced team manages the entire job — from your free drone roof survey through to the final sign-off.
Concrete roof tiling remains the most widely used pitched roofing system across the UK, accounting for nearly half of all roof installations. Right here in Nottingham, thousands of homes in areas like Bulwell, Clifton, Arnold, Carlton, and The Meadows were built during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s with concrete tiles that are now approaching or reaching the end of their working life. We know these roofs well. We work on them every week. Every job starts with a FREE Drone Roof Survey — so you can see the full condition of your roof before committing to anything. No guesswork. No pressure. A clear, written quote on every job. 📞 Call us now on 0115-647-0560 for your free survey. |
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How Long Do Concrete Roof Tiles Last in Nottingham?
Concrete roof tiles typically last between 40 and 60 years, depending on the quality of the original installation, how well they have been maintained, and how much exposure they have had to the elements. In Nottingham, the freeze-thaw cycle during winter months places extra stress on older tiles, causing surface pitting, erosion, and eventually water absorption that even sound-looking tiles can hide.
Many Nottingham homes built in the 1960s and 1970s are now within or beyond that lifespan. Properties across Arnold, Carlton, Clifton, and Bulwell that were tiled during the post-war housing boom are showing the tell-tale signs: spalling surfaces, crumbling ridge mortar, moss-covered north-facing slopes, and damp patches in the loft.
The good news? You don't need to climb a ladder to spot the warning signs. Here is what to look for from the ground and inside your loft:
Outside your home:
Inside your loft:
Many Nottingham homes built in the 1960s and 1970s are now within or beyond that lifespan. Properties across Arnold, Carlton, Clifton, and Bulwell that were tiled during the post-war housing boom are showing the tell-tale signs: spalling surfaces, crumbling ridge mortar, moss-covered north-facing slopes, and damp patches in the loft.
The good news? You don't need to climb a ladder to spot the warning signs. Here is what to look for from the ground and inside your loft:
Outside your home:
- Tiles that have slipped out of line, cracked across the face, or gone missing altogether
- Gritty sandy deposits collecting in your gutters — this is the protective surface of concrete tiles breaking down
- Dark green or black patches of moss and algae, particularly on north-facing slopes
- Cracked, loose, or missing mortar along the ridge or hip lines
Inside your loft:
- Damp patches or tide marks on the rafters or timbers
- Daylight visible through the felt or between tiles
- Felt that has sagged, torn, or collapsed in sections
- A musty smell suggesting trapped moisture
Why Choose Concrete Roof Tiles for Your Nottingham Home?
Concrete tiles are the sensible, practical choice for the majority of Nottingham properties — and there are good reasons they dominate the UK market.
Concrete vs Clay — Which Should You Choose?
Many Nottingham homeowners ask us this question. Here is a straight answer:
Concrete tiles are the right choice for most post-war properties, extensions, and budget-conscious re-roofs. They perform well, look good, and are cost-effective upfront. The main drawback is that surface colour can fade over time — worth noting if you are matching a partial repair.
Clay tiles suit older property types where authenticity matters. Victorian and Edwardian terraces in Mapperley, Carrington, and the older streets of Nottingham were often originally tiled in clay, and matching that original look requires clay. Clay tiles also hold their colour far longer and can last 50 to 100 years when properly maintained.
If your property falls within one of Nottingham's conservation areas — such as The Park Estate or the Lace Market — changing the tile type or colour may require approval from Nottingham City Council. We advise on planning and permitted development as part of every survey, so you always know where you stand before work starts.
- Cost-effective — concrete tiles cost significantly less than clay or natural slate while still delivering decades of reliable performance
- Durable — manufactured to BS EN 490 standards, modern concrete tiles are built to withstand the freeze-thaw conditions typical of a Nottinghamshire winter
- Versatile — available in a wide range of profiles, colours, and finishes to suit post-war semis, modern estates, and house extensions alike
- Low minimum pitch — concrete interlocking tiles can be installed on roof pitches as low as 17.5°, making them ideal for rear extensions and shallow-pitch roofs
- Widely available — standard profiles like Marley Modern, Redland 49, and Sandtoft Double Roman are readily available, making future partial repairs and tile matching far easier
Concrete vs Clay — Which Should You Choose?
Many Nottingham homeowners ask us this question. Here is a straight answer:
Concrete tiles are the right choice for most post-war properties, extensions, and budget-conscious re-roofs. They perform well, look good, and are cost-effective upfront. The main drawback is that surface colour can fade over time — worth noting if you are matching a partial repair.
Clay tiles suit older property types where authenticity matters. Victorian and Edwardian terraces in Mapperley, Carrington, and the older streets of Nottingham were often originally tiled in clay, and matching that original look requires clay. Clay tiles also hold their colour far longer and can last 50 to 100 years when properly maintained.
If your property falls within one of Nottingham's conservation areas — such as The Park Estate or the Lace Market — changing the tile type or colour may require approval from Nottingham City Council. We advise on planning and permitted development as part of every survey, so you always know where you stand before work starts.
What Does a Full Concrete Re-Tile Involve in Nottingham?
A properly executed re-tile is an 8-stage process. You should know exactly what is included before agreeing to any work. Here is how we do it.
Step 1 — Free Drone Roof Survey and Written Quote We use drone imagery to inspect every part of your roof — tiles, ridge, valleys, flashings, and felt. You see the exact condition before committing. We provide a fully itemised written quote covering materials, labour, scaffolding, and waste removal.
Step 2 — Scaffolding HSE regulations require a proper working platform for all but the most minor roof repairs. Scaffolding is included in your written quote — no surprises on the day.
Step 3 — Strip Old tiles, battens, and felt underlay are carefully removed and taken off site. Waste disposal is included as standard.
Step 4 — Structural Check We inspect rafters and roof timbers for rot or damage. Any structural issues are discussed and agreed with you before we proceed — nothing extra is added without your say-so.
Step 5 — New Breathable Underlay and Treated Battens A breathable membrane underlay is installed — now required under current Building Regulations. This replaces the old non-breathable bitumen felt commonly found on West Bridgford semis and 1970s Wollaton properties. New treated timber battens are then fixed at the correct gauge for the tile being specified.
Step 6 — Tile Installation to BS 5534 Tiles are mechanically fixed using manufacturer-specified clips and fixings to BS 5534 specification. Every tile at the roof perimeter receives the correct number of fixings. We never use generic clips as substitutes for the correct specified hardware.
Step 7 — Ridge, Hips, Valleys, and Lead Flashings All roof junctions are finished and made weathertight. Ridge and hip tiles are fixed with mechanical fixings alongside any mortar bed — BS 5534:2014 compliance is standard on every job, not an optional extra. Lead flashings are dressed around chimneys and wall abutments.
Step 8 — Sign-Off, Completion Certificate, and Guarantee The site is cleared. You receive a completion certificate and a written guarantee before final payment. We always weatherproof any open sections overnight — your home is never left exposed at the end of a working day.
Step 1 — Free Drone Roof Survey and Written Quote We use drone imagery to inspect every part of your roof — tiles, ridge, valleys, flashings, and felt. You see the exact condition before committing. We provide a fully itemised written quote covering materials, labour, scaffolding, and waste removal.
Step 2 — Scaffolding HSE regulations require a proper working platform for all but the most minor roof repairs. Scaffolding is included in your written quote — no surprises on the day.
Step 3 — Strip Old tiles, battens, and felt underlay are carefully removed and taken off site. Waste disposal is included as standard.
Step 4 — Structural Check We inspect rafters and roof timbers for rot or damage. Any structural issues are discussed and agreed with you before we proceed — nothing extra is added without your say-so.
Step 5 — New Breathable Underlay and Treated Battens A breathable membrane underlay is installed — now required under current Building Regulations. This replaces the old non-breathable bitumen felt commonly found on West Bridgford semis and 1970s Wollaton properties. New treated timber battens are then fixed at the correct gauge for the tile being specified.
Step 6 — Tile Installation to BS 5534 Tiles are mechanically fixed using manufacturer-specified clips and fixings to BS 5534 specification. Every tile at the roof perimeter receives the correct number of fixings. We never use generic clips as substitutes for the correct specified hardware.
Step 7 — Ridge, Hips, Valleys, and Lead Flashings All roof junctions are finished and made weathertight. Ridge and hip tiles are fixed with mechanical fixings alongside any mortar bed — BS 5534:2014 compliance is standard on every job, not an optional extra. Lead flashings are dressed around chimneys and wall abutments.
Step 8 — Sign-Off, Completion Certificate, and Guarantee The site is cleared. You receive a completion certificate and a written guarantee before final payment. We always weatherproof any open sections overnight — your home is never left exposed at the end of a working day.
Ridge Tiles, Dry Fix Systems, and BS 5534 — What You Need to Know
This is the section most Nottingham roofers skip — and it matters.
Before 2014, bedding ridge and hip tiles in mortar alone was accepted practice. Since the revision of BS 5534 in 2014, mortar alone is no longer sufficient. All ridge and hip tiles must now include mechanical fixings — regardless of whether mortar is also used.
Many roofs across The Meadows, Basford, and Bulwell were re-ridged before this change. If your ridge tiles are sitting on mortar only and that mortar is now cracking or falling away, you have two options:
Repointing vs Re-Bedding — What's the Difference? Repointing renews the outer mortar joint only. It's right when the ridge tile is stable and the underlying bedding is sound. If the tile is loose, repointing the surface does nothing to fix the structural problem beneath it. Re-bedding — lifting the tile, replacing the full mortar bed, and adding mechanical fixings — is the correct and lasting repair.
We explain this clearly on every ridge job. You get a written recommendation before work starts.
Before 2014, bedding ridge and hip tiles in mortar alone was accepted practice. Since the revision of BS 5534 in 2014, mortar alone is no longer sufficient. All ridge and hip tiles must now include mechanical fixings — regardless of whether mortar is also used.
Many roofs across The Meadows, Basford, and Bulwell were re-ridged before this change. If your ridge tiles are sitting on mortar only and that mortar is now cracking or falling away, you have two options:
- Re-bed and mechanically fix — fresh mortar bed plus proprietary fixings, fully compliant with BS 5534
- Upgrade to a dry ridge system — fully mechanical, maintenance-free, and compliant with BS 8612. No mortar to degrade, no re-pointing in 10 years. This is our recommendation on most jobs.
Repointing vs Re-Bedding — What's the Difference? Repointing renews the outer mortar joint only. It's right when the ridge tile is stable and the underlying bedding is sound. If the tile is loose, repointing the surface does nothing to fix the structural problem beneath it. Re-bedding — lifting the tile, replacing the full mortar bed, and adding mechanical fixings — is the correct and lasting repair.
We explain this clearly on every ridge job. You get a written recommendation before work starts.
Moss, Algae, and Roof Coatings — The Honest Guide for Nottingham Homeowners
Not every mossy or faded roof needs replacing. Some homeowners in Nottingham are sold a full re-tile when a proper clean and breathable coating would have done the job. Others are sold a coating when the tiles are already too far gone to benefit from treatment. We will tell you honestly which situation you are in.
Moss and algae are particularly common on north-facing slopes and in areas like Mapperley and Sherwood where tree cover keeps roofs damp for longer. Moss retains moisture against the tile surface and speeds up surface erosion. It can also grow into ridge mortar joints, pushing them open over time.
The right treatment starts with soft-wash biocide — not jet washing. Jet washing ageing concrete tiles strips away the protective surface layer. On a tile that is already pitting or shedding grit, jet washing accelerates failure rather than fixing it.
On breathable coatings: Any coating applied to concrete tiles must have an SD rating below 1 — meaning water vapour can still pass out through the tile from inside your home. A non-breathable sealant traps moisture inside the roof structure, causing damp, mould, and timber damage over time. If a contractor cannot tell you the SD rating of the product they want to apply to your roof, that is a warning sign.
A breathable coating adds protection to sound tiles. It cannot reverse surface breakdown that has already occurred. If your tiles are pitting and absorbing water, replacement is the right answer.
Moss and algae are particularly common on north-facing slopes and in areas like Mapperley and Sherwood where tree cover keeps roofs damp for longer. Moss retains moisture against the tile surface and speeds up surface erosion. It can also grow into ridge mortar joints, pushing them open over time.
The right treatment starts with soft-wash biocide — not jet washing. Jet washing ageing concrete tiles strips away the protective surface layer. On a tile that is already pitting or shedding grit, jet washing accelerates failure rather than fixing it.
On breathable coatings: Any coating applied to concrete tiles must have an SD rating below 1 — meaning water vapour can still pass out through the tile from inside your home. A non-breathable sealant traps moisture inside the roof structure, causing damp, mould, and timber damage over time. If a contractor cannot tell you the SD rating of the product they want to apply to your roof, that is a warning sign.
A breathable coating adds protection to sound tiles. It cannot reverse surface breakdown that has already occurred. If your tiles are pitting and absorbing water, replacement is the right answer.
Older Roofs, Asbestos Risk, and Matching Discontinued Tiles
If your Nottingham property was built before 1985, there are three things worth knowing before any roofing work begins.
1. Potential asbestos cement tiles Some fibre cement roof tiles manufactured before 1985 contain chrysotile (white asbestos) fibres. These were used across post-war housing estates — including parts of Clifton, Bestwood, and Bilborough. Standard concrete tiles do not contain asbestos, but fibre cement products from this era sometimes did, and the two can look very similar from the ground. We assess the need for testing before any work starts on pre-1985 roofs. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without the correct controls is a legal and health risk.
2. Structural load considerations Concrete interlocking tiles are heavier than many older roofing materials. If your property has lightweight roof timbers — common on some 1950s and 1960s builds — a structural check is worthwhile before specifying new concrete tiles. This is especially relevant if you are also planning a loft conversion, which changes the roof structure significantly.
3. Matching discontinued tile profiles Partial repairs can be difficult when the original tile profile has been discontinued. Standard profiles like Marley Modern, Redland 49, and Sandtoft Double Roman are still available new. Discontinued profiles can often be sourced reclaimed. We identify the tile profile during the survey and confirm matching options before anything is ordered. We do not mix profiles without flagging it to you first.
We also fit concrete roof tiles on new house extensions and single-storey additions. If you are building a rear or side-return extension and need the new roof to match the existing house tiles, we can handle both elements in one coordinated job — no need to manage two separate contractors.
1. Potential asbestos cement tiles Some fibre cement roof tiles manufactured before 1985 contain chrysotile (white asbestos) fibres. These were used across post-war housing estates — including parts of Clifton, Bestwood, and Bilborough. Standard concrete tiles do not contain asbestos, but fibre cement products from this era sometimes did, and the two can look very similar from the ground. We assess the need for testing before any work starts on pre-1985 roofs. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without the correct controls is a legal and health risk.
2. Structural load considerations Concrete interlocking tiles are heavier than many older roofing materials. If your property has lightweight roof timbers — common on some 1950s and 1960s builds — a structural check is worthwhile before specifying new concrete tiles. This is especially relevant if you are also planning a loft conversion, which changes the roof structure significantly.
3. Matching discontinued tile profiles Partial repairs can be difficult when the original tile profile has been discontinued. Standard profiles like Marley Modern, Redland 49, and Sandtoft Double Roman are still available new. Discontinued profiles can often be sourced reclaimed. We identify the tile profile during the survey and confirm matching options before anything is ordered. We do not mix profiles without flagging it to you first.
We also fit concrete roof tiles on new house extensions and single-storey additions. If you are building a rear or side-return extension and need the new roof to match the existing house tiles, we can handle both elements in one coordinated job — no need to manage two separate contractors.
Areas We Cover — Concrete Roof Tiling Across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
We work across the full NG postcode area and into Derbyshire every day. Our roofing teams cover:
Nottingham City Centre (NG1) · West Bridgford (NG2) · Mapperley (NG3) · Carlton (NG4) · Arnold (NG5) · Bulwell (NG6) · Sherwood (NG7) · Basford (NG7) · Beeston (NG9) · Stapleford (NG9) · Long Eaton (NG10) · Clifton (NG11) · Wilford (NG11) · Hucknall (NG15) · Eastwood (NG16) · Ilkeston (DE7) · Derby (DE1) · Mansfield (NG18) · Southwell (NG25)
Not sure if we cover your area? Call 0115-647-0560 and we will confirm straight away.
Nottingham City Centre (NG1) · West Bridgford (NG2) · Mapperley (NG3) · Carlton (NG4) · Arnold (NG5) · Bulwell (NG6) · Sherwood (NG7) · Basford (NG7) · Beeston (NG9) · Stapleford (NG9) · Long Eaton (NG10) · Clifton (NG11) · Wilford (NG11) · Hucknall (NG15) · Eastwood (NG16) · Ilkeston (DE7) · Derby (DE1) · Mansfield (NG18) · Southwell (NG25)
Not sure if we cover your area? Call 0115-647-0560 and we will confirm straight away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Roof Tiling in Nottingham
How long do concrete roof tiles last in the UK?
Concrete roof tiles typically last between 40 and 60 years, though this depends on installation quality, maintenance, and climate exposure. In Nottingham, freeze-thaw winter conditions can shorten the lifespan of older tiles that have already begun to pit or absorb water. Tiles on properties built in the 1960s and 1970s are now approaching or past this threshold and are worth having inspected.
How do I know if my concrete roof tiles need replacing?
Look for slipped or cracked tiles, gritty deposits in your gutters, widespread moss growth, and crumbling ridge mortar. Inside the loft, check for damp patches on rafters, sagging felt, or visible daylight through the roof. If your roof is over 40 years old and showing more than one of these signs, a professional survey is recommended. Our free drone roof survey covers all of these checks.
Can you replace just a few concrete roof tiles, or does the whole roof need replacing?
In many cases, a partial tile repair is entirely sufficient — provided the felt underlay is sound, the battens are in good condition, and ridge failure is not widespread. We will always tell you honestly whether a repair or a full re-tile is the right answer. We do not recommend full replacements when targeted repairs will do the job.
What is the difference between dry ridge and wet ridge (mortar bedding)?
Wet ridge uses sand and cement mortar to bed and point ridge tiles in place. It has been the traditional method for decades but degrades over time and requires re-pointing. Dry ridge uses mechanical clips and fixings to secure ridge tiles without mortar. It is maintenance-free, wind-resistant, and fully compliant with BS 5534:2014 — the current British Standard for slating and tiling. Since 2015, mortar alone is no longer considered sufficient. We install dry ridge systems on all new re-roofs and recommend upgrading older mortar-only ridges during repair work.
Do I need planning permission to replace my concrete roof tiles in Nottingham?
Like-for-like replacement — same profile, same colour — is usually permitted development and does not require planning permission. You may need to apply if your property is in a conservation area (such as The Park Estate or the Lace Market), if the property is listed, or if Nottingham City Council has removed permitted development rights under an Article 4 Direction. We advise on this as part of every survey.
Should the felt underlay be replaced when re-tiling?
Yes — if the existing felt is the old non-breathable bitumen type, which is common on Nottingham homes built before 1980. Replacing it with a breathable membrane during the re-tile is best practice and meets current Building Regulations. It also significantly reduces the risk of condensation and damp forming inside the loft space. If the re-tile is a localised partial repair, we assess the condition of the felt in the area being worked and advise you accordingly.
Can you match my existing concrete tile profile for a repair?
In most cases, yes. Popular profiles including Marley Modern, Redland 49, and Sandtoft Double Roman are still manufactured new. Discontinued profiles can often be sourced through reclaimed tile suppliers. We identify your tile profile during the survey and confirm matching options before any tiles are ordered. If we cannot find a match, we tell you — we do not mix non-matching profiles without discussing it with you first.
How much does concrete roof tiling cost in Nottingham?
Costs vary depending on the size of your roof, its pitch and complexity, scaffolding requirements, and the extent of structural work needed. We do not publish set prices because every roof is different and any figure without a survey is a guess. What we do offer is a fully itemised written quote on every job — materials, labour, scaffolding, and waste disposal, all clearly broken down with no hidden costs. Call 0115-647-0560 to book your free drone roof survey.
Ready to Book Your Free Concrete Roof Survey in Nottingham?
If your roof is over 40 years old, showing signs of wear, or you simply want to know its true condition — now is the time to act. A small problem caught early is an affordable repair. Left until water is coming through the ceiling, the same issue becomes a structural job.
We have been working on Nottingham roofs for over 20 years. We turn up when we say we will. We give you an honest assessment, a clear written quote, and a completed job you can rely on for decades.
Here is what you get when you call us:
Don't wait until a small problem becomes an expensive one.
📞 Call Nottingham House Extensions now on 0115-647-0560 🌐 Or visit: www.nottinghamhouseextensions.co.uk
We have been working on Nottingham roofs for over 20 years. We turn up when we say we will. We give you an honest assessment, a clear written quote, and a completed job you can rely on for decades.
Here is what you get when you call us:
- ✅ A FREE Drone Roof Survey — see every tile, ridge, valley, and flashing before committing to anything
- ✅ A fully written, itemised quote — materials, labour, scaffolding, and waste disposal clearly broken down
- ✅ Expert advice on whether your roof needs a repair or a full re-tile — we will never recommend more than is needed
- ✅ BS 5534-compliant installation with breathable underlay, treated battens, and dry ridge systems as standard
- ✅ 20+ years of experience on Nottingham properties — from post-war semis to new extensions
Don't wait until a small problem becomes an expensive one.
📞 Call Nottingham House Extensions now on 0115-647-0560 🌐 Or visit: www.nottinghamhouseextensions.co.uk
Nottingham House Extensions
Professional Building Services
FREE Design Consultation and FREE Quotation
Call Now on
0115-647-0560
Professional Building Services
FREE Design Consultation and FREE Quotation
Call Now on
0115-647-0560