Tile roofing, which many people consider a premium roof,
has numerous benefits. The roofing material is durable, environmentally
friendly, energy-efficient, and impervious to pest damage. However, tile
roofing can suffer some damages just like other roofing materials. Below are
some of the damages your tile roof might suffer.
Tile Slippage
Problems also arise when some tiles slip off their normal
positions. The slippage might displace the tiles to other roof parts, or the
tiles might slip onto the ground. Tiles can slip if:
- The nails that hold them
corrode and loosen
- Fierce storms blow them
off
- The wood under the tiles
weaken, for example, due to pest infestation or water damage
- Ground movements, such
as earth tremors, affect the house
Your roof might not leak immediately after tile slippage.
The roofing layers under the tile will keep the water out. However, the
slippage exposes the roof to further damage, for example, from precipitation
and ultraviolet (UV) damage. Thus, slippage plus delayed repair can lead to
roof leaks.
Physical Tile Damages
Individual roofing tiles can suffer physical damages that
affect your roof's integrity. For example, roofing tiles can crack or chip due
to:
- The physical impact from
falling debris, such as tree branches
- Storm impact, such as
that from hailstorms
- Accumulated wear and
tear
- Accidental damage during
roof service
- Foot traffic
Broken or chipped tiles can affect your roof in significant
ways. For example, the damages can:
- Allow water to penetrate
other parts of the roof and cause damage
- Lead to roof leaks and
water damage in the house
- Allow the tiles to slide
off the roof during a storm
The risks are even more if the damages affect numerous
tiles.
Organic Growths
Your roof also has a problem if it is full of organic
growths, such as moss or algae. Three things can increase your tile roof's risk
of moss and algae growth:
- Organic debris, such as
plant matter
- Moisture or humidity
exposure
- High temperatures
For example, sections of the roof under shade are more
likely to experience algae growth than other parts. The moss and algae can:
- Discolor the roof and
dampen its curb appeal
- Penetrate cracks and
crevices on the roof and cause damages to other parts
- Accelerate the tiles'
deterioration
- Encourage pest
infestation
- Trap moisture and
trigger further roof damage
The more the roof stays moist, the higher the risk of these
growths.
Tile Discoloration
Roof tiles can discolor and interfere with your home's curb
appeal. Typical causes of tile discoloration include:
- Accumulation of calcium
carbonates on the roof after water exposure
- Algae or moss growth due
to high humidity or water exposure
- Corrosion effects from
metal objects on the roof, such as chimneys
- Dirt from debris, such
as plant matter
Tile discoloration is not just an aesthetic problem. For
example, algae or moss growths accelerate tile deterioration that might lead to
premature roof failure. Discoloration might also signify another roof problem,
such as water damage.
Water Seepage
Even a tile roof has other accessories or parts that are
not tiled. Thus, the accessories or support structures can still suffer damage,
just like other roofs. For example, your tile roof can leak even if the
individual tiles don't show signs of damage. That might be the case if debris
has blocked the roof's drainage channels, such as the gutters. Damaged flashing
can trigger a similar problem.
Hopefully, your tile roof will not suffer catastrophic
damage in its lifetime. Conduct regular roof maintenance to ensure that is the
case. Cal Roofing Systems Inc. deals with roofing materials, including tile
roofs. We have been active in the industry for over 30 years. Contact us
for help
with your tile roof or any other roofing need.
