Terracotta Clay Roof Tiles

Why choose terracotta clay roof tiles?

For centuries, fired clay has been trusted to keep buildings dry, comfortable and beautiful. Terracotta clay roof tiles combine heritage aesthetics with modern engineering, offering:

• Longevity: life expectancy of 70–100 years when installed correctly.
• Colourfast beauty: the natural pigments baked into the tile will not fade under New Zealand’s high UV levels.
• Thermal performance: the mass of genuine clay moderates internal temperatures, reducing energy demand.
• Low maintenance: glazed and matt finishes resist moss and lichen; occasional cleaning is all that’s required.
• Proven weather resistance: interlocking designs and robust fixings meet NZS 3604 wind-zone requirements, even in very high wind areas.

Profile & colour options

From traditional S-pan to sleek flat formats, profiles influence both aesthetics and performance. Popular choices include:

• Roman: a classic rounded pan with a flat leg, ideal for Mediterranean looks.
• Interlocking flat: crisp contemporary lines that suit modern architecture.
• Tapered barrel: deep curvature for Spanish Mission style and superior water shedding on low-pitch roofs.

Colour ranges span earthy ochres, deep charcoals and on-trend whites. Because the hue is fired into the clay, terracotta tiles retain vibrancy for decades.

Pitches & technical limits

Most terracotta systems can be laid down to 15° with sarking; some flat profiles are certified to 10°. Always cross-check manufacturer data against NZ Building Code clause E2/AS1 to ensure compliance.

Installation & maintenance tips

Qualified roof tilers will:

• Set out battens to the exact gauge specified for the chosen profile.
• Use stainless or hot-dip galvanised nails/screws to prevent corrosion in coastal zones.
• In very-high or extra-high wind regions, mechanically fix every tile and use storm clips on ridges.

After installation, schedule an annual visual inspection and a professional clean every 5–7 years to remove debris. Avoid abrasive blasting that could damage glazed finishes.

Comparing terracotta to other roofing materials

Still weighing up options? Explore other premium solutions within our Roof Tiles & Slates collection:

• Roof shingles and shakes – natural cedar and synthetic shake profiles for rustic charm.
• Slate roofing – ultra-durable stone tiles with refined texture.
• Concrete roof tiles – cost-effective and available in a broad colour palette.
• Metal roof tiles – lightweight, quick to install and suitable for very low pitches.

Price guide

Terracotta clay roof tiles typically range from $120 – $180 per m² supplied, excluding labour. Final costs depend on:

• Profile complexity and surface finish (glazed tiles attract a premium).
• Roof pitch and plan – more hips, valleys or penetrations increase labour time.
• Location and scaffolding requirements.

Ordering through ArchiPro

ArchiPro connects you directly with vetted New Zealand distributors and installers. Request quotes, download technical PDFs and save products to your project board for quick comparison. When you’re ready, chat to suppliers to confirm lead times and arrange site measures.

Start your project

Browse our full catalogue of terracotta clay roof tiles today and add enduring character to your next build.