Storage Considerations for Stone Coated Metal Roof Tiles

Stone coated metal roof tiles offer advantages such as strong weather resistance, beautiful appearance, and long service life. They are now the preferred roofing material for many mid- to high-end buildings. As a manufacturer of stone coated metal roof tiles, we've long observed that many customers focus solely on the product itself, overlooking a crucial aspect: "storage". In fact, many tiles suffer irreversible damage due to improper storage before they're even installed or used. Today, we'll address a case we've discovered and discuss how to properly store stone-coated metal roof tiles and why storage is so crucial.

1. Maintain ventilation and dryness to prevent moisture damage

If stone-coated metal tiles are stored in an environment with a humidity exceeding 75% for a long time, the underlying steel plate may undergo micro-oxidation, thereby reducing surface adhesion. It is recommended to store the tiles in a ventilated and dry warehouse and use sleepers to ensure air circulation at the bottom.

If they are stacked directly on the ground, especially on concrete or earth surfaces, moisture can easily rise and penetrate, causing the tiles to turn white or even rust.

2. Keep away from dust and sand to preserve the original appearance.

Although the natural colored sand on the tile surface has strong adhesion after high-temperature curing, prolonged coverage with dust or fine sand can lead to uneven color or a rough surface after installation.

Particularly in windy and dusty regions (such as the Middle East and parts of Africa), if the warehouse is not dust-proof, the dust layer on the tile surface may reach a thickness of 0.5 mm after three months of storage. Friction during transportation can cause surface wear.

It is recommended to lay dustproof sheets or keep the storage area sealed to prevent airborne dust accumulation.

3. Protect from rain and water accumulation to prevent chemical reactions.

Although stone-coated metal tiles have excellent water-resistance, prolonged accumulation of water or moisture in the packaging can cause alkalinization, causing the colored sand to fade and creating white spots.

If exposed to rain or water, unpack the tiles immediately and allow them to air dry to prevent moisture entrapment.

Proper storage not only impacts product appearance but also brand reputation, construction quality, and economic benefits. The following explains its importance from multiple perspectives and provides real-world examples.

1. Protecting Product Appearance and Brand Image

First impressions often determine customer trust. An African distributor reported that a shipment of stone-patterned metal tiles arriving in Hong Kong had been stored on damp ground, causing moisture to erode the underlying packaging. Upon unpacking, some tiles showed a slight whitening. While functionality was not affected, the customer mistakenly believed this was a quality issue, leading to product returns and negatively impacting the relationship.

2. Reducing After-Sales Risk and Transportation Losses

According to AttiRoof's export statistics, approximately 12% of after-sales issues are not due to manufacturing defects, but rather to moisture intrusion caused by improper storage or transportation. If the packaging is soaked by rainwater and not properly ventilated, and the tiles are stacked for more than 10 days, the colored sand layers between the tiles may adhere due to localized moisture condensation, resulting in localized color differences during installation. Standardized storage can significantly reduce these non-quality complaints.

3. Ensure Smooth Construction and Stable Progress

If tiles get damp during transportation or storage, some steel plates may slightly warp. While not noticeable, these issues can result in uneven seams and uneven tile surfaces during installation, affecting the overall flatness of the roof.

For example, in a large villa project in South America, improper warehouse storage caused approximately 300 tiles to slightly warp, requiring reorganization and delaying the project by five days. The project subsequently established a separate storage area, added a layer of skids and moisture-proof sheeting, and the problem was completely resolved.

4. Improve Customer Satisfaction and Repeat Purchase Rates

High-quality products combined with a comprehensive delivery experience can foster a stable customer base. AttiRoof statistics show that dealers with high-standard storage practices experience an average 26% increase in repeat purchase rates.

Good warehouse management not only demonstrates professionalism but also directly impacts customer trust and willingness to recommend the brand.

The excellent performance of stone-coated metal roof tiles is inseparable from sound storage management. Whether storing tiles for short-term or long-term storage, businesses and distributors should strictly adhere to the following principles:

Maintain ventilation and dryness to prevent moisture;

Use wooden planks for elevation to avoid grounding;

Prevent dust and sand from damaging the tiles and keep them clean;

Promptly ventilate the tiles after rain to prevent alkalinity reactions.

Proper storage not only protects the product but also demonstrates a commitment to our customers and enhances our brand image.

At AttiRoof, we understand that quality isn't just determined on the production line; it's reflected in every detail.

From the factory to the customer's warehouse, we are committed to providing scientific storage and transportation guidance to ensure every tile arrives in perfect condition.