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I built a house in Bangalore and installed a high sloping roof (20-26 feet) with Mangalore tiles. There are two layers - the outer double grooved tiles and the underlay tiles. These were installed in June 2013. I am trying to get some reliable information about the long term safety of these tiles especially underlay tiles. Underlay tiles are not locked into place by adjacent tiles - they just sit between two purlins - so I am wondering what the chances are of such tile developing a crack over time and falling out - and on someone's head! Properly fired clay tiles all over the world are considered safe and they last indefinitely - literally 100 years. The keyword is "properly fired". I see that my contractor bought these underlays from one "Sairam Tiles" in Kerala. Not sure how reputed they are. Also we know that the underlays are not exposed to sun or water or any impact of any kind.

Given these, would anyone have any advice on the safety aspects? Anyone on this forum who offers professional inspection services for tiled roofs?

Many thanks - Ramkumar

Dear ramkumarr,

Like you said, "properly fired" meaning, made of good clay and been through the right making process, is the important aspect here. We have been dealers of designed clay tiles, Mangalore tiles made in Mangalore, Kundapur, Tumkur and Kadur since the last 40 yrs. Off late due to the increased cost and lesser acceptance of the same products among both rural and urban home builders, we have reduced our business interest in this segment. Such tiles are called Ceiling Tiles and they are manly used for insulation and beautification. From my experience If they are of good quality and make, u need not worry. My Dad started the tiles whole sale and retail business and he considered Kerala made tiles to be the best. As they are not exposed to the elements and any major force, they would last as long as the Mangalore tiles.
This is my point of view as an erstwhile seller. I'm not aware of any professional. For more insights and info you could contact Raja Brick and Tile Co. in Tumkur and Bangalore Tile Company, Bellandur. Google them.