Low-pitched roofs: ERLUS focuses on sustainable performance with the Level RS tile

A roofing solution adapted to contemporary architecture

Recent architectural styles favor simple volumes and strong horizontal lines. This trend is prompting architects and design offices to seek construction systems capable of ensuring the watertightness of low-pitched roofs while preserving the traditional appearance of a terracotta roof.

The Level RS tile developed by ERLUS meets this demand thanks to its angular profile and reinforced interlocking technology. The model features a triple interlocking system at the sides and head, with deep grooves designed to facilitate rainwater drainage.

"The Level RS guarantees excellent sealing even at a slope of 10°."

This configuration allows for the reduction of certain additional waterproofing systems often required on shallow slopes. In practice, this reduction in substructure can simplify certain phases of on-site implementation, particularly in multi-family housing projects or contemporary extensions.

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A design conceived for water management

Rainwater management is a major challenge on low-pitched roofs. The shallower the slope, the greater the risk of stagnation and infiltration at the roof coverings.

The Level RS, E 58 RS, and Karat RS models are based on a common, high-performance interlocking technology designed to limit water penetration under wind pressure. This technical approach meets the requirements of covers subjected to varying climatic conditions.

Compliant with European standards EN 1304 and EN 15601, the tiles are designed to withstand the common climatic stresses of residential and commercial buildings.

In certain projects, particularly in timber construction, this resistance to rain allows the use of vapor-permeable underlayment membranes. This technical choice promotes water vapor migration and contributes to better moisture management of the building envelope.

"ERLUS solutions are also suitable for timber-framed constructions."

However, a roofing contractor or a thermal design office will need to verify the compatibility of the system with local constraints: wind exposure, climatic zone or DTU roofing requirements applicable to the site.

A Cool Roof version to limit summer overheating

ERLUS also offers the Level RS in a Cool Roof version. This technology aims to improve the reflection of solar radiation in order to limit the heating of roof surfaces.

In the context of global warming and increasing episodes of summer overheating, these solutions are of particular interest to designers seeking passive levers for improving thermal comfort.

The Cool Roof approach can help reduce roof surface temperatures and limit certain cooling needs in commercial buildings or highly exposed housing.

However, this strategy remains dependent on several parameters: building orientation, roof insulation, inertia of the construction system or attic ventilation.

A manufacturing process geared towards climate resistance

ERLUS tiles are made from natural clays fired at over 1000°C and up to 1200°C for the Level RS. This high-temperature firing results in low porosity and high density.

This feature improves the resistance of the facing tiles:

• to frost,
• to UV rays,
• to the elements
• to the shocks caused by hail.

The manufacturer states that the product is resistant to hailstones larger than 40 mm in diameter. This criterion is becoming particularly important in certain regions facing an intensification of extreme weather events.

The dimensional stability of terracotta tiles is also an advantage in renovation, particularly on structures where the durability of the building envelope remains a priority.

"ERLUS tiles offer a long-lasting solution for new construction or demanding renovations."

Useful performance for the building envelope

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, terracotta roofs contribute to the overall hygrothermal behavior of the building. Their ability to absorb and then quickly release moisture helps maintain a more stable indoor climate.

In a detached house or a commercial building, this property can complement ventilation systems and roof thermal insulation solutions.

ERLUS's low-slope models thus aim for several technical objectives:

• to ensure the roof is watertight,
• preserve the durability of the structure,
• limit maintenance needs,
• to keep up with new architectural trends.

The use of terracotta tiles on roofs with a shallow pitch also makes it possible to maintain the appearance of a traditional roof while meeting the aesthetic requirements of contemporary projects.

With the Level RS, E 58 RS, and Karat RS models, ERLUS is developing a product range geared towards low-slope buildings, which are increasingly common in the residential and commercial sectors. Combining waterproofing performance, weather resistance, and thermal comfort, these solutions illustrate the evolution of roofing systems in response to new architectural and environmental requirements.