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IS 6071:1986 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for concrete interlocking roofing tiles. This standard specifies the requirements for materials, manufacture, dimensions, physical properties, and testing of concrete interlocking roofing tiles. It aims to ensure the quality, durability, and weather resistance of tiles used for pitched roof coverings.
Specifies requirements for concrete interlocking roofing tiles.
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Tiles are brittle; handle with care during transport and installation to avoid chipping interlocking joints, which is crucial for water tightness.
! Efflorescence (white powdery deposit) may appear on new tiles but is typically a temporary aesthetic issue and not a structural defect.
! Strict adherence to the manufacturer's recommended headlap and sidelap during installation is critical to prevent leaks, especially in areas with heavy rainfall.
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
concreteroofingcementaggregatestiles
International Equivalents
Similar International Standards
EN 490:2011+A1:2017CEN (European Committee for Standardization), Europe
HighCurrent
Concrete roofing tiles and fittings for roof covering and wall cladding - Product specifications
Specifies requirements for concrete roofing tiles and fittings for pitched roofs and wall cladding.
ASTM C1492-03(2016)ASTM International, USA
HighCurrent
Standard Specification for Concrete Roof Tiles
Covers concrete roof tiles, their dimensional tolerances, and physical property requirements.
SANS 542:2009SABS (South African Bureau of Standards), South Africa
MediumCurrent
Concrete roofing tiles
Details specifications for unreinforced precast concrete roofing tiles and associated fittings.
AS 2049-2002Standards Australia, Australia
MediumCurrent
Roof tiles
Specifies requirements for both concrete and terracotta roof tiles, making its scope broader.
Key Differences
≠The water permeability test in IS 6071 is qualitative (no drops after 24 hours), whereas EN 490 uses a quantitative method, measuring the volume of water passed (Impermeability Factor K).
≠IS 6071 specifies a single minimum transverse breaking strength (900 N) at a fixed span, while EN 490 links the required strength to the tile's intended support span, making it a more performance-based requirement (e.g., ≥1200 N for a >290 mm span).
≠Freeze-thaw resistance testing is not specified in IS 6071, reflecting India's predominantly warm climate. In contrast, EN 490 and ASTM C1492 include mandatory and detailed freeze-thaw cycle tests for tiles used in colder regions.
≠Dimensional tolerances in IS 6071 are absolute (e.g., ±2 mm on length/width), while EN 490 uses relative tolerances (e.g., ±2% of covering length/width), which is more adaptable to different tile sizes.
Key Similarities
≈All standards cover the same fundamental product: precast concrete interlocking tiles for pitched roofing applications.
≈All standards mandate core physical tests, including transverse breaking strength, dimensional checks, and water absorption/permeability, to ensure basic tile quality and performance.
≈The maximum water absorption limit is very similar; IS 6071 specifies a maximum of 10% by mass, and ASTM C1492 for Grade 1 tiles also specifies an average below 10%.
≈All standards include clauses for visual inspection, requiring tiles to be free from significant defects such as cracks, laminations, and surface imperfections that would impair function or durability.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Transverse Breaking Load (Minimum)
900 N (at 250 mm span)
≥ 1200 N (for support span > 290 mm)
EN 490:2011+A1:2017
Water Permeability Criterion
No drops on underside after 24 hours
Impermeability factor K ≤ 0.5 cm³/(cm²·d)
EN 490:2011+A1:2017
Water Absorption (Maximum)
10% by mass
< 10% average for Grade 1 tiles
ASTM C1492-03(2016)
Dimensional Tolerance (Length/Width)
± 2 mm
± 2% of declared covering dimension
EN 490:2011+A1:2017
Freeze-Thaw Resistance Test
Not specified
Mandatory for relevant climates (150 cycles)
EN 490:2011+A1:2017
Weight Tolerance (per tile)
± 7.5%
± 10% of declared mass
EN 490:2011+A1:2017
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values5
Quick Reference Values
Minimum transverse breaking load900 N
Maximum water absorption10 % by mass
Permeability test requirementNo water leakage on underside after 24 hours
Tolerance on overall length/width± 5 mm
Tolerance on thickness± 2 mm
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Permissible Dimensional Variations
Table 2 - Physical Requirements
Key Clauses
Clause 4 - Materials
Clause 6 - Dimensions and Workmanship
Clause 7 - Physical Requirements
Clause 9 - Tests
Annex B - Method for Determination of Transverse Strength
Annex C - Method for Determination of Water Permeability