After about three years of life on our vetiver thatch roof we recently replaced the thatch with micro-concrete roofing tiles (MCR). MCR tiles and metal roofing are fast and easy to install, and both work well for roofwater harvesting. I like MCR tiles because they’re more durable and look better than most metal roofing, and don’t get as noisy in rainstorms. We cut the tiles with a right angle grinder and then covered the joints with cement. This roof should last 25 years or more. Also note, the vents on top will provide even better ventilation. (They’re screened to keep birds out.)
Roofs
Further Information about Instant Shelters
Owen suggested that I elaborate on my suggestion for the use of magnesium cement in conjunction with basalt woven mats to create nearly instantaneous shelter. This idea stems from the work done by Michael Collins using magnesium cement (sometimes called “Ceramicrete”) in combination with other fibers, such as burlap or canvas. You can read a … Read more
Bermuda Roofs
“The archetypical Bermuda house is a low, squared building with a stepped, white roof and pastel-painted walls, both of which are made out of stone. The roofs are designed to catch water, of which there is no fresh supply in Bermuda apart from rain. The walls are designed to restrict damage from hurricanes and are required by law to be able to withstand windspeeds of over 100 mph (160 km/h).”
New thatch on old Bensemann home
Just got this email from Cliff, a long time reader in NZ. This is a nice looking home!
“In my surfing looking for New Zealand thatch houses (which are rare) I came across this and thought you might find it interesting.
Brick Barrel Vaults
Consider making a brick barrel vault in your dream home. It definitely has a wow factor. The links below show more ideas.
Low Cost Roof Tile Manufacture (MCR)
Practical Action.org: Micro-concrete Roofing Tile Production
“Much attention has been paid to developing the small-scale production of concrete roofing tiles as an affordable alternative to both traditional roofing materials, such as thatch, and modern, mass-produced, often inappropriate, galvanized iron sheeting or asbestos cement. These tiles are relatively low in cost, durable (with a life span expected to exceed 20 years in most areas), aesthetically acceptable, able to offer adequate security and comfort, and provide protection from both the heavy rain and the hot sun.