Installer Clay and Concrete Tile Exam

NRCA ProCertification Roof System Installer Clay and Concrete Tile Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a roof underlayment in a clay or

concrete tile roof system?

• Decorative finish
• Structural support
• Waterproofing and secondary protection
• Insulation

Rationale: The underlayment acts as a secondary water barrier in

case tiles are displaced or cracked.

• Which type of clay tile is commonly used for curved, barrel-style

roofs? 1 / 4

• Flat tile
• Interlocking tile
• Mission (S-shaped) tile
• Slate tile

Rationale: Mission tiles have an S-shape that creates the traditional

barrel roof profile.

• What is the minimum roof slope recommended for concrete tile

installation?

A. 1:12

B. 2:12

C. 2.5:12

D. 4:12

Rationale: Concrete tiles require a minimum slope of 2.5:12 to ensure proper water shedding.

• Which fastener type is preferred for securing clay tiles to a roof deck?
• Nails only
• Corrosion-resistant screws
• Staples
• Adhesive only

Rationale: Screws provide superior holding power and resistance to

wind uplift compared to nails.

• What is the main reason for installing battens on a clay tile roof?
• To add insulation 2 / 4

• To decorate the roof
• To provide a nailing surface and allow ventilation
• To hold underlayment in place

Rationale: Battens support tile attachment and create airflow

beneath the tiles.

• What type of underlayment is typically used for clay and concrete tile

roofs in high-slope applications?

• Asphalt felt
• Synthetic underlayment
• Plywood only
• Tar paper

Rationale: Synthetic underlayments provide superior tear resistance,

durability, and slip resistance.

• Which of the following is a primary cause of cracking in concrete roof

tiles?

• Excessive underlayment
• Incorrect mortar color
• Improper handling or foot traffic
• Excessive slope

Rationale: Concrete tiles are brittle and can crack if dropped or

walked on incorrectly.

• What is the purpose of ridge tiles on a clay tile roof?
• To waterproof the valley 3 / 4

• To ventilate the attic
• To cover the ridge and prevent water penetration
• To attach the underlayment

Rationale: Ridge tiles seal the peak of the roof and protect against

rain intrusion.

• How should clay tiles be cut for fitting around chimneys?
• With a hammer only
• With a saw designed for metal
• With a masonry saw or grinder
• With a handsaw

Rationale: Clay tiles are dense and brittle; a masonry saw ensures

precise cuts without excessive breakage.

• What is the recommended overlap for underlayment on tile

roofs?

• 1 inch
• 2 inches
• 4 inches
• 6 inches

Rationale: A 4-inch overlap provides adequate water resistance and

proper drainage.

• What is the primary function of valley metal in a tile roof

system?

• Decorative finish
• / 4