Living in Arizona means enjoying sunny skies and warm weather most of the year.
However, it can be challenging to maintain a home in a climate that is hard on roofs.
Tile roofing is popular because of its durability and looks.
However, like any roofing material, tile roofs must be maintained and repaired correctly.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top five common tile roof repairs that homeowners may encounter.
Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to the area, understanding these repairs can help keep your tile roof in excellent shape for years.
Keep reading for great tips on roof maintenance that will keep your roof in top-notch condition.
1. Damaged and Displaced Tiles
One of the most common issues homeowners face is broken or cracked tiles.
This can happen due to different reasons, including:
- Impact damage
- Foot traffic during maintenance
- Poor installation
- Structural movement
- Age
- Weathering
- Temperature changes
Broken or cracked tiles compromise your roof’s integrity, as it can result in leaks and water damage inside your home.
High winds, expansion and contraction, and improper installation can cause individual tiles to lift or slip out of place on a tile roof.
This can also lead to leaks and potential structural damage.
Displaced tiles compromise the integrity of the roof system.
When this happens, the roof becomes susceptible to damage during severe weather events.
2. Leaky Roof Valleys
Roof valleys, where two sloping sections of the roof meet, are vulnerable areas prone to leaks, especially in tile roofs.
Over time, wear and tear and improper installation can cause the flashing or underlayment in these areas to deteriorate, resulting in leaks during heavy rain or monsoon season.
Signs of underlayment deterioration include water stains on the ceiling, mold or mildew, and sagging or buckling tiles.
Addressing leaks in roof valleys promptly is essential to prevent water damage to the interior of your home and avoid costly repairs down the line.
If you even suspect that there might be a leak, it’s best to get it looked at.
Replacing worn-out underlayment is crucial to maintain the waterproofing integrity of your roof and protect your home from water damage.
3. Ridge Cap Damage
The ridge cap is the roof’s peak where the two sloping sides meet.
It is covered with special tiles called ridge caps, which help protect the roof from water intrusion and provide a finished look.
Damage to the ridge cap can compromise the waterproofing of your roof and allow water to seep underneath.
Ridge caps help maintain the roof’s structural integrity by providing support and stability along the ridge line.
Damaged ridge caps can weaken this support, potentially leading to further unresolved structural issues.
Ignoring ridge cap damage can allow moisture to penetrate deeper into the roofing system, potentially causing damage to the underlying materials such as decking, insulation, and rafters.
Prompt repair or replacement of damaged ridge caps can prevent these issues from escalating.
4. Ponding Water
Flat or low-sloped sections of tile roofs can sometimes develop ponding water.
This happens especially after heavy rainfall or during monsoon season.
The water accumulates and remains stagnant on the roof surface for an extended period, often due to inadequate drainage or improper roof slopes.
Over time, ponding water can deteriorate the roofing materials.
It can compromise the underlayment and contribute to tile roof leaks and structural damage.
Addressing this may require:
- Adjustments to the roof slope
- Installation of additional drainage systems
- Repairs to damaged roofing materials to ensure proper water runoff
5. Flashing Damage
Flashing is the rubber or metal material installed around vents, chimneys, and skylights to prevent water from seeping into the roof.
In Arizona’s extreme weather conditions, flashing can deteriorate over time due to exposure to:
- Intense heat
- UV radiation
- Occasional heavy rain
When flashing becomes damaged or corroded, it can compromise the waterproofing of your roof.
General Tile Roof Maintenance Tips
Inspect your roof twice yearly to identify damage or wear and tear.
Look for the following:
- Cracked tiles
- Broken tiles
- Displaced tiles
- Damaged flashing
- Signs of water infiltration
If you notice a few cracked or broken tiles, you can replace them yourself.
Just remove the damaged tile by lifting the surrounding tiles and sliding it out.
Then, insert a new tile in its place and secure it properly.
Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
Blocked gutters can lead to water backup and potential damage to the roof and home interior.
Use a leaf blower or a long broom to remove debris directly from the roof.
Cut branches that overhang the roof to prevent them from damaging the tiles during windy conditions.
Overhanging branches can also deposit debris on the roof, leading to clogged gutters and potential roof damage.
If you notice areas of standing water on your roof after rainfall, address this promptly to prevent water damage and deterioration of roofing materials.
Hire a local roof repair professional to improve the slope or install additional drainage.
Apply roof sealant in cracks or gaps in your roof tiles or flashing.
Ensure the area is clean and dry before applying the sealant, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Implement measures to deter pests such as birds, rodents, and insects from nesting on or near your roof.
Install bird deterrents, seal entry points, and trim nearby vegetation to reduce the risk of pest infestation and damage to the roof.
Consider applying a protective sealant or coating to your tile roof to enhance its durability and weather resistance.
Consult with professional roof repair services to determine the best coating for your roof type and climate conditions.
Addressing the Most Common Tile Roof Repairs
Stay proactive and maintain your tile roof to keep your home safe.
Address any of the mentioned common tile roof repairs promptly and follow an inspection routine.
Doing this will extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent expensive damage down the line.
JLC Roofing Inc. serves clients in Peoria, Glendale, and Phoenix, offering comprehensive tile roofing solutions.
With 30 years of dedicated service, we can handle your needs, from routine maintenance to complete tile roof replacement.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment and discuss your roofing requirements.
Seeking reliable roof repair Phoenix services? JLC Roofing has you covered! For 20+ years, we have been committed to delivering a 5-star roofing experience to each of our clients. Contact us today at (623) 878-9832 or request an estimate online.
