Different Forms of Tile Roofing Damage

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.