What is an improved Dutch pantile?
The improved Dutch pantile (Dutch: ‘verbeterde Hollandse pan’, VH) is a clay roof tile with the shape of the traditional Dutch pantile, but with head and side interlocks and a shallower wave. The roof seals better and looks straighter and calmer than with the old pantile. The VH has been made since around 1900; manufacturers also call it ‘verbeterde holle pan’.
VH, OVH and the old Dutch pantile
- Dutch pantile: the classic, deeply curved S-tile without real interlocks.
- VH: interlocking, with a flat, crisp wave.
- OVH (opnieuw verbeterde Hollandse pan): also interlocking, but with a deeper curve again, closer to the historic look.
Choosing between VH and OVH is therefore mainly a matter of appearance: crisp (VH) or classically curved (OVH). Many VH models have an extra water channel in the wave, a V-shape on Monier tiles and ‘eyebrows’ on Wienerberger’s.
Roof pitch and laying
The minimum pitch depends on the model. Two examples from manufacturers’ documentation for the Dutch market: the Monier VH-Variabel Plus is approved from 15°, with extra requirements for the underlay between 15° and 22°; the Wienerberger VHV Klassiek from 25°. Coverage for these models is around 15 to 16 tiles per m², depending on batten gauge. Always follow the data sheet of the tile you choose.
Tips and points of attention
- Fixing: in the Netherlands, tile fixing is calculated to NPR 6708; manufacturers offer a calculation tool or service. Elsewhere, follow local standards and the manufacturer’s fixing schedule.
- Watertight underlay: manufacturers require a water-shedding underlay and a ventilated ridge and eaves.
- Measure the batten gauge when re-roofing: many VH tiles are variable, but only within a range. If it does not fit, the battens must be redone.
- Matching fittings: ridge and verge tiles belong to the same range.
Related terms
- Dutch pantile
- OVH roof tile
- Roof tile interlock
- Roof pitch
- Batten
- Roof tiles
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.