In fact, clay tile roofs are known to be last longer than the asphalt-shingle roofs. Tile roofing, either clay, concrete, or slate, is a durable choice for homeowners with an eye for style and longevity. Yet even the strongest tile roofs need routine maintenance to remain in optimal shape.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In this article, we will cover the types of tile roof problems you may encounter, maintenance tips, the difference between hiring a roofing professional and doing repairs yourself, and how to find a tile roof contractor you can trust. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand how to get great value out of your investment while extending the lifespan of your tile roof as well!
Why Choose a Tile Roof?
Before we dive into maintenance, it is helpful to understand why tile roofs are considered such a noble element. Here are some of the benefits that might help explain their rise in popularity:
Tile roofs offer incredible durability, lasting more than 50 years—with the proper care and maintenancedone, they are one of the longest-lasting viable roofing materials.
Tile can help save on energy costs: Tile provides natural insulation, so it helps keep indoor temperatures regulated better than many other materials.
Aesthetics: Tile roofs come in a variety of colors, styles and shapes — they’ll improve curb appeal on essentially any home design.
Fire and Weather Resistance: Tile roofs’ resistance to fire, heat, hail, and high winds is excellent for homes facing extreme weather.
The benefits are obvious, but maintenance is key to capitalizing on the full benefits of tile roofing.
Common Tile Roof Problems
Tile roofs are extremely durable but do not come without issues. Over time, tile roofs can face several common issues:
Cracked or Broken Tiles
From shifting temperatures, to heavy impacts (such as falling branches), to age-related wear, individual tiles can crack or break. Broken tiles can expose your underlayment to damage.
Leaks or Moisture Build-Up
Most leaks stem from a broken tile]] or erroneous installation. Even the slightest gaps between tiles can permit water to penetrate into the roof and cause moisture to develop and wreak havoc on the underlying structure.
Moss and Algae Growth
San Diego—Tile roofs attract moss, algae, and lichen, which flourish in wetter climates. Although these organisms may appear harmless, they can contribute to slippery or deteriorating tiles over time.
Structural Shifting
Over time, the expansion and contraction caused by weather can put pressure on the tiles or roof structure so that they move individually away from their correct alignment, resulting in a gap.
Tile Roof Maintenance Tips
Insurance is a necessary evil when you own a car, to an extent.plotMaintenanceYou can prevent small problems turning into costly repairs with regular upkeep. Here are some effective tips to keep your tile roof healthy:
Schedule Regular Inspections
Schedule a roof inspection by a professional at least once a year — or after extreme weather. Inspections can uncover cracks, leaks or weakened areas that may be hidden from you during a visual inspection.
Clean Debris and Moss
Remove any leaves, branches, or debris from your roof and gutters regularly to avoid blockages and prevent excess weight from the snow. Remove moss and algae with a pressure washer (set on low) or a roof cleaning solution.
Check for Damaged Tiles
When cleaning or inspecting, check for broken tiles. If you have damaged tiles as well, replace those tiles; damaged tiles can cause leaks, which can lead to further complications.
Protect Against Pests
You might also find bats, birds, and other pests trying to nest under your tiles. It must also assure the ridge caps are sealed, and repair any breaks they will exploit.
Monitor Nearby Trees
Trimming overhanging branches can help minimize a potential debris barrage on your roof.
DIY Repairs vs Professional Services
When you notice a problem with your tile roof, you may question whether to repair or call a professional. Both choices come with advantages and disadvantages depending on the specific repair.
DIY Repairs
Small problems like a single cracked tile can be a DIY repair as long as you’re comfortable with heights and have the right tools. But be careful: Walking on a tile roof the wrong way can cause even more damage. While it is safe on soft-soled shoes, it is still capable of producing cracks in the tiles, so always maintain safety risk awareness.
Professional Services
For more extensive repairs — like patching leaks, fixing structural shifts or addressing extensive damage — you’ll want to enlist the help of a roofing pro. A professional will possess the expertise and tools needed to adequately resolve the situation without inflicting further damage. Most contractors also have a warranty on their work for an added peace of mind.
How Much Tile Roof Maintenance and Repairs Cost
How much does it cost to maintain/repair a tile roof?
Inspections: Usually run from $100 to $300, depending on how big your roof is and how thorough the inspection is.
Cleanings: Cleaning services for moss and debris generally charge between $0.15 and $0.70 per square foot.
Repairs: Small repairs, such as replacing a few tiles, can run $200–$500, while larger repairs can go $1,000 to $3,000.
Replacements: If your roof needs a major job, replacing partial sections or the entire roof can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000 and up.
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Tips For Getting A Good Roofing Contractor
For tile roof repairs or maintenance, hiring the right contractor is crucial. To help you locate a reputable professional, here are a few suggestions:
Ask for Recommendations
Friends, family or neighbors who’ve had roofing work done recently can be a great source of recommendations. They can offer insight into the contractor’s dependability and quality of work based on their own firsthand experience.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any contractor you’re considering is licensed to operate where you live and has adequate insurance to protect you and their workers.
Read Reviews
Read online reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp or Angi. Choose contractors that have uniformly good reviews.
Request References
Get previous job references from potential contractors. Talking to past clients can give you insights into how professional, timely and knowledgeable they are.
Get Multiple Quotes
It’s always a good practice to get a variety of quotes before committing to one. Be cautious of quotes that appear too good to be true — lowball offers can correlate with shoddy work.
The Hidden Benefits of a Regular Maintenance Plan
While some upkeep may be needed for your tile roof, it’s a small cost when youconsider the advantages it provides. With regular inspections, debris cleaning, minor issues, and repairs done, you can prolong the life of your roof and protect your home for decades.
For more complicated repairs, it’s definitely worth hiring a professional contractor to ensure they show your tile roof the attention it needs.
Well, don’t leave the longevity of your tile roof up to fate—be proactive, read these tips, and keep your roof looking great for years to come.
