Sandtoft expands its industry-leading clay range with the launch of two new plain tiles

13.10.2011

Sandtoft has expanded its industry-leading range of clay tiles with the launch of two new handcrafted plain tiles; the Barrow and the Alban.

The new clay tiles are made at Broomfleet where Sandtoft has extensive clay reserves formed from the alluvial plain of the riverHumberover 10,000 years ago. This abundant natural resource is situated directly alongside the manufacturing site, and has been harnessed for generations to create beautiful and highly durable clay tiles.

Each of the two new designs owes its varied and rustic texture to the recycled foundry sands that are carefully pressed into the tile's surface during tile making.   Once dried, the tiles are set into the kiln by hand, using special U cassettes which fire the tiles vertically. This further adds to their character as it results in each tile adopting a slightly different shape during firing. This process is managed in such a way that it allows random irregularities in shape to occur without compromising on the tile's weatherproofing performance.   

Although the new tiles have been developed together, each creates its own look on the roof and offers the specifier, homeowner or builder a range of benefits: 

The Barrow is aimed at those wanting traditional handmade looks at a more affordable price. The manufacturing process ensures that a generous application of sand is embedded into every tile to create a rich sanded look characteristic of a true handmade tile. There are four colours to choose from which have been designed to emulate Sandtoft's award winning Goxhill handmade plain tile. There are two brown shades; Dark Oak and Bay Brown as well as two red colours - the Light and Dark Rusper. These can be used individually on the roof or mixed to create an attractive blend of colours called 'Barrow Brindle Mix' - which is well suited to heritage building projects. The red colours are also ideal for vertical tile hanging.

The Alban range differs from the Barrow in that it combines the look of a reclaimed tile with great value for money. There are two colour options available 'Sussex Blend' which features a mix of red, brown and black tones, and the 'Vintage Blend' offering contrasting shades of red and black.

Andrew Lawton, Sandtoft's sales director said: "Following the success of our more contemporary New Generation clay range we are turning our attention to the traditional sectors of the market, while still applying one of our key strategic aims of making a clay roof covering more affordable. For these new products, we have developed specialist sanding techniques that add real charm and character to a clay plain tile roof while at the same time extending our commitment to using recycled materials.

"The Barrow and Alban draw upon over 100 years of roofing expertise to meet the increasing demand for affordable clay roof tiles. With a total of six new colours available, Sandtoft now have one of the most extensive and interesting clay plain tile ranges on the market".