How to Install RoofingFoil™ Under a Tile Roof
Tile roofing that uses battens, counter-battens, or has a naturally occurring air space because of the shape of the tile makes adding a radiant barrier very simple. The goal is to get the foil down before the battens, then continue the normal installation process.
Curved tile (Spanish / clay tile)
With curved tiles like Spanish clay tile, the shape of the tile itself creates the required air gap — no batten system needed. The foil goes directly to the deck below the tiles.
Install the secondary waterproofing membrane
Lay down your secondary waterproofing layer on the deck first, per standard tile roofing practice.
Roll out RoofingFoil™ + Underlayment over the membrane
Starting at the eave, roll the foil horizontally across the deck over the secondary membrane, working up toward the ridge.
Fasten to the deck
Attach with plastic cap roofing nails — the preferred fastener. Staples work as a backup but are not ideal for long-term performance.
Overlap each row 4–6"
Overlap each row by at least 4" (up to 6") as you work up the roof to keep the barrier continuous and water-resistant.
Install the curved tiles
Proceed with your standard curved tile install. The curved shape of the tile naturally creates the ½"+ air gap between the tile and the foil below — no battens required.
RoofingFoil™ installed under Spanish clay tiles — the curved profile creates the air gap automatically.
Flat tile with batten system
For flat tiles that sit close to the deck, a batten or counter-batten system is used to elevate the tile and create the required air gap. The foil goes down before the battens.
Install the secondary waterproofing membrane
Lay your secondary waterproofing layer on the deck first, per standard tile roofing practice.
Roll out RoofingFoil™ + Underlayment over the membrane
Starting at the eave, roll the foil horizontally across the deck over the secondary membrane, working up toward the ridge.
Fasten to the deck
Attach with plastic cap roofing nails. Staples work as a backup but cap nails are preferred for long-term hold. Since you're using battens, you will use less nails on this install than the scenario above with curved tiles.
Overlap each row 4–6"
Overlap each row by at least 4" (up to 6") as you work from the eave to the ridge.
Install the batten system on top of the foil
Attach your battens or furring strips directly over the foil. The battens elevate the tiles and create the required ½"+ air space between the tile and the foil below.
Install the tiles over the battens
Proceed with your standard tile install. The foil is now correctly positioned to reflect up to 97% of radiant heat before it can pass into the structure below.
RoofingFoil™ installed under a slate tile roof with batten system creating the air gap.
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