Tile roofs can last for many years with proper preventative care. Taking a few simple steps can help maintain your roof’s integrity, preventing unnecessary repairs and costly roofing replacements. In this article, we will provide 5 preventative care tips for your tile roof, as well as outline some of the common questions related to this topic and provide our final thoughts.
1. Regularly Clean and Inspect Your Roof
Regularly cleaning and inspecting your roof is an important part of preventative care. It is important to get rid of any debris, such as leaves and branches, which can damage and weaken the tiles. This can also help keep away any critters or pests which may otherwise nest and make their home on your roof. To inspect your tile roof more deeply, you can use a pair of binoculars to identify any potential issues, such as shifts in color, cracks, or any other damage.
What Tools are Needed for Cleaning and Inspecting a Tile Roof?
You don’t need to be a professional roofer to perform a thorough inspection of your tile roof. In fact, a pair of binoculars, a pair of boots with good traction, and a ladder all you need to inspect your roof safely. A broom or soft brush can help you clean off any debris, such as leaves. For more serious cleaning, you may need to invest in a soft-bristled brush and detergent to remove more persistent dirt and grime.
2. Ensure Proper Drainage
It is important to ensure that your roof is properly draining. If there is any water or ice pooling in any areas, this can lead to premature wear and tear on the tiles, as well as create pathways for water infiltration. You can easily check for any pooling or poor drainage by inspecting the roofing tiles and the gutters from the ground, or from using a pair of binoculars. Additionally, checking the angle of your tiles and ensuring that none are facing too much downwards can reduce the possibility of pooling.
Should I Clean My Gutters?
Yes, there is an overriding benefit to cleaning your gutters on a regular basis, regardless of type of roofing you have. Clogged gutters can lead to pooling water, causing roofing and basement flooding issues. Cleaning your gutters regularly with a hose can help ensure that any water that falls on your roof is drained in an efficient manner.
3. Repair Damaged or Missing Tiles
Repairing any cracked, broken, chipped, or missing tiles should be a priority for the preventative care of your roof. Over time, these damaged tiles can compromise the integrity of your roof, making it more vulnerable to water or wind damage. To repair these affected tiles, you should consider adopting a system of proactive roof maintenance and look for any damaged or missing tiles on a regular basis.
How Do I Replace Tiles?
Replacing tiles on a tile roof can be a tricky endeavor. You should always consult a professional to repair or replace tiles, as shifting tiles can lead to additional damage and put your home at risk of serious water damage. A professional roofer should have the tools and experience to replace tiles in a safe and secure manner.
4. Caulking and Sealing Gaps Around the Roof
Caulking and sealing any gaps around your roof is another important step to take in preventative care. If left unchecked, these potential entry points can provide pathways for moisture and enable it to enter the roof, leading to costly roof damage. Additionally, you should regularly inspect your roofing vents and other openings to ensure they are properly sealed and functioning.
How Often Should I Caulk and Seal Around My Roof?
To properly maintain the integrity of the roofing, it is recommended that you caulk and seal around your roof at least once a year. You should reseal and caulk any affected areas after the initial inspection, as well as include this step in your regular home maintenance checklist.
5. Consider Coating Your Tiles
One of the easiest ways to protect your tile roof for many years to come is to consider applying a coat onto your tiles. Having a coating applied to tiles can help reduce the possibility of holes, cracks, or other damage from occurring. This can also help prevent any further erosion of your tile roof and ensure its waterproof capabilities are maintained over the long-term.
What Types of Coatings are Available?
The type of coating you choose will depend on the type of tile you have on your roof. Generally speaking, acrylic, silicone, asphalt and aluminized coatings are all available and have their own unique benefits. Before applying any coating to your tiles, you should speak to a professional roofer to determine which type of coating will work best for your specific needs.
People Also Ask
What is the Life Span of a Tile Roof?
With proper preventative care, a tile roof can last for up to fifty years. This, of course, depends on the quality and maintenance of the roof.
Are Tile Roofs Expensive?
Tile roofs are typically more expensive than other roof types, due to their superior durability and longer life span.
How Do I Check for Damage on My Tile Roof?
To check for damage on your tile roof, you can use a pair of binoculars to identify any potential issues, such as shifts in color, cracks, or any other damage.
Do Tile Roofs Need Regular Maintenance?
Yes, tile roofs need regular maintenance. This includes regularly cleaning and inspecting your roof, ensuring proper drainage, repairing damaged or missing tiles, caulking and sealing gaps around the roof, and considering coating your tiles.
Conclusion
The lifespan and integrity of your tile roof depends on how well it is taken care of and maintained. Following the 5 preventative care tips outlined in this article can help you ensure that your roof remains in good condition for many years to come, avoiding any costly roof replacements or repairs. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your tiles is the best way to identify any potential issues before they become larger problems.