Roofs have always played a vital role in the construction of homes, warehouses, industries, and commercial spaces. While traditional clay tiles, metal sheets, and concrete slabs have dominated for decades, new technologies have emerged to meet modern demands. Among these, telha sanduíche has become a standout solution in Brazil and many other countries due to its ability to combine strength, thermal insulation, acoustic performance, and cost-effectiveness in one system. This type of roofing is called “sandwich tile” because of its layered structure, where two metal sheets encase an insulating core, creating a system that resembles a sandwich.
In this article, we will explore in depth what telha sanduíche is, its components, types, manufacturing process, advantages, disadvantages, applications, cost considerations, and maintenance tips. You will also find a comparison with other roofing materials and practical insights into choosing the right option for your project.
What is Telha Sanduíche?
Telha sanduíche is a composite roofing panel made of two metallic layers (commonly galvanized steel, aluminum, or galvalume) with an insulating core sandwiched between them. The insulating material can vary—polyurethane (PU), polyisocyanurate (PIR), expanded polystyrene (EPS), or even mineral wool, depending on the performance requirements.
This design ensures structural strength from the outer metal layers while the internal core delivers thermal and acoustic insulation. Because of these properties, telha sanduíche is often used in residential, commercial, and industrial projects where energy efficiency and comfort are priorities.
Components of Telha Sanduíche
- External Metallic Layer
- Usually made of galvanized steel, galvalume, or aluminum.
- Provides weather resistance, strength, and durability.
- Can be coated or painted to increase corrosion resistance.
- Insulating Core
- The heart of the telha sanduíche.
- Materials: EPS, PU, PIR, or mineral wool.
- Determines the thermal and acoustic performance.
- Internal Metallic Layer
- Similar to the external layer but may be thinner.
- Ensures rigidity and protects the insulation from internal damage.
Types of Insulating Core
| Insulating Material | Characteristics | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) | Lightweight foam structure | Affordable, good thermal resistance | Lower fire resistance |
| PU (Polyurethane) | Dense foam | High insulation capacity, durable | Slightly more expensive |
| PIR (Polyisocyanurate) | Modified polyurethane | Excellent fire resistance, energy efficient | Higher cost |
| Mineral Wool | Fibrous material | Outstanding fireproofing, acoustic insulation | Heavier, costlier |
Manufacturing Process
The production of telha sanduíche involves advanced industrial techniques. The steps typically include:
- Metal Sheet Preparation – Steel or aluminum sheets are cleaned, galvanized, and coated.
- Insulation Placement – EPS, PU, PIR, or mineral wool slabs are cut and positioned between two sheets.
- Adhesion Process – Heat and pressure are applied to bond the layers firmly.
- Profiling – The assembled panel is shaped into corrugated or trapezoidal designs for strength.
- Finishing – Coating, painting, or protective layers are applied.
Advantages of Telha Sanduíche
- Thermal Insulation
Reduces heat transfer, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and lowering air-conditioning costs. - Acoustic Comfort
Minimizes external noise, ideal for urban areas or industrial zones. - Durability
Resistant to corrosion, pests, and weathering, ensuring long service life. - Lightweight Structure
Reduces load on the building, enabling cost savings on supporting structures. - Quick Installation
Pre-fabricated panels allow fast assembly, reducing construction time. - Aesthetic Options
Available in different colors, textures, and finishes to suit architectural designs.
Disadvantages of Telha Sanduíche
- Initial Cost
Higher upfront investment compared to simple metal roofing. - Moisture Issues
Poorly sealed panels may suffer from condensation problems. - Repairs
Damaged insulation core often requires replacement of the whole panel. - Special Handling
Needs trained professionals for proper installation.
Applications of Telha Sanduíche
- Residential Buildings
Increasingly used in modern homes for energy efficiency. - Commercial Structures
Supermarkets, shopping malls, and offices benefit from its insulation. - Industrial Warehouses
Reduces operational costs by maintaining stable internal conditions. - Agricultural Facilities
Protects stored grains, dairy, and poultry from heat and moisture. - Cold Storage and Food Processing Units
Ideal due to superior insulation performance.
Cost Analysis
The cost of telha sanduíche depends on:
- Type of insulation core (EPS is cheapest, PIR is most expensive).
- Thickness of panels.
- Metal type and coating.
- Transportation and installation charges.
Approximate Cost Structure (per m²):
| Insulation Type | Average Cost (BRL) | Lifespan | Application Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPS | 70 – 90 | 15–20 years | Residential, warehouses |
| PU | 90 – 120 | 20–25 years | Commercial, industrial |
| PIR | 110 – 140 | 25–30 years | Cold storage, fire-sensitive buildings |
| Mineral Wool | 130 – 160 | 25–30 years | High fire safety demand |
Installation Process
- Design and Planning – Calculate panel requirements based on area and slope.
- Support Structure Preparation – Ensure metal or concrete beams are aligned.
- Panel Placement – Start from one end, overlapping panels to avoid leakage.
- Fixation – Secure with self-drilling screws and washers.
- Sealing – Apply sealing tapes or foams in joints.
- Finishing Touches – Add ridges, flashings, and gutters.
Comparison with Other Roofing Materials
| Feature | Telha Sanduíche | Clay Tiles | Simple Metal Sheets | Concrete Slabs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insulation | Excellent | Moderate | Poor | Good |
| Durability | High | Medium | Medium | High |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Light | Very Heavy |
| Cost | Medium to High | Medium | Low | High |
| Installation Speed | Fast | Slow | Fast | Slow |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect panels periodically for dents, rust, or cracks.
- Keep gutters clean to avoid water accumulation.
- Reapply protective coatings if fading occurs.
- Ensure screws and joints remain tightly sealed.
- Replace damaged panels immediately to prevent further issues.
Sustainability Aspects
- Energy Efficiency – Reduces air-conditioning and heating requirements.
- Recyclability – Steel and aluminum layers are recyclable.
- Green Building Compliance – Meets sustainability certifications like LEED when paired with eco-friendly cores.
Conclusion
Telha sanduíche is more than just a roofing material; it is a comprehensive solution for modern construction. Its ability to deliver insulation, durability, and speed of installation makes it an excellent choice for both residential and industrial applications. While the initial cost may be higher than traditional options, the long-term benefits in energy savings, comfort, and maintenance justify the investment. With proper selection of insulating core and professional installation, telha sanduíche can serve effectively for decades, making it a future-ready roofing solution.
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FAQs
1. What is the lifespan of telha sanduíche?
Depending on the insulation material and maintenance, it can last between 20 and 30 years.
2. Is telha sanduíche fireproof?
Not all types are fireproof. PIR and mineral wool cores offer the best fire resistance.
3. Can telha sanduíche be used for residential houses?
Yes, it is increasingly used in modern homes due to its energy-saving properties.
4. Does telha sanduíche require special maintenance?
Only periodic inspections and cleaning are needed; major maintenance is minimal compared to traditional roofs.
5. Is it more expensive than regular tiles?
Yes, the initial investment is higher, but long-term savings on energy and repairs balance the cost.