The Timeless Appeal of Handmade Peg Tiles

The Timeless Appeal of Handmade Peg Tiles

Dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, the name ‘peg tile’ originates from the softwood pegs driven through two holes at the top edge of the tiles, allowing them to hang on laths or battens.

Early peg and plain tiles were handcrafted by local or travelling artisans using simple firing and moulding techniques, resulting in a wide variation in size, texture, camber, and color. Despite the Royal Charter of 1477, which aimed to standardize their size, these variations persisted.

Over time, traditional peg tiles gave way to handmade ‘plain tiles,’ where wooden pegs were replaced with clay nibs, simplifying the installation process and reducing costs. By the 1900s, mass-produced machine-made clay and concrete tiles further replaced the traditional methods.

However, recent planning regulations and a focus on conserving historic buildings with locally sourced, sustainable materials have sparked renewed interest in traditional roofing solutions. Tudor Roof Tile is one of the few remaining English manufacturers preserving these traditional tile-making skills while incorporating modern firing techniques for exceptional durability and performance.

Today, bespoke handmade peg tiles are highly sought after for their aesthetic appeal and performance, offering a ‘wow’ factor for new properties. Available in various sizes, camber styles, colors, and ornamental matching tiles, they add value, character, and individuality to modern designs.

For architects and conservationists focused on preserving architectural heritage, the Handmade Peg Tile remains a popular choice.

Tudor roof tiles are available from leading roofing and builders merchants.

For more information, contact Tudor’s office at 01797 320202, or speak directly to one of Tudor’s Area Managers here.

Tudor Roof Tiles: Top-quality English handmade plain and peg tiles at competitive prices, made without compromise for those who never settle.

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Tudor Roof Tiles

Tudor Roof Tiles

Tudor Roof Tile Co Ltd is one of the last remaining independent clay roof tile manufacturers, which still produces genuine handmade Kent Peg and Plain tiles of the kind that have graced English roofs over the centuries.

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