Sustainable building materials: Ferrocement-clay roof tiles

Abstract

This paper is on the exploration and development of ferrocement-clay roof tiles as an alternative roof cover that is less costly, easily available and from an environmentally friendly recyclable material, in this case, the ordinary clay. It is an alternative to the regularly used factory manufactured roofing materials of burnt clay, concrete and metals. The ferrocement-clay roof tile developed was tested with regard to its flexural and compression strengths and the results are presented and discussed. Other tests with regard to its, durability, heat gain and sound absorption are ongoing. The materials used for the sample are cement, clay, interwoven wire mesh and water. Of course, clay is readily and abundantly available in the rural areas. The ultimate aim is to "empower" the rural community in producing environmentally-friendly and affordable roof cover employing appropriate technology that they should be able to grasp easily.