Rating of the best manufacturers of soft tiles for 2022

The roof of a country house or cottage is the main element that protects the structure from the negative influence of natural conditions - solar radiation, wind, rain or snow. A reliable roof over your head is created by the topmost layer of the coating, for the installation of which a waterproof material made of soft tiles is used, which easily tolerates temperature changes, and is also resistant to other negative factors.

There is a wide range of such goods on the construction market, which does not at all simplify the choice - which company is better to buy, how much it costs. This review presents the best domestic and foreign manufacturers that are engaged in the production of products in this area.

General information

Soft tiles - material for roofing in the form of flat plates (shingles) with a characteristic pattern along the lower edge, based on oxidized or modified bitumen, fiberglass and stone powder (granulate).

Often also called bituminous or shingles, roofing tiles, soft roofing, shingles.

It is perfectly placed on the roofs of a complex configuration:

• conventional single or double slope;

• multi-slope with different levels;

• domed;

• hip;

• broken lines;

• combined.

Installation is possible for the roof with a slope of at least 11⁰!

Plastic properties allow it to be used for finishing facades.

What does it consist of

The multi-component structure consists of several layers.

1. Easy-to-remove siliconized film to prevent sticking of sheets during storage and transportation. Removed immediately before installation.
2. Self-adhesive from the inside layer treated with bituminous glue for easier work.
3. Non-woven fiberglass (molten glass with the addition of reinforcing resins) as the basis of the roof.
4. Layers of bitumen applied to the fiberglass on both sides, providing elasticity and durability, as well as creating a reliable framework for other layers. Several varieties are used, including those with SBS polymers or atactic polypropylene (APP), as well as oxidized ones.
5. Mineral or stone dressing with additives for decoration and protection against damage. It is made from natural materials with an appropriate palette: anthracite, basalt or slate. This granulate looks good and does not lose brightness with prolonged exposure to the Sun.

Varieties

1. According to the pattern and shape of the shingles:

• hexagon;

 

• rhombus;

• shingles;

• slate;

• three-layer cutting;

• irregular;

• dragon tooth;

• wave;

• beaver tail.

2. By component modifications:

• ordinary - for the formation of rows;

• ridge - to give the roof a finished look and arrange the joints of the slopes and the ridge;

• eaves - for placement in areas that receive the largest load from ice or melt water;

• cornice-ridge - a universal shingle that combines the characteristics of different types.

3. By design features:

• single layer;

• multilayer:
  • two-layer;
  • three-layer.

4. By type of sprinkling:

anthracite;

basalt;

slate.

Production technology

Main steps:

1. Application of molten bitumen to fiberglass in a saturator.
2. Drying of the treated web, coating with a second layer of bitumen.
3. Application of granulate of the same color on a hot layer.
4. Covering with a protective film of the rear side to prevent sticking.
5. Cooling in the cooling chamber.
6. Coating on the inside with bituminous glue.
7. Cutting fabric to shape and size.
8. Warehouse packaging.

Advantages

The use of the latest technologies in soft roofing has many advantages:

• high strength due to the strong structure of the fiberglass base impregnated with bitumen;
• long service life, more than half a century, with the function of operation in any climatic conditions;
• flexibility and elasticity to implement any design proposals for different roof structures;
• low weight - up to about 10 kilograms per square meter, which does not require additional strengthening of the rafters;
• excellent sound insulation achieved by hermetically sealed shingles;
• good resistance to ultraviolet radiation with preservation of the brightness of the color due to the special properties of the sprinkling;
• excellent water tightness, obtained as a result of the formation of a single sealed surface without cracks or cracks during the gluing of shingles;
• preventing the appearance of mold, moss or bacteria in high humidity due to the water-repellent properties of the surface;
• fast laying with an adhesive layer;
• excellent maintainability with quick replacement of individual shingles in case of damage;
• cost-effectiveness with virtually waste-free production;
• certified fire resistance according to the GZ class, at which the bitumen impregnation does not ignite, the fire is not supported, and the flame does not spread;
• increased wind resistance due to double fixation - self-tapping screws and glue;
• a variety of colors using dyes to achieve natural rich shades;
• surface roughness to contain snow accumulation and melt slowly safely without risk to bystanders or parked vehicles;
• convenient delivery to the place of work in packages, easy access to the roof;
• versatility with a harmonious combination of various facade designs for plaster, brick, siding or wood.

However, there are some disadvantages:

• it is not necessary to lay on flat roofs due to the impossibility of ensuring the descent of melt or rainwater;
• strict adherence to the stages of hermetic placement on the crate;
• work only under normal weather conditions, avoiding heat to prevent softening or cold to prevent hardening;
• the need for regular cleaning of fallen leaves or other debris.

Criterias of choice

It is advisable to pay attention to the main parameters and design features.

1. The planned pattern, appearance and color should stylishly complement the overall design of the architect with the exterior finish of the building.
2. Type of granulate - for example, basalt chips look aesthetically pleasing and retain a rich color for a long time.
3. Brand fame. The manufacturer is interested in selling products all the time, the quality of which is controlled to maintain a reputation. In addition, a guarantee is provided, and it also undertakes to accept a return if a marriage is detected.
4. Production time - the layer of glue on the wrong side can partially dry out during long storage, then it will need to be softened with a building hair dryer. It is better to buy product packaging, from the date of manufacture of which no more than six months have passed.
5. Terms of delivery - you should find out the availability in the warehouse or the possibility of quick delivery under the order, if necessary, buy in addition in case of a calculation error or a defect.
6. It is better to buy packages of the same release date so that there are no differences in shades. All packages must be opened and mixed prior to installation to minimize the occurrence of color variations. Then the roof will look the same color or with imperceptible transitions.
7. The condition of the outer layer - a slight loss of granulate during transportation is possible.A completely smooth surface indicates a marriage or a poor-quality batch.
8. The shingle should bend freely and also easily return to its original state. This is important when installing on a complex roof structure with overhangs, corners or slope changes. For an ordinary flat surface, such a refinement is not necessary.
9. Thickness test – single layer or multilayer.
10. The feeling of a bituminous smell is a sign of bitumen evaporation, which threatens to lose elasticity when exposed to direct sunlight.

Where could I buy

Different types of goods can be purchased in building supermarkets or in markets where a large range of goods is presented. In addition, budget novelties are easy to order online using the Yandex.Market aggregator, which demonstrates products with descriptions, photos and a direct link to the manufacturer's online store. Tips and recommendations will not be superfluous, what to look for, what are the best models and how to choose the right shingle.

Top Producers

The rating of quality manufacturers of soft roof models is based on product characteristics, performance, colors and service life. In addition, the popularity of models, according to buyers, was taken into account in the Yandex.Market aggregator. The reviews and comments of customers in the online store were also not left aside, so as not to make mistakes when choosing. When compiling the rating, the best manufacturers were distributed according to the materials produced by the types of dressing - anthracite, basalt, and shale.

TOP-4 best manufacturers of soft tiles with anthracite coating

Kerabit

Products of the Scandinavian concern Nordic Waterproofing OY with roots dating back to the Finnish company Lemminkäinen with a century-long history in the production of building materials.The model range offers tiles that can harmoniously fit into any landscape, look individual and stylish for a long time:

• Premium - laminated rectangular shingle made of modified SBS-bitumen with an individual pattern and color, creating a three-dimensional relief at a price of 974 rubles / sq. m;
• wave S + - the visual effect of the sea wave;
• quadro L + - a zigzag pattern consists of rectangles, resembles a chessboard, visually increasing the volume of the roof;
• triple K+ - hexagonal honeycomb, perfect for structures decorated in any style with a large number of color options.

• long service life;
• stylish design;
• good elasticity;
• easy installation with self-adhesive elements;
• no products from oxidized bitumen;
• excellent frost resistance.

• high price.

Kerabit installation video tutorial:

Icopal

The products of the founder of the production of shingles, Jens Willansen, who patented the manufacturing technology in 1894, are popular in the domestic market, despite the high cost of 807 rubles per sq. m. m. It is great for repairing an old roof or new construction. The popular Plano models, made in Finland, as well as Siplast, made in France, are offered. Product quality and recipes are carefully controlled on fully automated production lines.

• long service life up to 50 years;
• resistance to mechanical damage;
• frost resistance;
• masking irregularities;
• noise reduction;
• use for complex roof structures;
• light weight up to 10 kg/sq. m;
• profitability;
• wind resistance;
• fast styling.

• high price.

Video tutorial on the calculation of the material from Icopal:

Onduline

Onduline is a subsidiary of the French corporation Onduline SA. Today it is the only company in Russia that produces a real roofing sheet Ondulin. This material has a number of advantages over corrugated board and metal tiles.

• Ondulin is easy to install: even a non-professional can handle it. Installing Ondulin is no more difficult than assembling furniture from IKEA. Savings on roofers - tens of thousands of rubles;
• easy and inexpensive transportation: Ondulin sheets can be brought in your own passenger car;
• "cold" and quiet material: it practically does not heat up due to low thermal conductivity and does not make noise during hail or rain;
• easy operation: no need to tint, there are no cracks, mold;
• will never rust: there is no metal in the composition;
• super-strong material: 1 m² of Ondulin can easily withstand a load of up to 1 ton. The roof will not bend or lose its shape;
• guarantee against leaks - up to 20 years.

• not detected.

Dock Pie

German brand products manufactured at Russian enterprises. Several popular series are offered - Standard, Europa and Premium, each of which has many collections that differ not only in shape, but also in color. It is produced on two bases - fiberglass or polyester. Suitable for use in different climatic zones. Roof tiles fit well on structures with any configuration. The double adhesive system shows excellent load resistance. Offered at a price of 240 rubles/sq. m.

• long service life;
• original forms;
• a large selection of models and shades;
• strong connection of shingles using the "glue lock" method - bituminous welding;
• moisture resistance;
• resistance to the appearance of fungus, moss, decay;
• simple installation and processing;
• warranty period up to half a century.

• sticks together if stored incorrectly.

Video overview of Docke product features:

TOP-4 best manufacturers of soft tiles with basalt sprinkling

IKO

The largest transnational concern from Canada, producing soft tiles for almost 70 years. At enterprises in Europe and America, a closed cycle is provided, from the extraction and manufacture of basalt granules with glass fiber to the production of oxidized bitumen. Such a scheme ensures uninterrupted supplies of raw materials to all plants of the concern.

Three series are produced:

• Classic - four model lines: Superglass 3 Tab, Monarch, Victorian, Diamant;
• Premium - five model ranges: Cambridge Xtreme, Cambridge Xpress, Crown Slate, Armourshake, Royal Estate;
• Shield - four model lines: Diamant Shield, Storm Shield, Biber Shield, Skyline.

• high quality raw materials;
• large thickness;
• wide model range;
• good resistance to external negative weather factors%
• long service life;
• simple waste-free installation;
• excellent heat and sound insulation characteristics;
• maintainability.

• high price;
• work exactly according to the instructions.

RUFLEX

Domestic trademark of high-quality roofing, which is part of the trade and production association DIANA Association. Products are manufactured at enterprises in the US, EU and Russia. The Lux and Premium series are offered, which include six collections with different shapes.Accuracy of geometric dimensions and special locks on the shingles do not allow mistakes during installation. Of the eight colors, you can always choose the desired shade, for which there will be a set of all components. Five fractions of basalt evenly cover the surface of the shingle. As a basis, super-strong fiberglass of increased tensile strength is used. A wide range of costs allows you to choose the optimal price-quality ratio. Sold at a price of 390 rubles/sq. m.

• long service life;
• 35 year warranty;
• excellent characteristics of strength, frost resistance, heat resistance, flexibility and elasticity;
• possibility of operation in any climatic conditions;
• a wide range of models and colors;
• ease of installation;
• waste-free installation;
• light weight;
• environmental friendliness;
• aesthetics.

• the need for regular cleaning of the roof from debris;
• multi-stage;

Video instruction for laying RuFlex:

Roof Shield

The Ryazan Cardboard and Roofing Material Plant (KRP) became the first enterprise in Russia to master the production of soft tiles in 1996. Products are not inferior in quality to leading foreign products and are shipped to customers around the world - to China, Germany, France, Poland, India. Flexible shingles are available in different shades and cuts to create a unique look for your home. As a base, fiberglass impregnated with bitumen is used. Various polymer additives provide resistance to deformation, flexibility and strength. External decorative topping protects the surface from the negative effects, and also gives different shades.

Basalt dressing is used in the Premium and Classic collections, and basalt in combination with anthracite in the Family Light and Family Eco Light model lines.Prices for products start from 330 rubles / sq. m.

• long service life over 50 years;
• good sound insulation;
• ability to hold snow;
• resistance to corrosion;
• use on complex roof structures;
• easy transportation;
• resistance to damage;
• simple styling;
• stylish design;
• waste-free installation;
• affordable price.

• not detected.

Video review of the Premium series:

TechnoNIKOL Shinglas

The products of the domestic manufacturer meet international standards. An exclusive roof with a spectacular view, excellent parameters, as well as the ability to cover roofs with complex geometries. Cost: from 212 rubles/sq. m. TechnoNIKOL plants are equipped with imported equipment that allows the use of the latest technologies for the manufacture of soft tiles. Environmentally friendly raw materials, combined with careful quality control, make the products competitive with recognized world leaders in this field. As a base, fiberglass impregnated with bitumen is used. Inexpensive materials are designed for operation in unpredictable Russian weather, they are not afraid of either heat, or cold, or strong wind.

• a wide range of models in different price segments;
• a wide range of cut shapes and shades;
• small price;
• durability;
• moisture resistance;
• soundproofing;
• profitability;
• high mechanical strength;
• excellent price-quality ratio;
• fire safety;
• light weight.

• not detected.

Shinglas installation video tutorial:

TOP 3 best manufacturers of soft tiles with slate coating

Katepal

The leader among European manufacturers of soft tiles from Finland. For more than seventy years of history, a small family company has become a leading company that meets the needs of the Russian and European markets. The production uses the best environmentally friendly raw materials, the latest technologies, compliance with European standards and continuous quality control.
10 collections are offered according to the cut shapes: Mansion, Mansion New, Forte, Ambient, Rocky, Katrilli, Jazzy, Foxy, Classic-KL, 3T. The average price is 565 rubles/sq. m.

• durability;
• a wide range of products with a rich palette;
• persistent natural shades;
• practicality;
• fire resistance;
• flexibility;
• profitability;
• light weight;
• ease of installation;
• compliance with the European standard;
• warranty period up to 30 years.

• hard to find for sale.

Video review:

CertainTeed

The company's products are among the first varieties of flexible coatings produced in the United States since the beginning of the last century. Multi-layer shingles consist of felt or fiberglass impregnated with a modified bituminous mixture, sprinkled with mineral granules. In Russia, lines are offered in various price segments: Presidential Shake, Grand Manor, Carriage House, Highland Slate, Landmark, Belmont and CT 20.

• long service life and manufacturer's warranty up to half a century;
• more than 20 types of models with a wide choice of up to 150 color options;
• geometry accuracy;
• a set of accessories to achieve tightness;
• antibacterial and antifungal properties;
• fast installation and easy repair.

• high price.

Installation instructions:

Tegola Canadese

One of the world's leading manufacturers of soft tiles from Italy, which launched production at a Russian enterprise. The basis is APP-bitumen with a long service life and a color scheme that imitates natural roofing of various types. The collection consists of six series: Comfort, Comfort Plus, Business, Business Plus, Premium and Exclusive, which include 47 models and more than 100 color options.

• increased service life;
• durable protective layer of three granulate fractions;
• improved polymer-bitumen layer with high resistance to solar radiation;
• extra strong fiberglass;
• natural shades;
• a wide range of;
• high quality;
• excellent performance characteristics of moisture resistance, sound insulation, heat and frost resistance;
• stylish design.

• high price;
• strict adherence to instructions.

Tegola installation instructions:

Mounting Features

Useful properties are preserved under a number of conditions:

• the best installation period is at the very beginning of summer or early autumn in calm weather at an air temperature of 15 to 20 degrees;
• soft tiles can be stored in packages in a dark, warm room;
• the protective film from the adhesive layer is removed only before work to prevent the adhesive base from drying out and losing its original properties;
• do not walk on a newly laid roof, so as not to damage or push through the material.

It is necessary to foresee the stages of work with the possibility of descending from the roof with the help of stairs!

How to mount yourself

Preparatory work

1. At home, a standard set of materials and tools is selected.

2. Using plywood, OSB boards or wide boards, the base is strengthened.

3.The rafters are treated with antiseptic and refractory agents.

4. The ventilation system is being set up.

With a slope of more than 25 degrees, the ventilation outlet area is 8 square meters. cm, with a smaller slope - 16 sq. cm.

5. A bituminous layer is laid along the perimeter of the roof.

With a slope of less than 18 degrees, the gasket can only be placed in some areas:

• in the area of ​​​​the pipe;
• at the junction with the wall;
• on a skate;
• on the overhangs of the cornices.

6. Eaves and gable strips are installed.

7. The exit of the chimney is marked.

8. The lining carpet of the valley is laid in the color of the roof.

Step-by-step instructions on how to lay your own hands

1. Cornice shingles are laid on planks fixed on overhangs and nailed with galvanized nails. To save money, instead of a cornice, you can take an ordinary tile and cut off the petals. Then the laying is done end-to-end two centimeters from the overhang.
2. Ordinary shingles are laid in both directions from the middle of the roof overhang and nailed with four nails. With a large slope, the number of nails driven can be increased to six.
3. The first row should retreat from the cornice overhang by one to one and a half cm, and the petals should cover the joints of the cornice sheets.
4. The second row is placed in the same way, overlapping the cutouts of the previous row with petals.
5. The edges are cut and glued, leaving a layer of up to 10 cm.
6. The final rows are laid in exactly the same way - the shingles are cut to form a strip of 15 centimeters and coated with glue for seven to eight centimeters.
7. Before working on a skate, scaffolding is first prepared.
8. The sheets are laid with an overlap of five centimeters and nailed with four nails.The ridge shingle is obtained by cutting the cornice shingle along the perforation, then it is bent and laid in a short part along the ridge.
9. Passages through the roof are made using rubber seals or special technologies: a triangular rail is installed at the junction of the roof and the pipe;
   - a gasket with overlaps smeared with glue is laid;
   - the surface of the pipe is insulated with the calculation of closing 35 cm of the pipe and 25 cm of the slope;
   - a bar is installed around the perimeter;
   - an iron apron is fixed:
   - Seams are sealed with silicone sealant.
10. In the same way, an adjunction to a vertical wall is performed. Only the rail is fixed along the wall, and not around the perimeter.

A properly installed roof will serve for many years, protecting the building from cold and moisture. In the absence of sufficient experience on how to lay soft tiles, it is better to entrust the arrangement of such an important element for a house, garage or gazebo to trained professionals. At the same time, knowledge of the instructions will allow you to control the entire process.

Installation video tutorial:

Care order

Long service life will provide simple recommendations:

• twice a year, clean the roof of leaves, branches or other debris. Carefully collect large residues by hand, and sweep away small debris with a soft brush without damaging the outer layer;
• control the functionality and, if necessary, clean the gutter system (funnel, gutters) mounted on the roof;
• when large masses of snow accumulate, clean the surface, leaving a small snow cover, using tools that will not damage the outer layer;
• regularly inspect the roof for defects, damage, leaks, followed by repair of the damaged area.If the replacement of damaged shingles is delayed, the defective area will increase due to the constant exposure to adverse weather conditions.

Enjoy the shopping! Take care of yourself and your loved ones!