how to replace clay roof tiles
Clay roof tiles are popular because they are a classic, durable material and provide excellent isolation — but what happens if you have to replace some? The answer to that will be in the following guide, where we'll explore why you would replace clay tiles on a roof and how.
Why Do Clay Roof Tiles Crack?
Sometimes, it can be challenging to identify if you need to replace clay roof tiles. Let's explore four telltale signs that you might need to perform or schedule a replacement.
1. Chipped or Cracked Tiles
Clay tile roofs are known for their strength, so if you notice a chip or a crack in a tile, it's time to replace it. While your clay-tiled roof might withstand severe weather, tiles may crack if you walk on them too heavily. Be careful when replacing them. Cracked roof tiles may also cause leaks, leading to a host of other challenges to overcome.
2. Underlayment Wear and Tear
Although the professional who installed your tiles most likely made sure your underlayment had a watertight seal, it can still show signs of wear and tear. If this is the case, you may notice some dampness in your underlayment, meaning your roof isn't repelling water properly.
3. Eave Stains
Take a look underneath the roof at your eaves. If you see water stains, it may be time to replace your clay tile roof. Water stains signify the lowest ends of your roof are collecting water, promoting crack development.
4. Slips
Roof tiles tend to slip when the nails holding them in place are displaced by heavy winds or rain. They can also slip when the nails holding them down start to erode, leading to damage.
How Do You Replace a Broken Clay Roof Tile?
Although it may be tempting to replace a broken clay roof tile yourself, sometimes it's best to air on the safer side. Huber & Associates does not advise replacing clay roof tiles yourself. Instead, find a certified roofing company that specializes in clay tile maintenance.
When you get help from a professional service, you'll ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Instead of risking injury and taking time out of your day, a professional service will provide convenience and peace of mind.
The steps you'll need to take when replacing your clay roof tiles are laid out below:
Identify the issues on the clay tiles and where those tiles are on your roof. If you see cracks, leaks or water stains on one spot of your roof, inspect your whole roof for other problems.
When replacing your roof tiles, make sure you have a strong ladder or platform to reach the tile you're replacing with ease. It's always a good idea to make sure you place your ladder on a firm surface and have someone hold it for you when you're on it. You can even attach a safety harness to the nearest steel pipe for extra support.
The next step is to remove the broken tile. Grab a wooden wedge and position it underneath. You will have access to the nail holding down the tile from there.
Once you see the nail, tap the tile around it until the tile breaks. Be careful not to break any surrounding healthy tiles.
Use a pry bar and remove the exposed nail.
Locate the center of the bare roof and hammer a tile clip into it. Make sure you've purchased the right sized clip for your tiles. Replacement clay roof tiles are always fitted with a tile clip because they are far easier to install than nails. You can easily buy a tile clip at your nearest hardware store.
Hammer a tile clip into the center of the bare roof, which the replacement tile will cover.
Now it's time to remove the wooden wedge while lifting the old tile. Use this opening to slide in your replacement tile and lower it. Make sure the new tile rests firmly on the hook at the bottom of the clip.
How Do You Repair a Cracked Clay Roof Tile?
Let's take a look at a process more specific to repairing a cracked roof tile:
Place the ladder: As previously mentioned, you don't want to walk on your roofing tiles because they will crack under your weight, which is why you need an extendable, foldable ladder if the tile is out of reach of the eaves.
Clean the crack: Once you've folded the ladder over the roof, you need to clean the cracked area on your tile. You can use a wire brush or a toothbrush to apply dish soap mixed with water for this cleaning. After you clean the crack, let it dry for a full day.
Apply silicone caulking: Silicone caulking is known for its strength and durability, so snatch some of it up and apply it to the cracked area of your tile while pushing down into the crack with your finger. Remove any excess caulking with a rag soaked in acetone.
Repair the cement: Your final step in repairing a cracked roof tile is to apply repair cement onto the tile while pushing down into the crack with your finger or a putty knife. Clean the tile off as you did before. Make sure there is no repair cement hardening of the surface of your tile.
How to Fix Leaks on Clay Tile Roof
Let's explore how to fix a leak on a clay tile roof:
Inspect: Examine your entire roof for any damage the leak may have caused.
Gather: Gather all of your equipment, which may include a foldable ladder, sturdy shoes and replacement tiles.
Remove: Remove the damaged tile with a wood wedge or a crowbar.
Replace: Replace the damaged tiles and then look beneath your crowbar to see if any holdings need to be adjusted. Then, hold the raised tile while sliding the crowbar out from underneath it.
Clay Tile Maintenance Tips
Here are some tips to help you avoid damaged clay roof tiles.
1. Ask a Professional to Clean Your Roof
Your clay roof will last longer if it's regularly cleaned. Over time, clay roof tiles can collect dirt, mold and algae, especially if they are consistently wet due to the weather. It's best to work with a professional when you're doing anything with your roof because they will be skilled in the job at hand. It can be a challenge to figure out the proper water pressure needed to clean your roof, but a professional will know exactly what pressure to use on your particular tile.
2. Ask an Expert About Sealing the Tiles
Although your roof will last a long time without sealing, it will be easier to clean and maintain if you get it sealed by a professional. You and a professional can decide if your roof should be sealed and whether it needs to be cleaned first.
3. Schedule an Annual Roof Inspection
An annual roof inspection is vital in ensuring the long-term health of your roof. After major weather events, you can schedule these inspections to ensure the elements have not done any significant damage to your tiles. While you can climb on your roof to inspect it yourself, it's not recommended as it is unsafe without the proper equipment a professional has and knows how to use.
Get Clay Tile Roof Restoration From Huber & Associates
Why choose clay tile? It's stylish with a natural appearance and is often the choice of those who want eco-friendly homes. Maintain your tiles with our help.
With over 40 years of experience, Barry Huber and the Huber & Associates team are waiting to provide you with excellent clay tile roofing restoration services paired with outstanding customer service. We provide these services for commercial properties, historic homes and private estates throughout the U.S. and internationally.
If you want to know more about us and how we can help you, contact us online or give us a call at (386) 487-1040.