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Mediterranean roof tile is possibly the most venerable of all roofing materials, dating back to the Egyptians of four thousand years ago. Mediterranean roof tiles such as were popular in ancient Rome are still around in the form of spanish clay roof tiles, which are common not only in Spain and Latin America but in southern California as well. Today, kiln-fired Mediterranean roof tile is still the most durable and attractive of all roofing materials. What Is It, Exactly? Mediterranean roof tiles – which include spanish roof tiles as well as terra cotta roofing tiles – are shaped like quarter-round tubes which ridges for directing water into rain gutters and specially-designed ridges that allow these tiles to lock into place when installed. Although all Mediterranean roof tiles have this general configuration, they can vary from region to region; for example, terra cotta roofing tiles found in Turkey or Greece will look quite different than Spanish roof tiles. As the Roman Empire broke up during the 4th and 5th Centuries of the Common Era, its former provinces developed their own unique cultures and styles of architecture. This Roman influence can still be seen in much of Latin America as well as the countries of the Mediterranean; it was also a major influence (via the Spaniards) on Mission-style architecture. Spanish Style Spanish roof tiles in the U.S. and Mexico date back some 500 years. Although commonly used in southern California, they may be found in other former Spanish colonial possessions, including New Orleans and south Florida. These unique roof tiles have more of a curved shape. They are often half-round and are sometimes completely tubular in shape. They are commonly used on top of Mission-style homes. Terra cotta roofing tiles are usually flatter, with a lower profile; originating in Portugal, they are used on all types of upscale luxury homes. Tiles For All Homes Mediterranean roof tile is literally built for the ages; a roof made from kiln-fired clay or ceramic is expected to last at least one hundred years. In many cases, such roofing can last much longer. Although these roofing materials are designed for a particular regional look, Mediterranean roof tile is appropriate for almost any upscale luxury home that is located in a relatively dry, warm climate.
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