Tile roofs are well known for their long lifespan and beautiful aesthetic. While your tile roof might be able to last for a long time, that doesn't mean it won't need repairs or routine maintenance from time to time. Making repairs before they become bigger problems can help your roof's longevity and keep it looking great. Here are five warning signs that you need a tile roof repair soon:
Missing Tiles
The clearest sign you will need to call up tile roof repair contractors is if you notice any missing tiles on your roof. Although tiles are quite strong and resistant to the elements, eventual wear and tear over the years can leave their fasteners weaker and vulnerable. Tiles will often fall or fly off due to high winds, severe rainstorms and even due to extreme sun and heat exposure. You can figure out if your roof is missing tiles by observing it from the outside Before you go searching for "replacement roof tiles near me," verify how many tiles are missing. Chances are that if one tile is missing, multiple tiles may be missing. Missing tiles will also expose your roof underlayment to UV rays, which can cause damage to the integrity of the waterproof barrier and invite leaks, so replacing missing tiles is not something you want to hold off on.
Broken Tiles
Roof tiles will crack for various reasons like storm damage, falling tree branches, hail and freezing temperatures. Broken tiles can lead to damaged underlayment from harsh UV rays, storms or animals. If the waterproof underlayment becomes damage, not only do you risk letting water inside your house, but you also may end up with a much larger and costlier repair than just a few broken or cracked tiles. Once you notice a few broken tiles on your roof, you might wonder, "Are there tile roof repair contractors near me?" before you start to experience any of the problems caused down the line. Make sure you address this problem as soon as you see it, rather than waiting for tiny cracks to become a big problem.
Noticeable Rust
While your tiles might not rust, other things on your roof will. It's common for roof vents and roof flashing on homes in coastal states, like Florida, to experience corrosion and rust. Flashing that has rusted can't defend against water and will need to be repaired or replaced. Flashing directly protects your home from moisture, and, if not maintained correctly, can cause water leaks and interior damage. If you notice any corrosion or rust on the roof, you will want to get it fixed before any interior damage occurs.
Roof Algae Growth
A warning sign that you might have algae growing on a roof is noticeable dark spots and stains in a specific area of the roof. Algae growth is common on tile roofs, especially in places with warm weather. While algae are sometimes visible on the exterior of tiles, the algae often grow in the space between tiles due to their design. This may be especially apparent with barrel tile roofs, where there is a larger gap between the tile and the roof deck. Algae can cause the roof structure to deteriorate and accumulate excessive moisture, which then leads to roof leaks. It's something you will want to remove sooner rather than later since it can reduce the lifespan of the roof and affect its looks, causing discoloration and stains. It's possible to clean algae by yourself, but once your roof is clean, it's recommended to get a professional to inspect the roof for any damage. Maintenance like trimming trees around the roof, washing the roof, applying algae-prevention products and cleaning gutters should also be done to prevent the problem from reappearing.
High Energy Bills
Apart from the insulation that's already in your building, your roof also acts as an insulator. Tile roofs are exceptionally energy-efficient, significantly reducing the amount of heat that enters your building and redirecting the sun's rays away from it. In warm states, this energy efficiency goes a long way in lowering commercial building's air conditioner costs. If you've witnessed a sudden rise in costs for your energy bills, then it can point towards a problem with the roof. When the roof no longer protects against the sun during summer or the cold during winter, it will reflect on the bills.