From clay and slate to actual concrete, there are many types of materials available for your tile roof. Not only are these roofing tiles attractive and durable, but they are also easy to maintain in most cases. Of course, no roofing material is going to last forever, so there will come a time when you need to repair or replace your tile roof. With this guide, you will learn the signs your roofing tiles need to be repaired or even replaced.
Age
Most people are surprised to learn clay, slate, and concrete roofing tiles are resistant to fire, insects, and rot, making this roofing material one of the most durable. Again, your roofing tiles will not last forever, so they will down over time, decreasing the amount of coverage your home has.
On average, most manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty on their clay or slate roofing tiles. However, there are some instances where your roof tiles may last up to 100 years. If your roof tiles were installed 50 or more years ago, it is most likely time to consider a replacement.
Missing Tiles
There are also instances where one or more tiles will fall off your roof. For example, if the tiles have started to wear down, they may break off completely, falling off your roof. It is also common for some tiles to fall off after a heavy storm with forceful rain, hail, and wind.
You may think replacing the tiles that have fallen off will only be necessary. Unfortunately, as one or a few tiles fall off, other tiles may have become damaged. Therefore, you should not only replace the missing tiles but also have the rest of the tiles on your roof thoroughly inspected.
Granules
Another common sign that your tile roof is in distress is if you notice granules of clay, slate, or concrete on your roof, in gutters, or on the ground around your home. These granules are actual remnants of the roofing tiles, which have started to wear down, break apart, and fall off your roof.
Never assume these granules are a sign of normal wear and tear. Remember that clay and slate tiles, in particular, can last up to 50 or 100 years, so granules breaking off the tiles are a sure sign your roof is in distress.
Lifted/Curled Tiles
Heavy wind and rain can actually lift your roofing tiles. The pressure from the wind, rain, or other force can stress the nails securing the tiles on your roof. This causes them to lift upwards.
You may not notice the lifted tiles from below, but you may notice them when looking out the window of a second-story or inside the attic.
Even though the tiles are technically still attached to the roof, lifted/curled tiles should be replaced immediately. A great deal of water and moisture, dirt, debris, and even pests or animals can build up under the opening of these lifted tiles, increasing your risk of water damage, mold growth, and pest infestations.
Pockmarked
Pockmarked tiles are also a sign your roof is in distress. If heavy wind blows over your home, it may also blow dirt, dust, debris, and water across the roof. This can cause the roofing tiles to appear discolored and scarred in certain areas.
Pockmarked tiles not only affect the look of your home, though. The scarring is actual damage to the clay, slate, or concrete tile, which can lead to costly roof damage, water leaks, and overwhelming repairs.
If you notice any discolored or disfigured tiles, have them replaced as soon as possible.
Your tile roof is an important part of your home. This guide will help you determine when and if you should have the roof repaired or replaced. Get in touch with a company such as Seal Tight Roofing for more information.
One day when we were all sitting in our living room, I thought I felt a drop of water fall onto my arm. At first, I figured it was my imagination, but when the second one fell, I knew we had an issue. Although it wasn't raining that day, it had rained the day before, so I started looking for the source of the problem. After looking in my attic, I could tell what the problem was, and I knew I had to fix it. I started looking for ways to stop the water immediately, but it just wasn't working for me. Fortunately, roofers came out, fixed the problem, and showed me what I needed to do to clean up the mess. Read more on this blog.