- Measurements are in cm
- As this is a handcrafted product, the measurements are to be understood as nominal
- Colors during production may vary slightly
Tiled Roofs
In the distance, the warm welcome of a roof made of terracotta curved and flat tiles, like those of the past, all identical but each one different: a structural warp which has, in its essential features and classic beauty, the characteristics that distinguish the covers of our roofs from north to south. The warm color of handmade terracotta and flexibility of forms, always make the tiled roof a constructive element infused with charm, personality and history.
The first findings of bricks used for tiled roof had a shape that combined tile and curved tile in the same element. Only later it moved in two different shapes, and this kind of solution has been passed down to the age, through the Etruscan and Roman people, who have made wide use of these.
Terracotta roof tiles have a trapezoidal shape with two raised edges: our standard measures have a length of 40, 45 and 50 cm, but we are also able to produce them in different lengths and widths to meet customer needs. Their use is particularly widespread in central Italy and in the historic centers (in obedience to municipal regulations that impose the respect of original characteristics). Very often, terracotta roof tiles, are used together with terracotta curved tile (semi-cylindrical and trapezoidal shape) of equal length, in alternate rows with the arrangement commonly called “Roman”. The terracotta curved tile (commonly also called channel) can also be used without tiles, creating a covering of the roof (curved against curved) with an ordered and regular structure, to obtain highly effective aesthetic result.
Fornace Bernasconi produces a line of hand-made bricks for terracotta roofs: terracotta tiles and coppi in different sizes, molded by hand using methods dating back to the ancient production techniques and cooked in a wood oven. A durable and quality brick, that ensures a functional protective mantle, natural and aesthetically impressive.
To contain costs, preserving charme of terracotta roofing, we propose a solution that we have named as hybrid: in this case the part below (be it tile or coppo) it is made with an industrial element of the same color and shape, and the above exposed (usually the terracotta coppo) is retained with the handmade and wooden baked one. Crafted brick will also be used to make the exposed roof (perimeter), both tile and coppo. This allows us to preserve the aesthetic appearance and at the same time to reduce significantly costs. All this is possible thanks to the customization of formats and the selection of colors, typical of crafted production.
SHAPES
| Format | U.M. | N° pieces per U.M. |
| PANTILE AND TILE 40 | m.q. | 10+10 |
| PANTILE AND TILE 45 | m.q. | 8+8 |
| PANTILE AND TILE 50 | m.q. | 6+6 |
| PANTILE AND COUNTER PANTILE 45 | m.q. | 14+14 |
| PANTILE AND COUNTER PANTILE 45 | m.q. | 11+11 |
| TILE 40 | PZ. | 1 |
| TILE 45 | PZ. | 1 |
| TILE 50 | PZ. | 1 |
Finishes
Our standard formats are customizable upon request
TERRACOTTA ROOF TILES PRICES: HOW MUCH DOES A CLAY ROOF COST?
Whether during renovation or new construction, there always comes a time when we must replace (fully or partially) or build the roof of our home.
This is a crucial step, both aesthetically and functionally, as the roof significantly affects the overall quality of the building (think insulation, for instance) and has a strong visual impact on the structure as a whole.
Among the many solutions offered by the market, handcrafted terracotta roofing stands out: roofs made with artisan clay tiles and/or curved tiles (“coppi”), produced using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
From a functional perspective, these tiles are highly reliable—just look at the roofs of old townhouses or ancient churches.
Very often, when such roofs are dismantled, both flat and curved tiles are reused or reintegrated, and reclaimed materials like these still hold significant value on the market today.
Aesthetically, no other roofing solution can enrich and enhance a home quite like the pattern formed by handmade clay tiles.
The distinctive color of terracotta roofs—especially when aged—blends beautifully with natural surroundings or stone façades.
It’s an essential element for building a countryside farmhouse or restoring an old home in the historic center of a village.
What’s the cost of a terracotta roof? How much do clay tiles and curved tiles (coppi) cost?
Making clay tiles and curved tiles (coppi) by hand requires a significant investment of time and energy, as well as knowledge of a technique that has been passed down through generations.
That’s why the prices of handmade terracotta tiles or the prices of handmade terracotta coppi are nowhere near comparable to the prices of industrial roofing solutions—just as, in our opinion, the aesthetic result and durability are equally unmatched.
The price of a terracotta roof also depends on the size (length) of the tiles and coppi, and on the roofing pattern (double coppo or coppo and flat tile combinations).
In general, we can say that the prices of handmade, wood-fired terracotta tiles and coppi range between €60 and €70 per square meter.
Fornace Bernasconi has been producing roofing bricks for terracotta roofs for decades: coppi and so-called “Roman” tiles, which have been used since ancient times to build roofs, especially in central Italy, though they are functionally suitable for any environment.
The standard lengths for flat tiles and coppi are 40, 45, or 50 cm, but Fornace Bernasconi has also specialized in producing custom sizes to integrate with existing roofs and preserve the charm of aged and weathered terracotta roofs.
To reduce costs, Fornace Bernasconi offers a solution where the visible upper part (coppo) is handmade terracotta, perfectly paired with an industrial flat tile underneath.
The integration is carefully studied in terms of both size and color, resulting in a roof that is aesthetically pleasing, while the overall cost of the terracotta roof is significantly reduced to about €45–€50 per square meter.
To complete and enhance the authenticity of the design, the perimeter tiles of the roof will also be made of handmade terracotta.
Why choose a terracotta roof
The prices of terracotta tiles and coppi are certainly significant, but the aesthetic and functional results fully justify the choice. In fact, a terracotta roof offers many advantages:
- it is extremely durable, capable of lasting much longer than other materials on the market and withstanding stress, weather events, extreme temperatures, and wear;
- terracotta is a natural and sustainable material, widely used in green building;
- its appearance suits all types of buildings, from countryside farmhouses to city apartments. The terracotta roof is highly valued for its versatility, also due to the variety of available colors, ranging from soft pinkish yellows to more niche shades;
- it requires very little maintenance compared to other materials, thanks to its composition and natural characteristics.
Terracotta tiles
A sky of wooden trusses and beams connected by the warm protection of terracotta tiles. […]
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With terracotta, anything is possible!
