Traditional Clay Shingle Roof Tiles Collection
Time-Tested Beauty
Clay shingle tiles that echo the charm of historic European rooftops.
French Shingle Tile
Edilians Huguenot 20x30
Crafted with subtle textures and a weathered finish, the Huguenot tile delivers the timeless character of an aged Chateau roof—right from day one. Designed to evoke the charm of historic French rooftops, it brings instant depth and authenticity to any project.
Traditional Shingle Tile
Santa Ana - Essex
The Santa Ana Essex Shingle Tile is a premium clay roof tile handcrafted to evoke the timeless charm of old-world European roofs—from England to France and Switzerland
English Shingle Tile
Tudor
Tudor Roof Tile Company is the largest English-owned and operated handmade tile manufacturer in the UK. Rooted in a tradition that dates back to Tudor and Elizabethan times, their tiles embody the timeless principles of William Morris, founder of the Arts & Crafts movement, and the classic style of Sir Edwin Lutyens
English Shingle Tile
Dreadnought
First produced in 1805, Dreadnought’s smooth-faced shingle tiles have stood the test of time. With over two centuries of heritage, they’re still made using the same traditional methods—offering timeless simplicity, proven durability, and unmatched authenticity.
French Shingle Tile
Edilians Huguenot - Smooth
The Huguenot Smooth tile features Edilians signature smooth surface and crisp form. Offered in a wide palette of colors—from deep traditional hues to softly weathered tones—it’s a versatile choice for both restoration and new builds.
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English and French Clay Shingle Roof Tiles: History, Heritage, and Lasting Beauty
English and French shingle tiles, typically measuring 10½” x 6½”, represent one of the oldest and most refined styles in clay roofing. These small-format, flat tiles are often referred to as plain tiles or shingle tiles and have been used across Europe for centuries, particularly in areas with wetter, cooler climates. Their size and shape allowed for tightly overlapping installation, which provided excellent water resistance and durability—ideal for traditional steep-pitched roofs.
In England, this format became a hallmark of vernacular architecture. Handmade plain tiles were laid in carefully aligned courses, creating a refined texture and a clean, rhythmic look on rooftops. These tiles were often made locally from rich red or brown clays, and variations in firing temperatures produced subtle differences in tone—enhancing the natural variation and charm of the finished roof. English shingle tiles remain a staple of heritage roofing and are frequently specified for restoration work in protected or listed properties.
In France, particularly in the northern and central regions, similar flat clay tiles were used for both roofs and vertical wall cladding. Known for their elegance and craftsmanship, French shingle tiles often feature crisp edges and slightly thinner profiles. They were commonly installed on laths or battens and sometimes included decorative patterns or diapering. Many older villages in France still showcase these beautiful tiled surfaces, which contribute to the region’s architectural identity.
Today, these 10½” x 6½” clay shingle tiles are still produced using time-honored techniques. Some are handmade or hand-pressed, while others are wire-cut or machine-finished for precision and consistency. Despite modern advancements, they retain their historical charm, making them ideal for both traditional restorations and high-end custom homes where a classic aesthetic is desired.
These tiles are also versatile—they can be used on dormers, turrets, and vertical gables to create continuous, elegant surfaces that transition from roof to wall. Their scale, texture, and timeless appearance make them a favorite among architects and preservationists alike.
Northern Roof Tiles imports a carefully curated selection of English and French shingle tiles, offering both reclaimed and newly made options to suit your design vision and project needs. With their blend of history and durability, these small-format tiles deliver enduring beauty for generations.