CFD analysis of roof tile coverings

An increase in volumetric flow rate through the tiles was found to be related not only to an increase in the open area between tiles, but also to the design of the tile locks. By redesigning the geometry of these locks, whilst still giving consideration to their primary purpose of preventing the ingress of driving rain, it was possible to yield an improvement in air permeability of up to 100% in comparison with the original designs. Additionally, these novel designs were shown to increase the air flow rate as the wind angle moved from being directly up the roof slope around to the side, in contrast to the decrease seen with existing tile shapes.