Hello homeowners! Today we have some valuable tips on how to extend your tile roof’s life span to save money and keep your home in great shape. Tile roofs are fantastic because they can endure for decades, but they do require some care. Let’s dig into the details of proper maintenance and best practices!
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Routine inspections are fundamental to ensure your tile roof remains in top condition. We highly recommend scheduling professional inspections once a year just before monsoon season, usually around May. You may also want to get it inspected right after a severe storm with strong winds to make sure there was no damage.
A trained eye can spot early signs of wear, such as cracked or chipped tiles, and address them before they lead to more extensive damage or leaks. Additionally, proactive maintenance can prevent small issues from escalating into costly repairs.
How and When to Clean Your Roof
Cleaning your roof is an important part of maintenance, typically done at least once a year, especially before the rainy season or winter. The frequency might vary depending on your location, surrounding environment, and roof type. If you live in an area with many trees or foliage, more frequent cleaning may be needed to prevent debris buildup.
Whether to clean the roof yourself or hire a professional depends on your experience and comfort level with working at heights. Cleaning a roof can be challenging and potentially dangerous, requiring safety precautions and proper equipment. If you already have the right tools, experience, and knowledge to clean your roof without hurting yourself or damaging tiles, you might try cleaning your own roof, but for nearly all homeowners it’s not a good idea, and we recommend hiring a pro.
The Importance of Cleaning Gutters
Proper gutter maintenance goes hand in hand with tile roof care. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water backup, causing potential damage to the roof, fascia, and even your home’s foundation. Regularly inspect and clean gutters to ensure proper drainage. If you notice any cracks or sagging, repair or replace the gutters promptly to prevent water from seeping into the roof structure.
How to Deal With Birds
Birds will peck, nest, and poop on your roof constantly if not dealt with. The best way to keep pigeons off your roof is to have spikes installed. They’re not pretty, but they work. If birds poop on your roof too much, it can build up and prevent your roof from shedding water properly and can cause a leak. There are more reasons to keep birds off your roof that you can see here.
How to Address A Leak
Even with regular maintenance, unexpected roof leaks may still occur. If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, don’t ignore them! Also be wary during storms. If any debris falls on your roof you’ll want to check for damage and get it repaired right away. After a particularly rough storm, it’s usually a good idea to take a look at your roof to see if it needs repairs.
Once you notice or suspect a leak. Call a roofer right away to remove and replace damaged material before it gets worse or causes mold to grow.
What to Do About Severe Storms
Arizona’s weather can be quite challenging for roofs. From intense heat and sunlight to heavy monsoons and dust storms, your tile roof faces a lot.
It’s because of these storms that we recommend an inspection before, and after storms. One to make sure there’s no gaps for water to penetrate, and one to make sure there’s no damage from strong winds and debris. It may be a good idea to schedule inspections before and after both summer monsoons, and winter storms.
How to Combat Severe Heat
Effective roof insulation is essential for keeping your home comfortable and reducing energy consumption. Proper insulation prevents heat transfer, which helps your home stay cooler during hot summers. If you suspect that your roof is a major source of heat in your home and strain on your AC, it’s worth having a roofer check to make sure your roof is well insulated.
Can I Do DIY Repairs?
While some minor roof repairs can be done by homeowners, it’s essential to know your limits. Climbing on the roof and attempting complex repairs without proper tools and knowledge can be dangerous and may lead to more damage on your roof. If you’re ever uncertain or the repair seems beyond your capabilities, it’s best to call a professional roofer. When in doubt, do not try to fix your roof yourself, especially if it’s a 2 story house. Roofers have the expertise and experience to tackle repairs safely and effectively.
When is it Time to Replace a Tile Roof?
As much as we’d like our roofs to last forever, they do have a lifespan. Knowing when it’s time for a roof replacement is essential to avoid potential structural damage and costly repairs. Keep an eye out for signs such as significant wear and tear, frequent leaks, sagging, or cracked tiles. You may also want to get the whole roof replaced if a lot of damage is done (from a tree for example) and the rest of the roof was already old. If you notice any of these issues, consult with a professional roofer to assess the condition of your roof and determine if a replacement is necessary.
Taking care of your tile roof is an investment in your home’s long-term health and value. By performing regular inspections, cleaning, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can extend the lifespan of your roof and save big on repairs and replacement.