GLAZED PORCELAIN ROOF TILE

Abstract

Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8); wherein said ceramic body (8) is made of porcelain; and wherein the roof tile (1) further comprises a glaze coating (9), which is situated above said ceramic body (8).

Claims

1. A roof tile for forming a roof covering, the roof tile comprising: a ceramic body made of porcelain; and a glaze coating situated above the ceramic body, wherein the glaze coating comprises (i) a decor comprising a print and (ii) a transparent or translucent glaze layer arranged over the print.

2. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile shows one or more of the following characteristics: the roof tile has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5% measured according to the norm ASTM C373; the roof tile has a hail impact rating of class 3 or higher measured according to the norm FM 4473.

3. (canceled)

4. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the front face of the roof tile represents or forms an image of a plurality of roof tiles.

5. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile comprises a reinforcement layer, which is situated below said ceramic body, said reinforcement layer being formed by a mesh.

6. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of said roof tile is located between 5 mm and 20 mm.

7. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the width of the roof tile is larger than its length.

8. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile is at least 350 mm wide.

9. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile is provided with at least one attachment hole, said at least one attachment hole being present in at least said ceramic body.

10. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile comprises a layer, which is situated below the ceramic body; and wherein at least a part of said layer extends beyond the ceramic body, which part is provided with one or more attachment holes.

11. The roof tile according to claim 1, wherein the roof tile comprises a layer, which is situated below the ceramic body; and wherein said layer, at least at two opposite edges, is provided with coupling parts, which allow that two of such roof tiles can be coupled to each other.

12. The roof tile according to claim 11, wherein said coupling parts are performed according to one or more of the following possibilities, inasmuch these are not contradictory: the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is only active in the direction parallel to the plane of the roof covering and perpendicular to the coupled edges; the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is only active in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering; the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is active in the direction parallel to the plane of the roof covering and perpendicular to the coupled edges as well as in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering; the coupling parts are free from locking systems; the coupling parts provide for a click-type or snap-type coupling; the coupling parts are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles by means of a downward movement of one roof tile with respect to the other; the coupling parts are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles by means of a sliding movement one roof tile with respect to the other along the direction of the opposite edges.

13. The roof tile according to claim 11, wherein said coupling parts are substantially or completely formed from the material of said layer situated below the ceramic body.

14. The roof tile according to claim 10, wherein said layer situated below the ceramic body is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, a thermosetting polymer and/or an elastomer.

15. The roof tile according to claim 10, wherein said layer situated below the ceramic body and the ceramic body are laminated or press laminated together.

16. The roof tile according to claim 10, wherein the thickness of said layer situated below the ceramic body is located between 25% and 75% of the thickness of the roof tile.

17. The roof tile according to claim 11, wherein said layer situated below the ceramic body is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, a thermosetting polymer and/or an elastomer.

18. The roof tile according to claim 11, wherein said layer situated below the ceramic body and the ceramic body are laminated or press laminated together.

19. The roof tile according to claim 11, wherein the thickness of said layer situated below the ceramic body is located between 25% and 75% of the thickness of the roof tile.

20. A roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile comprises a first layer and a second layer, which is situated below the first layer, and which is made of a different material or a material with different material properties than the material of said first layer; and wherein the roof tile shows one or both of the following characteristics: at least a part of said second layer extends beyond the first layer, which part is provided with one or more attachment holes; and/or said second layer, at least at two opposite edges, is provided with coupling parts, which allow that two of such roof tiles can be coupled to each other.

21. The roof tile according to claim 20, wherein said first layer comprises a ceramic or porcelain layer.

22. The roof tile according to claim 20, wherein said second layer is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, a thermosetting polymer, and/or an elastomer.

23. The roof tile according to claim 20, wherein the first and second layer are laminated or press laminated to each other.

24. The roof tile of claim 1, wherein the decor is digitally printed.

25. The roof tile of claim 1, wherein the print resembles a natural product.

26. The roof tile of claim 1, wherein the decor comprises a plurality of images separated by a depression in the ceramic tile.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0125] With the objective of better showing the characteristics of the invention, hereafter, as example without any limiting character, some preferred embodiments are described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0126] FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a roof tile according to the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0127] FIG. 2 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line II-II in FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0128] FIG. 3 represents an enlarged view of the section that is indicated with F3 in FIG. 2, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0129] FIG. 4 represents an alternative to the embodiment of FIG. 3, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0130] FIG. 5 represents another alternative to the embodiment of FIG. 3, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0131] FIG. 6 represents a perspective view of the roof tile of FIG. 1, with a view on the back face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0132] FIG. 7 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering with roof tiles according to FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 8 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile according to the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0134] FIG. 9 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line IX-IX in FIG. 8, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0135] FIG. 10 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line X-X in FIG. 8, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0136] FIG. 11 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering with roof tiles according to FIG. 8, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0137] FIG. 12 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0138] FIG. 13 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line XIII-XIII in FIG. 12, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0139] FIG. 14 represents a variant of the embodiment of FIG. 13, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0140] FIG. 15 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering with roof tiles according to FIG. 12, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0141] FIG. 16 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0142] FIG. 17 represents a perspective view of another alternative roof tile of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0143] FIG. 18 represents some steps in a method for manufacturing the roof tile of FIG. 1, the method being in accordance with the present invention, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0144] FIG. 19 represents an enlarged view of the section that is indicated with F19 in FIG. 18, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0145] FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a roof tile 1 according to the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile 1.

[0146] The roof tile 1 is mainly rectangular and, in the represented example, rectangular and oblong. It has an upper surface 2 and a lower surface 3, whereby, in the installed condition of the roof tile 1, the upper surface 2 is directed upwards, whereas the lower surface 3 is directed downwards. The upper surface 2 forms the decorative surface of the roof tile 1.

[0147] Furthermore, the roof tile 1 has an upper edge 4 and a lower edge 5, whereby, in the installed condition of the roof tile 1, the upper edge 4 is directed towards the top of the roof, whereas the lower edge 5 is directed towards the bottom of the roof. Also, the roof tile 1 has two opposite side edges 6-7.

[0148] The roof tile 1 comprises a ceramic body 8, which is made of porcelain, and a glaze coating 9, which is situated above said ceramic body 8.

[0149] The glaze coating 9 comprises a decor, which here simulates wood. In particular, the decor shows wood nerves 10 and wood pores 11.

[0150] In the represented example, the front face of the roof tile 1 represents or forms an image of a plurality of roof tiles 1A-1B-1C-1D. The borders or transitions between the roof tiles 1A-1B-1C-1D are formed by depressions 12, which form part of the relief at the upper surface 2 of the roof tile 1.

[0151] Although, in the represented example, the front face of the roof tile 1 represents or forms an image of four roof tiles 1A-1B-1C-1D, it is not excluded that less than four roof tiles are represented, such as two or three roof tiles, nor is it excluded that more than four roof tiles are represented.

[0152] The thickness T of the roof tile 1 is preferably located between 5 and 20 mm, more preferably between 8 and 15 mm, and still more preferably the thickness T of the roof tile 1 is approximately 11 mm.

[0153] The width W of the roof tile 1 is larger than its length L. The width W of the roof tile 1 may be at least 350 mm and preferably at least 500 mm.

[0154] The roof tile 1 is provided with at least one attachment hole 13. Here, the roof tile 1 is provided with a plurality of attachment holes 13. The attachment holes 13 are present in at least the ceramic body 8 of the roof tile 1. They are situated closer to the upper edge 4 of the roof tile 1 than to the lower edge 5 of the roof tile 1. In particular, the attachment holes 13 are situated at a distance D from the upper edge 4, measured in the length direction of the roof tile 1, which is smaller than 0.25 times the length L of the roof tile 1. The minimal width or diameter of the attachment holes 13 is smaller than the thickness T of the roof tile 1.

[0155] In a not represented embodiment, the lower surface 3 of the roof tile 1 may be provided with a relief, such as a chamfer or taper present at one of the edges 4-7 of the roof tile 1, at the lower surface 3. Preferably, the chamfer or taper is present at least at the lower edge 5 of the roof tile 1. Such chamfer at the lower edge 5 offers the advantage of the roof tile 1, according to a view on the lower edge 5, looking relatively thin, e.g. looking like a thin slate roof element, while being provided with better weather and frost resistance than roof elements that are actually made of such materials like slate.

[0156] FIG. 2 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line II-II in FIG. 1.

[0157] In the represented example, the glaze coating 9 is situated directly above the ceramic body 8.

[0158] The ceramic body 8 forms at least 50%, more preferably at least 75% and still more preferably at least 90% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1.

[0159] The glaze coating 9 comprises a decor, said decor comprising a print 14, a glaze layer 15 of uniform color, which is situated below the print 14, and a transparent or translucent glaze layer 16, which is arranged over said print 14.

[0160] The print 14 is at least partially formed by lines 17 simulating the wood nerves 10.

[0161] The upper surface 2 of the roof tile 1 is provided with a relief, which, in the represented example, is formed by a plurality of excavations 18 present in said upper surface 2.

[0162] In the represented example, by the relief, the texture of the roof tile 1, at the upper surface 2 thereof, simulates the texture of wood. In particular, the relief simulates the texture of the wood nerves 10 and the wood pores 11. For example, the relief is at least partially formed by lines 19 simulating the wood nerves 11.

[0163] Here, the relief is also used to represent the borders or transitions between the roof tiles 1A-1B-1C-1D, which, as aforementioned, are formed by the depressions 12 in the upper surface 2 of the roof tile 1.

[0164] In the example, the relief is performed in register with the print 14. For example, the lines 19 of the relief follow the course of the lines 17 of the print 14.

[0165] FIG. 3 represents an enlarged view of the section that is indicated with F3 in FIG. 2, from which it is clear that the relief is formed in the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8, whereby the relief manifests itself through the glaze coating 9 up to the upper surface 2 of the roof tile 1.

[0166] FIG. 4 represents an alternative to the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the relief or at least part of the relief is formed in the glaze coating 9, such that it is situated substantially or completely above the ceramic body 8.

[0167] FIG. 5 represents another alternative to the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein a glaze coating is absent and wherein the print 14 and the relief are provided at the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8.

[0168] In such case, the print 14 may be provided directly on the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8 or, in an alternative, the print 14 may be provided on a primer or ground coat present at the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8. A primer or ground coat may be used for improving the adherence of the print 14 to the ceramic body 8. A primer or ground coat may also be used to create an even or substantially even surface, upon which the print 14 can be provided, which is especially useful in case the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body is irregular.

[0169] FIG. 6 represents a perspective view of the roof tile 1 of FIG. 1, with a view on the back face of the roof tile 1.

[0170] The roof tile 1 comprises a reinforcement layer 21, which is situated below the ceramic body 8.

[0171] In the represented example, the reinforcement layer 21 is situated directly below the ceramic body 8, whereby it is not excluded that an adhesive layer such as glue is present in between the reinforcement layer 21 and the ceramic body 8.

[0172] Here, the reinforcement layer 21 is formed by a mesh, preferably a fiberglass mesh.

[0173] FIG. 7 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering 22 with roof tiles 1 according to FIG. 1.

[0174] The roof tiles 1 are attached or fastened to a framework 23 by means of nails 24, which are put in the attachment holes 13.

[0175] The roof tiles 1 are installed in subsequent rows, of which only a few are represented in FIG. 7, namely the subsequent rows 25A-25B-25C. In particular, the roof tiles 1 are installed such that the roof tiles 1 of one row partially overlap the roof tiles of a previous row.

[0176] For example, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A.

[0177] The overlap 26 between the roof tiles 1 of the respective rows is less than 20%. Or, in other words, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A, whereby the overlap 26 is such that less than 20% of the upper surface 2 of the roof tiles 1 of row 25A and 25B is covered by the roof tiles 1 of row 25B and 25C respectively.

[0178] A denotes the inclination of the roof with respect to the horizontal.

[0179] It is noted that the structure of the glaze coating 9 is not represented in detail in FIG. 7.

[0180] FIG. 8 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile 1 according to the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile 1.

[0181] The roof tile 1 comprises a layer 27, which is situated below the ceramic body 8.

[0182] Said layer 27 is preferably made of a material different from ceramic or porcelain. In particular, it preferred that said layer 27 is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and/or polyethylene terephthalate, a thermosetting polymer, such as polyurethane, and/or an elastomer, such as rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0183] The layer 27 has a part 28 which extends beyond the ceramic body 8, and which is provided with attachment holes 13. In the represented example, the part 28 extends beyond the upper edge 29 of the ceramic body 8.

[0184] The attachment holes 13 are situated closer to the upper edge 4 of the roof tile 1 than to the lower edge 5 of the roof tile 1. In particular, the attachment holes 13 are situated at a distance D from the upper edge 4 of the roof tile 1, as measured in the length direction of the roof tile 1, which is smaller than 0.25 times the length L of the roof tile 1.

[0185] FIG. 9 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line IX-IX in FIG. 8.

[0186] The layer 27 is situated directly below the ceramic body 8, whereby it is not excluded that an adhesive layer such as glue is present between said layer 27 and the ceramic body 8. The layer 27 and the ceramic body 8 may be laminated or press laminated together, for example by means of glue such as epoxy glue.

[0187] The ceramic body 8 forms between 25% and 75% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1 and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1. The layer 27 forms between 25% and 75% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1 and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1.

[0188] FIG. 10 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line X-X in of FIG. 8.

[0189] The layer 27 and the ceramic body 8 are offset with respect to each other in the length direction of the roof tile 1. In particular, part 28 of the layer 27 extends beyond the upper edge 29 of the ceramic body 8, whereas part 30 of the ceramic body 8 extends beyond the slower edge 31 of said layer 27.

[0190] It is noted that the structure of the glaze coating 9 is not represented in detail in FIG. 10.

[0191] FIG. 11 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering 22 with roof tiles according to FIG. 8.

[0192] The roof tiles 1 are attached or fastened to a framework 23 by means of nails 24, which are put in the attachment holes 13, which are situated in the layer 27, in particular in part 28 of said layer 27.

[0193] The roof tiles 1 are installed in subsequent rows, of which only a few are represented in FIG. 11, namely the subsequent rows 25A-25B-25C. In particular, the roof tiles 1 are installed such that the roof tiles 1 of one row partially overlap the roof tiles of a previous row. For example, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A.

[0194] The overlap 26 between the roof tiles 1 of the respective rows is less than 20%. Or, in other words, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A, whereby the overlap 26 is such that less than 20% of the upper surface 2 of the roof tiles 1 of row 25A and 25B is covered by the roof tiles 1 of row 25B and 25C respectively.

[0195] In the represented example, the upper surface 2 of the roof tiles 1 denotes the upper surface 2 of the glaze coating 9. In other words, the upper surface 2 is formed by the decorative surface of the roof tiles 1.

[0196] A denotes the inclination of the roof with respect to the horizontal.

[0197] It is noted that the structure of the glaze coating 9 is not represented in detail in FIG. 11.

[0198] FIG. 12 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile 1 of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile 1.

[0199] The roof tile 1 comprises a layer 32, which is situated below the ceramic body 8.

[0200] Said layer 32 is preferably made of a material different from ceramic or porcelain. In particular, it preferred that said layer 32 is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and/or polyethylene terephthalate, a thermosetting polymer, such as polyurethane, and/or an elastomer, such as rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0201] The layer 32 has a part 33 which extends beyond the ceramic body 8, and which is provided with attachment holes 13. In the represented example, the part 33 extends beyond the upper edge 29 of the ceramic body 8.

[0202] The attachment holes 13 are situated closer to the upper edge 4 of the roof tile 1 than to the lower edge 5 of the roof tile 1. In particular, the attachment holes 13 are situated at a distance D from the upper edge 4 of the roof tile 1, as measured in the length direction of the roof tile 1, which is smaller than 0.25 times the length L of the roof tile 1.

[0203] The layer 32, at least at two opposite edges 34-35, is provided with coupling parts 36-37, which allow that two of such roof tiles 1 can be coupled to each other.

[0204] In the represented example, the opposite edge 34-35, at which the coupling parts 36-37 are provided, concern the upper and lower edge of the layer 32.

[0205] In a not represented embodiment of the invention, instead of the edges 34-35, the opposite side edges 38-39 may be provided with coupling parts. Or, in another not represented embodiment of the invention, both pairs of edges 34-35 and 38-39 may be provided with coupling parts.

[0206] FIG. 13 represents an enlarged cross-section according to line XIII-XIII in FIG. 12.

[0207] The layer 32 is situated directly below the ceramic body 8, whereby it is not excluded that an adhesive layer such as glue is present between said layer 32 and the ceramic body 8. The layer 32 and the ceramic body 8 may be laminated or press laminated together, for example by means of glue such as epoxy glue.

[0208] The ceramic body 8 forms between 25% and 75% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1 and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1. The layer 32 forms between 25% and 75% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1 and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness T of the roof tile 1.

[0209] The layer 32 and the ceramic body 8 are offset with respect to each other in the length direction of the roof tile 1. In particular, part 33 of the layer 32 extends beyond the upper edge 29 of the ceramic body 8, whereas part 40 of the ceramic body 8 extends beyond the lower edge 35 of said layer 32.

[0210] In the represented example, the upper edge 34, with its associated coupling part 36, is situated completely beyond the ceramic body 8, whereas the ceramic body 8 extends completely beyond the lower edge 35.

[0211] The upper surface 41 and the lower surface 42 of said layer 32 converge towards each other. In particular, they converge towards each other in the direction towards the upper edge 34 of said layer 32.

[0212] In the represented example, the coupling parts 36-37 are formed in the material of the layer 32. They are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles 1, is only active in the direction V perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering, which means that the moving apart of two of such coupled roof tiles 1 in said direction V is counteracted and preferably prevented. The locking system comprises locking surfaces 43-44, which, in the coupled condition, cooperate with each other to counteract the moving apart of the coupled roof tiles 1 in said direction V.

[0213] The coupling parts 36-37 are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles 1 by means of a substantially downward movement M1 of one roof tile 1 with respect to the other roof tile 1.

[0214] FIG. 14 represents a variant of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0215] In the represented example, the coupling parts 36-37 are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles 1, is active in the direction H parallel to the plane of the roof covering and perpendicular to the coupled edges 34-35 as well as in the direction V perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering, which means that the moving apart of two of such coupled roof tiles 1 in said directions H and V is counteracted and preferably prevented.

[0216] Here, the coupling parts 36-37 provide for a click-type or snap-type coupling. This means that a click or snap action occurs upon coupling two of such roof tiles at the respective edges 34-35.

[0217] The coupling parts 36-37 are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles 1 by means of a downward movement M2 of one roof tile 1 with respect to the other roof tile 1. In the example, they are of the so-called push-lock or push-down type, known per se from the field of flooring.

[0218] FIG. 15 represents a cross-sectional side view of part of an installed roof covering with roof tiles according to FIG. 12.

[0219] The roof tiles 1 are attached or fastened to a framework 23 by means of nails 24, which are put in the attachment holes 13, which are situated in the layer 32, in particular in part 33 of said layer 32.

[0220] The roof tiles 1 are installed in subsequent rows, of which only a few are represented in FIG. 15, namely the subsequent rows 25A-25B-25C. In particular, the roof tiles 1 are installed such that the roof tiles 1 of one row partially overlap the roof tiles of a previous row. For example, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A.

[0221] The overlap 26 between the roof tiles 1 of the respective rows is less than 20%. Or, in other words, the roof tiles 1 of row 25C and 25B respectively overlap the roof tiles 1 of previous row 25B and 25A, whereby the overlap 26 is such that less than 20% of the upper surface 2 of the roof tiles 1 of row 25A and 25B is covered by the roof tiles 1 of row 25B and 25C respectively.

[0222] In the represented example, the upper surface 2 of the roof tiles 1 denotes the upper surface 2 of the glaze coating 9. In other words, the upper surface 2 is formed by the decorative surface of the roof tiles 1.

[0223] The coupling parts 36-37 allow coupling the roof tiles 1 lying adjacent to each other in subsequent rows 25A-25B-25C of the roof covering 22.

[0224] The upper surface 41 and the lower surface 42 of said layer 32 converge towards each other. Here, they converge towards each other in the direction towards the upper edge 34 of said layer 32.

[0225] In the represented example, the upper surface 41 of the layer 32 is substantially parallel to the lower surface 45 of the ceramic body 8, whereas the lower surface 42 of said layer 32 is configured such that, in the installed condition of the roof tile 1, it is substantially parallel to the slope of the roof. Here, the lower surface 42 of said layer 32 is arranged such that, in the installed condition of the roof tiles 1 in subsequent rows 25A-25B-25C, the lower surfaces 42 of the respective layers 32 of these roof tiles 1 form a generally flat surface. In other words, the transition from the lower surface 42 of the layer 32 of the roof tile 1 in row 25A and 25B to the lower surface 42 of the layer 32 of the roof tile 1 in respectively row 25B and 25C is flush or substantially flush.

[0226] A denotes the inclination of the roof with respect to the horizontal.

[0227] It is noted that the structure of the glaze coating 9 is not represented in detail in FIG. 15.

[0228] FIG. 16 represents a perspective view of an alternative roof tile 1 of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile 1.

[0229] The roof tile 1 comprises a layer 46, which is situated below the ceramic body 8. The layer 46 is similar to the layer 32 represented in FIG. 12, however, whereby the layer 46 is offset with respect to the ceramic body 8 in the width direction of the roof tile 1 as well.

[0230] The layer 46 has a part 47, which extends beyond the side edge 48, whereas the ceramic body 8 has a part 49, which extends beyond the side edge 38 of said layer 46.

[0231] FIG. 17 represents a perspective view of another alternative roof tile 1 of the present invention, with a view on the front face of the roof tile 1.

[0232] In the represented example, instead of being mainly rectangular, the roof tile 1 has an irregular shape. In particular, the front face of the roof tile 1 represents a plurality of staggered roof tiles 1A-1B-1C-1D.

[0233] In such case, the length of the roof tile 1 is to be interpreted as the average length of the roof tile 1.

[0234] FIG. 18 represents some steps in a method for manufacturing the roof tile 1 of FIG. 1, the method being in accordance with the present invention.

[0235] In particular, the step S1 of providing a body composition 50, which here is formed by body powder, and the step S2 of pressing the body composition 50 are represented.

[0236] For forming the attachment holes 13, before the step of firing, recesses 51 are formed in the ceramic body 8 in the form of blind holes or through holes. Here, recesses 51 are formed in the form of blind holes.

[0237] In the represented example, the blind holes are formed in said step S2 of pressing. In particular, the body composition 50 is pressed between an upper press element 52 and a lower press element 53, which are provided with means for forming said blind holes. Here, said means are formed by protrusions 54 present at the upper press element 52, the length of which being smaller than the thickness of the ceramic body 8.

[0238] The step S2 of pressing is preferably performed with the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8 facing upwards or, in other words, with the upper surface 20 of the ceramic body 8 facing towards the upper press element 52.

[0239] The blind holes that are formed prior to firing the pressed body composition 55 preferably constitute at least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and still more preferably at least 90% of the length of said attachment holes 13.

[0240] The through holes can be made from the blind holes before the step of firing or after the step of firing, which through holes then correspond to said attachment holes 13. For example, the through holes may be made by means of stamping, before or after the step of firing. As alternative, the through holes may be made upon installing the roof tile, e.g. by punching/hammering a nail or turning a screw into the blind hole, which then removes the remaining part.

[0241] FIG. 19 represents an enlarged view of the section that is indicated with F19 in FIG. 18, whereby the part 56 that still needs to be removed for forming the through hole is clearly made visible.

[0242] The present invention is in no way limited to the hereinabove described embodiments, but such roof tiles and methods may be realized according to different variants without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0243] Further, as is clear from the content of the description, the present invention relates to one or more of the items as listed below, numbered from 1 till 70: [0244] 1.—Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8); characterized in that said ceramic body (8) is made of porcelain; and that the roof tile (1) further comprises a glaze coating (9), which is situated above said ceramic body (8). [0245] 2.—Roof tile according to item 1, wherein the roof tile (1) has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5% measured according to the norm ASTM C373. [0246] 3.—Roof tile according to item 1 or 2, wherein the roof tile (1) has a hail impact rating of class 3 or higher measured according to the norm FM 4473. [0247] 4.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein said glaze coating (9) comprises a decor, which preferably simulates a natural product such as stone, natural slate or wood. [0248] 5.—Roof tile according to item 4, wherein said decor comprises a print (14). [0249] 6.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the upper surface (2) of the roof tile (1) is provided with a relief, which relief preferably is formed by a plurality of excavations (18) present in said upper surface (2) of the roof tile (1). [0250] 7.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the front face of the roof tile (1) represents or forms an image of a plurality of roof tiles (1A-1B-1C-1D). [0251] 8.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein said glaze coating (9) comprises a glaze layer of uniform color (15), which, in case of said glaze coating (9) comprising a print (14), is situated below said print (14). [0252] 9.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein said glaze coating (9) comprises a transparent or translucent glaze layer (16), which, in case of said glaze coating (9) comprising a print (14), is arranged over said print (14). [0253] 10.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the color or appearance of said ceramic body (8) substantially matches the color or appearance of the front face of the roof tile (1). [0254] 11.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein said ceramic body (8) is provided with one or more color pigments. [0255] 12.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a reinforcement layer (21), which is situated below said ceramic body (8). [0256] 13.—Roof tile according to item 12, wherein said reinforcement layer (21) is formed by a mesh, preferably a fiberglass mesh. [0257] 14.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the thickness (T) of said roof tile (1) is located between 5 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 8 and 15 mm, whereby said thickness (T) is still more preferably approximately 11 mm. [0258] 15.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein said ceramic body (8) forms at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, and more preferably at least 90% of the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1). [0259] 16.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the width (W) of the roof tile (1) is larger than its length (L). [0260] 17.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the roof tile (1) is at least 350 mm wide and preferably at least 500 mm wide. [0261] 18.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the roof tile (1) is provided with at least one attachment hole (13), preferably a multiplicity of attachment holes (13). [0262] 19.—Roof tile according to item 18, wherein said attachment hole (13) is present in at least said ceramic body (8). [0263] 20.—Roof tile according to item 18 or 19, wherein said attachment hole (13) is situated closer to the upper edge (4) of the roof tile (1) than to the lower edge (5) of the roof tile (1). [0264] 21.—Roof tile according to any of the preceding items, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a layer (27 or 32), which is situated below the ceramic body (8). [0265] 22.—Roof tile according to item 21, wherein said layer (27 or 32) is made of a material different from ceramic or porcelain and is preferably made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and/or polyethylene terephthalate, a thermosetting polymer, such as polyurethane, and/or an elastomer, such as rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0266] 23.—Roof tile according to item 21 or 22, wherein said layer (27 or 32) and the ceramic body (8) are laminated or press laminated together, directly or indirectly, for example by means of glue such as epoxy glue. [0267] 24.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 23, wherein the thickness of the ceramic body (8) is located between 25% and 75% of the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1) and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1). [0268] 25.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 24, wherein the thickness of said layer (27 or 32) situated below the ceramic body (8) is located between 25% and 75% of the thickness

[0269] (T) of the roof tile (1) and preferably between 40% and 60% of the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1). [0270] 26.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 25, wherein at least a part (28 or 33) of said layer (27 or 32) extends beyond the ceramic body (8) in at least the length direction of the roof tile (1). [0271] 27.—Roof tile according to item 26, wherein said layer (27 or 32) is offset with respect to the ceramic body (8) in at least the length direction of the roof tile (1). [0272] 28.—Roof tile according to item 26 or 27, wherein at least a part (28 or 33) of said layer (27 or 32) extends beyond at least the upper edge (29) of the ceramic body (8), whereas at least a part (30 or 40) of the ceramic body (8) extends beyond at least the lower edge (31 or 35) of said layer (27 or 32). [0273] 29.—Roof tile according to any of items 21 to 28, wherein at least a part (47) of said layer (46) extends beyond the ceramic body (8) in at least the width direction of the roof tile (1). [0274] 30.—Roof tile according to item 29, wherein said layer (46) is offset with respect to the ceramic body (8) in at least the width direction of the roof tile (1). [0275] 31.—Roof tile according to item 29 or 30, wherein at least a part (47) of said layer (46) extends beyond at least a side edge (48) of the ceramic body (8), in the direction wherein multiple of such roof tiles (1) are installed in a row of the roof covering, whereas at least a part (49) of the ceramic body (8) extends beyond at least a side edge (38) of said layer (46), in the opposite direction. [0276] 32.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 31, wherein the upper surface (41) and the lower surface (42) of said layer (32) converge towards each other, preferably in the direction towards the upper edge (34) of said layer (32). [0277] 33.—Roof tile according to item 32, wherein the upper surface (41) of said layer (32) is substantially parallel to the lower surface (45) of the ceramic body, whereas the lower surface (42) of said layer (32) is configured such that, in the installed condition of the roof tile (1), it is substantially parallel to the slope of the roof. [0278] 34.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 33, wherein at least a part (28 or 33) of said layer (27 or 32) extends beyond the ceramic body (8), which part (28 or 33) is provided with one or more attachment holes (13). [0279] 35.—Roof tile according to item 34, wherein at least a part (28 or 33) of said layer (27 or 32) extends beyond the upper edge (29) of the ceramic body (8), which part (28 or 33) is provided with one or more attachment holes (13). [0280] 36.—Roof tile according to any of the items 21 to 35, wherein said layer (32), at least at two opposite edges (34-35), is provided with coupling parts (36-37), which allow that two of such roof tiles (1) can be coupled to each other. [0281] 37.—Roof tile according to item 36, wherein the opposite edges (34-35), at which the coupling parts (36-37) are provided, concern the upper and lower edges of said layer (32). [0282] 38.—Roof tile according to item 36 or 37, wherein the opposite edges, at which the coupling parts are provided, concern the opposite side edges of said layer. [0283] 39.—Roof tile according to any of the items 36 to 38, wherein one (34) of the opposite edges (34-35), with its associated coupling part (36), is situated, partially or completely, beyond the ceramic body (8), whereas the ceramic body (8) extends, partially or completely, beyond the other edge (35) of the opposite edges (34-35). [0284] 40.—Roof tile according to any of the items 36 to 39, wherein said coupling parts (36-37) are performed according to one or more of the following possibilities, inasmuch these are not contradictory: [0285] the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is only active in the direction parallel to the plane of the roof covering and perpendicular to the coupled edges, which means that the moving apart of two of such coupled roof tiles in said direction is counteracted and preferably prevented; [0286] the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is only active in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering, which means that the moving apart of two of such coupled roof tiles in said direction is counteracted and preferably prevented; [0287] the coupling parts are provided with a locking system, which, in the coupled condition of two of such roof tiles, is active in the direction parallel to the plane of the roof covering and perpendicular to the coupled edges as well as in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the roof covering, which means that the moving apart of two of such coupled roof tiles in said directions is counteracted and preferably prevented; [0288] the coupling parts are free from locking systems; [0289] the coupling parts provide for a click-type or snap-type coupling; [0290] the coupling parts are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles by means of a downward movement of one roof tile with respect to the other, such as coupling parts of the so-called push-lock or push-down type; [0291] the coupling parts are configured such that they allow to couple two of such roof tiles by means of a sliding movement one roof tile with respect to the other along the direction of the opposite edges, such as coupling parts of the dove-tail type. [0292] 41.—Roof tile according to any of the items 36 to 40, wherein said coupling parts (36-37) are substantially or completely formed from the material of said layer (32). [0293] 42.—Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8); characterized in that said ceramic body (8) is made of porcelain; and that the roof tile (1) is provided with a decor, which preferably simulates a natural product such as stone, natural slate or wood, said decor comprising a print (14). [0294] 43.—Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8); characterized in that the roof tile (1) comprises a reinforcement layer (21), which is situated below said ceramic body (8), said reinforcement layer (21) preferably being formed by a mesh, such as a fiberglass mesh. [0295] 44.—Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8); characterized in that the width (W) of the roof tile (1) is larger than its length (L). [0296] 45.—Roof tile according to item 44, wherein the roof tile (1) is at least 350 mm wide and preferably at least 500 mm wide. [0297] 46.—Roof tile according to item 44 or 45, wherein the front face of the roof tile (1) represents or forms an image of a plurality of roof tiles (1A-1B-1C-1D). [0298] 47. Roof tile for forming a roof covering, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a first layer (8) and a second layer (27 or 32), which is situated below the first layer (8), and which is made of a different material or a material with different material properties than the material of said first layer (8); and wherein the roof tile (1) shows one or both of the following characteristics: [0299] at least a part (28 or 33) of said second layer (27 or 32) extends beyond the first layer (8), which part (28 or 33) is provided with one or more attachment holes (13); and/or [0300] said second layer (32), at least at two opposite edges (34-35), is provided with coupling parts (36-37), which allow that two of such roof tiles (1) can be coupled to each other. [0301] 48.—Roof tile according to item 47, wherein said first layer (8) comprises a ceramic or porcelain layer. [0302] 49.—Roof tile according to item 47 or 48, wherein said second layer (27 or 32) is made of one or more of the materials selected from the group consisting of: a thermoplastic polymer, such as polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polypropylene and/or polyethylene terephthalate, a thermosetting polymer, such as polyurethane, and/or an elastomer, such as rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer. [0303] 50.- Roof tile according to any of the items 47 to 49, wherein the first (8) and second layer (27 or 32) are laminated or press laminated to each other, directly or indirectly, for example by means of glue such as epoxy glue. [0304] 51.—Method for manufacturing a roof tile, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8), which is made of porcelain, and is provided with at least one hole (13), which is present in at least said ceramic body (8); wherein the method at least comprises the step (S1) of providing a body composition (50), the step (S2) of pressing the body composition (50), and the step of firing the pressed body composition (55); and wherein, for forming said at least one hole (13), before said step of firing, a recess (51) is formed in the body in the form of a blind hole or a through hole. [0305] 52.—Method according to item 51, wherein, before said step of firing, said recess (51) is formed in the form of a blind hole, whereas, after said step of firing, a through hole is made from the blind hole, which through hole then corresponds to said at least one hole (13). [0306] 53.—Method according to item 52, wherein the blind hole that is formed before said step of firing constitutes at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, and more preferably at least 90% of the length of said at least one hole (13). [0307] 54.—Method according to item 52 or 53, wherein said blind hole is formed in said step (S2) of pressing. [0308] 55.—Method according to item 54, wherein, in said step (S2) of pressing, the body composition (50) is pressed between an upper (52) and a lower press element (53), which are provided with means for forming said blind hole. [0309] 56.—Method according to item 55, wherein said means are formed by at least one protrusion (54) which is present at one of the press elements (52-53), preferably the upper press element (52), the length of which being smaller than the thickness of said ceramic body (8). [0310] 57.—Method according to item 55 or 56, wherein said step (S2) of pressing is performed with the upper surface (20) of the ceramic body (8) facing towards the upper press element (52). [0311] 58.—Method according to item 51, wherein, before said step of firing, said recess (51) is formed in the form of a through hole. [0312] 59.—Method according to item 58, wherein, in a first stage, a blind hole is made, whereas, in a second stage, still prior to the step of firing, the through hole is made from the blind hole, which through hole then corresponds to said at least one hole (13). [0313] 60.—Method according to item 58, wherein said through hole is stamped into the pressed body composition (55), before said step of firing. [0314] 61.—Method according to any of the items 51 to 60, wherein the method further comprises the step of providing the roof tile (1) with a layer (21 or 27 or 32 or 46) situated below said ceramic body (8), preferably after said step of firing. [0315] 62.—Method according to item 61, wherein said layer (21 or 27 or 32 or 46) is provided by means of lamination or press lamination, preferably by means of glue such as epoxy glue. [0316] 63.—Method according to any of the items 51 to 62, wherein said hole (13) is an attachment hole, which preferably has a minimal width or diameter that is smaller than the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1). [0317] 64.—Method according to any of the items 51 to 63, wherein said hole (13) is situated closer to the upper edge (4) of the roof tile (1) than to the lower edge (5) of the roof tile (1). [0318] 65.—Method according to any of the items 51 to 64, wherein the roof tile (1) is provided with a multiplicity of such holes (13). [0319] 66.—Method for manufacturing a roof tile, wherein the roof tile (1) comprises a ceramic body (8), and is provided with at least one attachment hole (13), which is present in at least said ceramic body (8); wherein the method at least comprises the step (S1) of providing a body composition (50), the step (S2) of pressing the body composition (50), and the step of firing the pressed body composition (55); and wherein, for forming said at least one attachment hole (13), before said step of firing, a recess (51) is formed in the body in the form of a blind hole or a through hole. [0320] 67.—Method according to item 66, wherein said at least one attachment hole (13) has a minimal width or diameter that is smaller than the thickness (T) of the roof tile (1). [0321] 68.—Method according to item 66 or 67, wherein said attachment hole (13) is situated closer to the upper edge (4) of the roof tile (1) than to the lower edge (5) of the roof tile (1). [0322] 69.—Method for installing roof tiles, wherein the method at least comprises the step of installing subsequent rows of roof tiles (1) such that the roof tiles (1) of one row (25C) partially overlap the roof tiles (1) of a previous row (25B); characterized in that the overlap (26) between the roof tiles (1) of two subsequent rows (25B-25C) is less than 20%. [0323] 70.—Method according to item 69, wherein the roof tiles (1) are performed in accordance with any of the items 1 to 50 and/or manufactured in accordance with any of the items 51 to 68.

[0324] It is noted that the reference signs used in the items listed above are added for the comprehension of these items only and do not have any limitative character on the subject-matter of these items.