Category: Latest Homeowner Articles

The NRCIA indicates that most roof problems result from deferred roof maintenance or lack thereof. The roof system is the structure’s first line of defense from the natural elements. In the last decade, weather patterns have changed, requiring more attention to maintain a LeakFREE ® roof system.

As climate change progresses, normal rains have turned to disastrous heavy downpours while the winds have become more powerful and destructive. For instance, the intense Santa Ana winds can be detrimental to roof systems and other property systems.  The sun’s scourging rays cause roof deficiencies (cracking, fading, curling, etc.) when the structure is not adequately ventilated. 

According to NRCIA, homeowners in Southern California spend over $10k rectifying the damages (direct and consequential) caused by a leaking roof. Out of all the roofs inspected, 77% usually require repair, and 9% need a replacement to qualify for NRCIA’s LeakFREE ® Roof Certification.

Replacing a structure’s roof system can be stressful both financially and time-consuming. The national average to replace a roof is $15,000. NRCIA reports that the average cost to replace a roof is $15,000.

NRCIA recommends that every property owner inspect their roofs annually by a licensed roof inspector. The following seven reasons underscore why an Annual Roof Inspection is now an essential component in a proper roof care plan. 

1. Climate Change

The environment has changed over the years due to various factors such as human activities and industrialization. Across the United States, these new weather patterns have become the norm. Seasonal changes from severe hot weather to significant temperature fluctuations can cause damage to roofing material based on its age, condition, and maintenance care routine.

Such weather conditions have affected the roof maintenance routine customarily carried out once every few years. Early, late, or extended severe weather conditions cause unexpected damage to a roof system. Only a roof expert can recognize some of these roof damages. Intense and frequent freezing may cause ice damming and moisture intrusion in susceptible areas. Prolonged moisture exposure may cause deterioration and rust damage. Any roof deficiency can create subsequent damages to the property or personal belongings. In higher elevations in snowy climates,  some roofs are not built to handle the additional weight of the snow, further suppressing and weakening the structural integrity. Damaged framing can jeopardize the integrity of the overall roof system.

On the flip side, abnormal heat waves and constant high summer temperatures will shorten the lifespan of the roofing material. Depending on the roofing materials used, the type of red flag locations will vary. The damage may include cracking, discoloration, or deteriorated roof components.

Having the roof inspected annually by a licensed expert would help identify the roof’s red flags to include in your roof care plan. Remember that preventative roof repairs, when caught early, are far cheaper and faster to fix versus a reactive leak repair or roof replacement.

2. Heavy Wind-Driven Rains

Heavy rains, high-speed winds, and hailstorms are common throughout the US, with each climate having its characteristics. Constant moisture exposure with fluctuating temperatures can cause the roofing material to expand and contract, resulting in curling or buckled shingles, especially if the roof system is antiquated.

Hailstorms can also cause adverse damage to roofs, depending on the hail’s size, wind direction and speed, and the roof’s material, age, size, type, and slope. Some weather systems damage or even remove parts of the roofing material, usually affecting the structure’s perimeter. Additional damage can occur, including gutters, trim boards, siding, etc.

Heavy winds can exacerbate granular loss and promote moisture intrusion via wind-driven rain. 

Having a licensed professional inspect the roof once per year will help discover potentially dangerous damage caused by heavy winds or rains and fix them before they worsen. If the roof structure has been compromised, the roofing professional will advise a roof care plan with each written report to withstand the present and incoming heavy winds and downpours.

3. Intense Santa Ana Winds

The intense Santa Ana winds that rip through a few times each year can be a disaster for improperly maintained roof systems. The winds will deposit debris on the roof, which will impede proper water flow. A debris build-up will cause accelerated deterioration of the roofing material and ultimately cause moisture intrusion. 

During the annual roof inspection, the expert will identify all weak roof points caused by these winds and provide a plan to reinforce, repair, or replace them. A correctly performed inspection followed by a well-written report will identify any storm-created openings resulting from wind damage. 

4. Extra Hot and Dry Summers

The ultraviolet rays deplete the oils from the roof’s waterproof underlayment and other components. As a result, the material weakens, and problematic areas arise. 

Correct structure ventilation is essential to prolong the life of the roof system. Improper ventilation can lead to excessive expansion and contraction,  premature deterioration, and condensation build-up resulting in unsuspected organic growth. This fluctuation may hinder the integrity of the roof system. 

A licensed roofing expert will determine if the structures are correctly ventilated to keep the attic and structure cooler during the hotter seasons. 

5. The Roof is Out of Sight

Since most homeowners do not climb roofs to inspect, most roof problems remain out of sight. Property owners tend to pay attention to their roof systems after they become a noticeable issue from the inside. At that point, it is too late to prevent moisture intrusion, and a mitigation process ensues.  In addition, most hidden roof problems can only be diagnosed by a trained inspector who has experience in the roofing industry. For most homeowners, it’s hard to notice more minor deficiencies on a roof.

These are some reasons why an annual roof inspection by a licensed professional is essential to identify such roofing problems early before they may cause severe damage.

6. The Roof is Out of Mind

Homeowners usually are working towards achieving their daily and long-term goals, and the weather forecast is not something that is routinely checked. One of the last things that cross the mind of property owners might be their roof care plan. During extreme weather conditions, the weather may negatively affect the roof, and by the time they realize this, the interior components of the structure may already be compromised.

Third-party damage resulting from other home care professional services, toys, children, etc., will go unnoticed until it is too late. 

On the other hand, if the homeowners commit to having their roofs professionally inspected once per year, these problems can be identified and repaired proactively, ultimately saving their money for what it was intended. 

7. Improper Previous Roof Repairs 

Many homeowners settle for inexperienced individuals’ quick, cost-effective, band-aid repairs. Many homeowners don’t bother with a permanent remedy after a temporary solution. They don’t realize that sub-standard repairs are more expensive in the long run. Chasing leaks is always costly and frustrating.

Some homeowners contract the services from unlicensed or untrained laborers who do a shoddy repair job while using the wrong roofing materials.

A professional, licensed roof inspector will help pinpoint such mistakes and issues during the annual roof inspection. 

Conclusion

Though few homeowners may be able to spot some problems with their roof, others are only recognizable by an expert roof inspector. Also, most roof problems develop over time. Homeowners may not have the time or interest to check their roofs regularly throughout the year.

As a result, homeowners need to schedule their annual roof inspections to help uncover and rectify problems before they happen or become worse. NRCIA recommends that homeowners hire a licensed roof inspector to inspect, repair, and certify their roofs annually. An annual roof inspection can save their roof, time, and money.

Contact Cert-A-Roof, the NRCIA-Certified Roof inspector in Southern California, for an annual LeakFREE® Roof Inspection.

A roof is one of the most important parts of the home. It is the first line of defense against the elements. Roof systems need to be properly maintained to remain fully functional over their lifespan. There are a lot of things that go into managing a roof properly and it all depends on what stage the roof is in. 

Some homeowners choose to save money by skipping roof maintenance, but homeowners should not forget the level of stress and anxiety that comes from having a roof in disarray. The damage that a leaking roof can cause to the structure and safety of a home is immense. Moisture damage is one of the biggest fears of any homeowner as it weakens the home and can spur the growth of dangerous mold and bacteria.

There has also been an increase in roof repairs due to poor craftsmanship and roofing scams, which has led to an increased demand for roof warranties and certifications. That’s why it is important now more than ever for roof contractors and inspectors to be properly trained and certified. A certification backed by the NRCIA brings confidence to homeowners who request the services of these certified contractors. 

The integrity and credibility of the roofing industry are at the heart of the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association’s mission. Roofing services can be complex enough, even when done properly and the NRCIA is there to ensure that there’s a high level of professionalism and standardization within the roofing industry.

What Homeowners Need to Know

A homeowner needs to understand all components of their home. Homeowners need to understand the age of their roof and the maintenance schedule it follows. This is the best measure they can take to keep a roof system healthy and functional. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than reactive repairs.

Homeowners need to ensure that they partner up with the right roofing contractor. Preferably, a contractor that follows a standardized procedure to help clients maximize their roof system’s lifespan.

Maximizing a Roof’s Lifespan

A roof’s lifespan depends on the roofing material used. Composite, asphalt or wood shingles/shake can last between 12 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, with asphalt shingles able to last up to 30 years. Copper or Slate roofs can last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained, meaning all the homeowner should be concerned about is keeping it waterproof and free of leaks. There are additional factors that determine a roof’s lifespan: the product used, the quality of the installation, and maintaining a proper maintenance schedule. That’s why it’s critical to work with a roofing contractor certified by NRCIA who can provide the LeakFREE® guarantee. 

Additionally, more insurance companies are requesting these types of certifications and warranties before offering policies. Some insurance companies will even give homeowners a discount on their insurance premium if the homeowner’s roof has a LeakFREE® Roof Certification. Without certifications or warranties, loans and policies can be considered riskier which translates to higher premiums or higher mortgage rates.  

The NRCIA Guarantee

NRCIA wants to help take out the guesswork of choosing a good roofing inspector and/or contractor. Instead of going with a recommendation from a  friend or neighbor, trust a recommendation from the NRCIA whose sole purpose is to bring exceptional confidence and credibility to the roofing industry.

Homeowners can rest assured when they see the NRCIA Certified badge on their inspector’s shirt or business card. They will be working with roofing inspectors who know exactly what to look for when assessing the structure’s roof system.

Are you interested in becoming an NRCIA Inspector?

Do you need to find an NRCIA Inspector?

The NRCIA provides confidence for homeowners and property managers through our standards. NRCIA builds the integrity of the inspection industry by standardizing a roof inspection process that is both thorough and transparent.

Our name stands for excellence in property care by improving and standardizing roof inspections, maintenance, and certifications so that there is no unexpected loss of property due to normal wear and tear. 

NRCIA Inspectors

Our Inspectors provide world-class inspections and certifications on every roof. Each NRCIA Certified® Roof Inspector completes our thorough training regime to acquire the necessary knowledge and understanding of our inspection process.

Additionally, Certified® Roof Inspectors are held to NRCIA’s standards and values. They must serve their clients with honesty, transparency, and reliability. 

All of this is evident in each inspection and certification report you receive from an NRCIA Inspector. These reports are thorough, photo-centric, and transparent. Our Roof Inspectors aim to be educational consultants who help you find the best solution for your roofing needs.

NRCIA Inspections 

The NRCIA maximizes a roof’s serviceable life by using its proprietary five-zone inspection process to examine roof systems. Following the NRCIA roof inspection protocols, a trained NRCIA Certified® Roof Inspector begins the five-zone LeakFREE® roof inspection by examining the interior, accessible attic, and attached garage to find any visual evidence of a roof leak. Any evidence found in the first three zones informs the roof inspector of where to look more closely when they inspect the perimeter and rooftop.

In the fourth zone, the inspector examines the building’s perimeter to look for further evidence of leaks or damage, such as water stains and dry rot. After these observations are complete, the inspector moves to the roof and performs a visual, non-destructive examination. Each roof type and material has its common critical areas, and NRCIA roof specialists train to pay special attention to these potential trouble spots.

The roof system is the primary line of defense for a property. Without the integrity of a solid roof system, a structure is prone to health and safety concerns. It can sustain damages from storm-related loss, normal wear and tear, and other third-party-related issues. Just like a vehicle, your roof system requires continual maintenance and will require larger repairs as it gets older. So a question asked often is, how to know when a roof needs replacement or repair? 

The simple answer is to refer to an association like the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA) to schedule a visit with a certified roof inspector. They will perform a detailed inspection of the roof system, complete with a photo-centric report. In some cases, such as a storm-related loss, make sure the inspector is qualified for forensic inspections. 

In the meantime, here are some helpful tips to spot potential red flags in your roof system. These red flags will help indicate if the roof needs to be replaced or repaired.

Interior: moisture stains on ceilings or walls

Before, during, and after a rainstorm, perform a visual inspection of the ceilings and walls. Look inside closets and rooms that may not be visited often. It is helpful to identify if the material used is drywall or plaster because any damage will look different on each type of material. Moisture damage on drywall looks like yellow staining or delamination of the texture. Moisture damage on plaster is more difficult to see as staining is not typically the predominant clue. With plaster, moisture intrusion will cause cracks or efflorescence (white salt deposits). 

Various factors might produce discoloration or moisture damage on walls or ceilings, but it is usually a good indicator that there is a serious roof issue. An immediate inspection and repair job will help stop more damage from occurring.

Attic: water stains and presence of light

Most structures will have an attic space where the electrical, gas, water lines, and insulation are present. There typically is only one light in the attic, so a bright flashlight is needed. Start your inspection in the areas directly above any moisture stains you observed on the interior. You may see dark water stains that pronounce the grains in the wood. Those stains are a sign that there is possibly an active leak. 

Take a moment to turn off your flashlight, and you may even notice daylight coming through the roofing material. Any daylight is a red flag because there is a high likelihood of moisture intrusion and indicating the roof needs repairs as soon as possible.

Exterior: moisture damage 

Inspecting the perimeter of the structure helps identify moisture intrusion that is not visible inside the structure. The type of siding that the structure has will determine what to pay attention to. Discoloration of the siding material is a red flag that there is a roofing issue. Make sure to take a good look at the eaves for water streaks either on the shiplap or the backside of the fascia board. Keep in mind, being proactive is more cost-effective than being reactive when it comes to moisture intrusion.

If there are exterior signs of roof leaks, be sure to contact a certified roof inspector to provide a proper evaluation of the roof system. Providing proper maintenance to the roof system will prevent further moisture damage and increase its serviceable life. 

Damaged or missing roofing material

Any previous issues observed should be “up traced” to the location on top of the roof system. Only trained professionals should mount a roof. On top of the roof, there are obvious signs of defects like cracked shingles, broken tiles, or missing roofing material altogether. 

Another frequent red flag is any exposed mechanical fasteners such as staples or nails securing the roofing material. All mechanical fasteners should be covered and or sealed to prevent moisture intrusion. Widespread damage such as thermal cracking or granular loss indicates that the roofing material is at the end of its serviceable life. 

NRCIA inspectors can also perform a VisualROOF® inspection of the roof system after a large storm to inspect for damage. 

Damaged Flashings

One of the predominant maintenance issues that owners forget to perform is inspecting and repairing the flashing on the roof system. Flashings are present at roof penetration like skylights, exhaust vents, plumbing vents, chimneys, etc. Roof penetrations are highly susceptible to debris build-up and have a higher chance of allowing moisture intrusion. Proper roof maintenance includes regularly cleaning debris off the roof. This will help promote proper drainage. 

If debris remains present, it will act as a dam, impeding the proper water flow causing the rainwater to go in unnatural directions. The flashing (typically lead, galvanized, aluminum, etc…) protects the protruding components by directing water away from the penetration. The NRCIA recommends that all roof penetrations be re-sealed every two years as proactive maintenance will prolong the serviceable life of the roof system. The joint between the flashing and the roof penetration needs to be regularly sealed to ensure a LeakFREE® roof system. 

Unwanted Organic Growth

As the roof system ages, organic growth starts to develop on the roofing material. In the Northern Hemisphere, organic growth has a difficult time growing on south facets because it gets burned by the sun. A roof is most likely to grow algae on the northern facets of the building. Organic growth can cover the entire roof if the structure is surrounded by shade trees. Algae that grow in between the roofing material indicate a growing roof issue. 

Like debris, the presence of organic growth can impede proper drainage, which will result in moisture intrusion and potentially dry rot. In most cases, organic growth is an indication of old age but may have underlying causes too. 

Deteriorating Roofing material

Ultimately at some point, your roof system will age beyond cost-effective repair, and a complete roof replacement is needed. At this point, performing reactive repairs due to a leak is not cost-effective, because the roof has reached the end of its life expectancy. Homeowners may try to repair a roof that needs replacement. However, aged roof systems may not be in a repairable condition, and any attempt to repair them may cause more harm than help.

As a rule of thumb, a roof should be replaced every 25 years. Most roof systems will need to be either completely replaced or have a major overhaul performed. Knowing when your roof needs to be replaced also heavily depends on the roofing material used. For example, it is easy to observe deteriorated shingles. However, when it comes to a tile or metal roof, the moisture barrier is hidden and can only be assessed by a thorough evaluation of the overall roof system. 

A roof is a critical component of any structure. Rest easy and schedule an inspection with NRCIA, the industry leader in training and performing LeakFREE® Roof Inspections. Contact the NRCIA today

Article content provided by: bestaccessdoors.com

Tile roofing is expected to last an entire lifetime, but you may find yourself in need of a tile roof replacement or repair due to leaks caused by damaged flashing, sagging tiles, cracks, worn-out underlayment, or slipping. Repairing the issues as soon as you notice them is one way to avoid a full roof replacement, but this may be necessary in some cases. The damage will get worse and worse if you don’t address it, and this can drive your costs up very quickly too. You can help justify the cost of your tile roof replacement because it’s very durable and it offers excellent weather protection in almost every climate.

It has a very classic style to it that looks good with most homes, and there are different materials you can pick with different style effects that will impact your costs. If you want to have a tile roof replacement, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re getting into with this project before you start because it can quickly become very, very expensive. It’s also not a project you can do on your own, so you’ll have to factor in labor costs for a professional too.

The average tile roof replacement cost ranges from $8,000 to $23,000. If you’re going to repair an area instead, you’ll pay between $900 and $2,500. This works out to between $8.00 and $25.00 a square foot. You’ll pay an average of $2.00 to $10.00 a square foot for materials and $5.00 to $18.00 a square foot for labor. It’s also important that you factor in the costs to haul the old materials away, which types of tile you want to bring in, the roof style, and more.

If you’re considering a tile roof replacement, this is for you. We’re going to break down the cost factors associated with this project, and you can take them and see which ones are relevant to your situation. Once you get the square footage of your roof, you can get a healthy cost estimate for this project. Then, you can call local contractors and see which ones line up well with your budget. You’ll get a new tile roof that can withstand years of abuse without cracking, leaking, or having a lot of maintenance.

Costs for Different Tile Styles

One of the first things you’ll notice is that there are various tile styles available. Each style has a different cost, texture, and appearance to it that can make your tile roof replacement project more complicated. The style impacts how expensive it is with simple and flat styles costing less while Roman tiles cost more. The most popular styles are:

French

French tiles are also called Profile tiles, and they have indents instead of humps in the design that helps water runoff into your collection system. These tiles date back to 1850, and several French brothers created them. They’re extremely popular in Europe and France.

These are very tightly fitted tiles that are very durable, and you’ll need special roof caps and edge pieces to install them. You could run into problems with corrosion, underlayment issues, and cracked tiles down the road. A tile roof replacement using French-style tiles will cost between $9.00 to $11.00 per square foot.

Interlocking

These tiles connect via side joints that connect each tile on the roof. Interlocking tiles can be granular or smooth, and your contractor will lay them in a single lap to help enhance how strong your roof is. The interlocking design makes a tile roof replacement relatively easy and straightforward, and you get a very classic look. You can also find them in stone-coated metal.

It can be challenging to find this style in all materials, especially concrete. However, it’s easy to replace or repair these tiles if needed once you get them installed. You can use a mortar to disconnect them from the surrounding tiles and slide the new tiles back in before screwing them down. Your costs will range from $9.00 to $11.00 a square foot for interlocking tiles.

Mission

Mission tiles are also called Double Roman tiles, and they have a very obvious and distinct pattern to them. You’ll find these tiles widely used in the Mediterranean, and they give you a smaller water course look. You can use them as a ridge cap due to their size and shape. However, they are slightly more difficult to install, and this can increase your tile roof replacement costs.

You can use mortar or concrete to repair the damage when you see it, or you can use a crowbar to lift up any tiles that are too damaged to be fixed and replace it with new ones. Your prices will start at $8.50 per square foot and go up to $11.00 per square foot to replace them.

Pantile 

This is an S-shaped, single-lap, roof tile that gets made out of fired clay, and it looks like terracotta pots you use in container gardening. Single-lap designs have a bottom edge that will only overlap the row directly below it. In turn, you’ll get a rippling look, and it’s slightly lighter than other tile options. They come in many patterns and different styles to fit your home’s design aesthetic, but they have higher profiles that are more prone to damage because they’re fragile.

You use lime and mortar to fix any tiles, but don’t use cement as it has a negative effect since the tile is softer. You want to make sure your entire roof uses the same shape, color, and dimensions to allow them to link properly on your roof to create a seal. The tile roof replacement cost will range from $8.00 to $10.00 a square foot.

Plain

A plain or flat tiled roof is one of the most common styles installed in residential homes throughout the world. It has versatility coupled with a traditional look that makes it easy to install on different pitches and property styles. They also won’t trap rainwater since they have a flat design, and they’re also cost-effective and easy to install in a variety of patterns.

However, this type of tile isn’t as decorative as other picks on the list, but it’s a solid choice if you want to budget for your tile roof replacement project. You can easily use a crowbar to lift any heavily damaged tile and replace it too, and this can help with maintenance costs. You can expect to pay between $8.00 and $9.00 a square foot for plain tile.

Riviera

Riviera has a very similar look to the mission tile design, but it’s extremely intricate with a rigid feel and a semi-flat look. It’s a nice choice if you want to have a repeating design with a very dramatic pattern. It’ll create a symmetrical roof with deep shadows and classic lines, but it can be harder to find. Cracking and slipping are also common, so you’ll have more maintenance costs. The tile roof replacement cost per square foot for this option ranges from $9.00 to $11.00.

Roman

This tile will give you a very classic design that mimics Rome’s monumental buildings. They have flat pans and round caps, and you can have single or double curves that look like the Spanish S-shaped tile. There are different heights and curve styles available, but they’re fragile if you use a higher profile with them.

Once you get the tile in place, you can repair them as they crack using mortar or concrete. For a full tile roof replacement using this style, you’ll save on labor costs because it’s quick and easy. You can remove each tile using a crowbar and interlocking the new tile into place. There are also pre-drilled alignment marks on each tile, and you’ll pay between $9.00 and $12.00 a square foot.

Scandinavian 

These tiles come with a scalloped shape, but it curves downward rather than upwards. This lends a very European appearance to it, and you can find them in use throughout Europe. The unique design is a big draw for a lot of people. They do have a higher cost and they’re more difficult to source, and this is why the average tile roof replacement using Scandanavian-style tiles ranges from $12.00 to $14.00 a square foot.

Slate

This is a natural stone tile that has a beautiful and unique appearance to it. They have a very long lifespan, they’re environmentally-friendly, and they have fire-resistance. However, they are fragile and do weigh more than other types of tile, and installation can be challenging. It can be hard to source a contractor to install these tiles. However, they have low maintenance needs.

You will have trouble fixing these tiles if they break after your tile roof replacement. You’ll have to use a ripper to cut through the nails before replacing them. If you include the material, you’ll pay between $12.00 and $14.00 a square foot for this option.

Spanish

Mediterranean or Spanish tiles are very popular on homes in warmer climates, and you’ll get an S-shape with them. They give you a waved look, and it’s ideal for any planting zone that routinely gets heavy rainfalls. One tile will act like the lower and upper portion, and this can save you both labor and time when it comes to your tile roof replacement. They are more fragile because they come made out of clay.

If you notice any small cracks, you can use a membrane patch to fix them. You can also apply mortar to any cracked or broken areas when you notice them to seal it. You can replace them one at a time using a roof membrane to attach them. You’ll pay between $8.50 and $11.00 a square foot with this style.

Tile Roof Replacement Price by Material

The tile roof replacement cost will get heavily influenced by the material you pick out. The roofing material cost will vary according to your roof type. Some roof types need more materials and labor, especially if you have a steep pitch. The most budget-friendly option is concrete tiles, and composite or clay tiles fall in the middle of the price spectrum. The following outlines popular materials used in tile roof replacement projects and their associated costs per square feet.

Clay Tiles

You can get clay tiles in a large range of patterns, shapes, and colors, and the contractor will usually install them in an S-pattern that overlaps. You’ll often see these tiles in historic buildings because they have a wealth of color, longevity, and they look good for years. Since you can’t re-mount the tiles in the same way, the process can be more labor-intensive when it comes to tile roof replacement with clay. If you include labor and materials, you’ll pay between $9.00 to $21.00 a square foot.

Composite Tiles

Any composite tile is a mixture of several materials like asphalt, plastic, laminate, and wood. This combination gives you a long-lasting roof that will stay whole for 30 to 50 years. Even though they offer a higher level of durability, it is possible to damage them. Extreme weather can peel the tiles back or cause chips or cracking that can lead to leaks if you don’t fix them quickly. It’ll eventually lead to a full tile roof replacement if you’re not careful.

The contractor will have to use a crowbar and hammer to lift any shingles before removing them from the adhesive. If it’s just a minor crack, you can apply a layer of roofing sealant under the crack to seal it. You may need a caulking gun to apply a sealant to the corner of your shingles to prevent curling. Your tile roof replacement cost with composite tiles ranges from $10.00 to $21.00 a square foot. This includes both materials and labor.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete is a very cost-effective and popular choice when it comes to your tile roof replacement project. It also requires very little maintenance and offers good fire protection along with having a lifespan of 50 years. This is why it’s also a popular driveway material. They’re also lightweight, and this can help prevent structural issues.

Concrete tiles can slide out, crack, or show signs of general wear and tear after years though, so there is some maintenance required to keep your roof looking good. You’ll have to keep an eye out for any damage and fill any small holes or cracks with roofing cement. If you need to replace tiles, you can lift them with a crowbar and gently slide an undamaged tile in place. Your tile roof replacement project cost will range from $8.00 to $20.00 a square foot, including labor.

Metal Sheets

Metal offers you very little maintenance, high durability, energy-efficiency, easy installation, and longer warranties. However, repairs are more difficult in the event of damage since most metal roofs are sheets of metal that you have to replace all in one go. If you only have small holes, you can patch them relatively quickly to keep your labor costs low.

Metal is also a very stylish option that comes in several colors, and this is why it’s popular throughout the United States. It can handle a host of weather conditions without a problem, and your roof replacement cost will range from $9.00 to $23.00 a square foot. This is slightly higher, but it can also last much longer than other options.

Terracotta Tiles

The Greeks and Romans used terracotta tiles for thousands of years, and they use a natural clay material that they fire at a very high temperature until it fuses to form shingles. Terracotta tiles come with a very low maintenance need, and they can easily last up to 100 years or more. They’re fireproof, durable, environmentally-friendly, and they offer an attractive look to help boost your home’s curb appeal.

You will need to hire a professional when it comes to using terracotta tiles on your tile roof replacement project because they can be very difficult to install. Improper installation can cause damage due to freezing, rain, or severe weather. They use a vertical or horizontal overlap to stop water from leaking inside. The cost for this type of tile ranges from $11.00 to $23.00 a square foot, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option on the list.

Cost to Replace the Underlayment

When you perform a tile roof replacement, you’ll want to replace the underlayment at the same time. This is a waterproof and water-resistant barrier that the contractors will lay underneath the tiles to help seal the roof. This protects it from more severe weather. It’s a common practice to replace the old underlayment when you’re installing a new roof, especially if the roof itself is much older. This is very important because it can protect the house if the roof sustains damage from things like leaking or mold.

You can pick your underlayment from a few different options. Most contractors will include the cost of the underlayment in your tile roof replacement cost estimate. However, you do want to double-check. The most common types of underlayment include:

Felt Underlayment

Roofing felt is better known as asphalt-saturated felt. This is one of the first types of underlayment used, and it’s been used for decades. It works and looks just like traditional tar paper, but it has a combination of asphalt, bitumen, cellulose, and polyester that gets soaked in a waterproofing agent. You can choose from 15 or 30-pounds for the thicknesses. The thicker option is a good choice because it better resists damage from any outside elements.

This underlayment is a low-budget choice that is relatively easy to install with basic tools. It also gives you a very nice seepage barrier, and it’s flexible and easy to fix. It does have a slightly shorter lifespan to it when you compare it to other options, and the repairs may not look as aesthetically-pleasing. Including labor and materials, replacing this type of underlayment will add between $0.50 and $0.70 a square foot to your tile roof replacement cost.

Synthetic Underlayment

Many contractors use synthetic underlayment as their go-to product during tile roof replacement projects. It uses hard-wearing plastics in the makeup like polyethylene or polypropylene, and they saturate it in asphalt to make it even more durable. It will resist fungi and mold, and it has a high elasticity, durability, waterproofing rating to help safeguard your home. Additionally, it also holds up against UV damage and light without breaking down. It rarely tears around the fasteners, and it’ll stay smooth once you install it.

You will need caps and cap nails during the installation process instead of using common tools like roofing nails and staples. It may also not meet some building requirements since it’s not standardized and different manufacturers can make it however they like. This can impact your roofing warranty and leave some issues uncovered. To replace this type of underlayment, your tile roof replacement project will increase by $0.75 to $1.00 a square foot for labor and materials.

Labor Costs

You will want to hire a professional roofer to take on this project. On average, they’ll charge anywhere from $45.00 to $75.00 an hour for their work, and this will depend on your location. Your labor costs will go up if you have a slope on your roof that is steeper than average or if you have an unusual roof style because it’s more dangerous to work.

The roofer will have to perform a visual inspection of the roof to determine how much damage is around and whether or not you need a full tile roof replacement or just a partial one. They’ll discuss their findings with you and set up a plan. How large your roof is and the shape will directly influence your labor costs, and even the smallest project can take several days to finish.

The cost for a tile roof replacement varies, but you can expect to spend between $8,000 and $23,000. The labor will account for around 60% of the total costs, and the material will account for the final 40% of the project’s total. The costs work out to between $12.00 and $35.00 a square foot, and it includes removing your current roof, getting rid of it, and getting new underlayment and tile and installing it.

Maintaining Your Tile Roof

Your tile roof comes designed to last for  years, and it can withstand harsh weather conditions without a problem. However, you do want to work and maintain it. Make a point to occasionally inspect your tile roof following any major storms. Remove any debris you find during your inspection and check on the tile condition, sealant, and fasteners. If you see any damage, take steps to fix it as quickly as possible to reduce the chances of the problem getting worse.

If you notice mold, stains, or mildew forming, you should clean the tiles. You want to do this using a wire brush and a hand trowel. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, there are companies who will do it for you. Never pressure wash your tile roof because this can cause a lot of damage. You can take other steps to maintain your roof once you clean it like priming, buffing, painting, or resealing it.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How long does a tile roof last on average?

Depending on the type of tile you get, your roof can have a long lifespan. Some tiles will only last between 20 and 30 years, but other types of tile can last upwards of 70 to 100 years with proper maintenance.

2. How long does underlayment last?

If you get a high-quality underlayment and have it professionally installed, it can easily last for 25 years. However, each manufacturer has different standards for their underlayment, so some can last longer than others.

3. Is maintenance necessary for tile roofs?

Generally speaking, tile roofs need very little maintenance. However, performing routine maintenance can help your roof last years longer. You’ll want to inspect the roof after storms, remove debris, and fix any damage you see to the sealant, fasteners, and tiles as soon as you notice them. Also, make a point to remove any mildew, mold, or stains you see.

Bottom Line 

Your tile roof replacement cost will vary depending on a wide range of factors, and it’s very easy for this project to get expensive. We’ve outlined the biggest things you want to consider for this project, and you can take this quick guide to get a rough estimate before you call any local companies to get your tile roof replacement.

Originally posted at: https://happydiyhome.com/tile-roof-replacement/