Tagsten

Tagsten is the Danish term for a roof tile, a roofing element used on pitched roofs to shed water and protect buildings from the weather. It is commonly made of ceramic clay or concrete and can be produced in various profiles, colors, and sizes. In Denmark and much of northern Europe, tagsten is a prevalent choice for new construction and restoration, valued for durability, fire resistance, and visual versatility.

Two main material categories dominate: clay (ceramic) and concrete. Clay tiles are fired and typically heavier and long-lasting; concrete tiles are lighter and more economical, with a range of finishes. Profiles include interlocking and overlapping designs, with some resembling traditional curved tiles and others offering flatter forms.

Installation requires a substrate, battens, underlayment, and proper fixing to resist wind uplift. The tile profile determines headlap, spacing, and installation technique, usually performed by trained installers to meet local codes. Maintenance involves removing moss, inspecting for cracks or loose tiles, and replacing damaged units to prevent leaks.

Regional use: in Europe, tagsten are regulated by standards covering dimensions, performance, and installation. Aesthetics and climate influence tile choice, with Denmark having a long history of tile roofs on homes and farm buildings. End-of-life options include recycling or reuse of tiles and their components.

The term tagsten can be used broadly to describe various roof tile products in Danish, including traditional clay and modern concrete or composite tiles.