How To Fix Tile Roof Cracks

Tile roofs are one of the best roofing systems that you can consider for your Florida home. They offer advantages such as a long lifespan, fire resistance, and exceptional curb appeal. However, like all other roofing materials, tiles are also not indestructible. As a tile roof owner, you know that they can crack or break and will need regular maintenance.

Ignoring or delaying their repair can lead to costly repairs or even the need for a complete roof replacement later on. Additionally, a damaged roof can also lower the energy efficiency of a building, which increases heating and cooling costs. 

To avoid these circumstances, it is important to repair your tile roof. This blog will discuss tile roof repair so that you can make a decision about how to fix a crack in your tile roof. 

What Are Tile Roof Cracks?

Tile roof cracks are breaks or fissures in the tiles of a roof. These can occur due to a variety of factors such as weather, age, or improper installation. These cracks can weaken the roof’s structural integrity and allow water to seep through, causing damage to the interior of the building. It is essential to fix tile roof cracks as soon as they are noticed to prevent further damage and ensure the roof’s longevity.

What Causes A Tile Roof To Crack?

Cracking is one of the most common issues that your tile roof will face in its lifetime. But what causes these cracks that reduce the integrity of a roof? There are certain factors responsible for tile roof cracks. Some of them are given below: 

Weather Conditions

Flordia witnesses extreme weather conditions during the year, such as high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and high windstorms. All these conditions cause tile roof cracks. Temperature changes cause the tiles to contract and expand, leading to cracks, and high winds can cause tiles to shift and break. Once these tiles are misplaced it won’t take heavy rainfall to cause water to seep through the cracks and weaken the roof’s structure.

Age Of Tile Roof

Over time, tile roofs can deteriorate and become more susceptible to cracking. The natural aging process of the tiles, combined with the elements, can cause the tiles to crack or break, sometimes earlier than expected. 

Lack Of Regular Maintenance

As we have already mentioned above, regular roof maintenance is still essential no matter how strong your roofing material is, especially in states such as Florida that face extreme weather. If you do not perform regular inspections and cleaning, it can cause mold and other elements to build up on the roof, which deteriorates the tile material and makes the more vulnerable to cracking. 

Preparing The Area

Before we discuss how to fix tile roof cracks, you need to first prepare. Preparing for a tile roof repair includes gathering the necessary tools and materials and taking safety precautions.

Tools Required

Repairing a tile roof will require some specific tools. Before moving ahead with your repair project, it is vital to have the right tools handy for the job. Here are the tools and equipment that you’ll need: 

• Stiff-bristled brush
• Water and mild detergent
• Bucket
• Putty knife or trowel
• Tile patching compound

Additionally, you may also need a hammer, chisel, and roofing nails if the cracked tile needs to be replaced. It’s also crucial to have safety equipment since working on a roof can be dangerous.

Safety Equipment

Ensure you have the appropriate safety equipment, such as a harness, helmet, and slip-resistant shoes. A roof can be a dangerous place to work, so it’s important to take the necessary safety precautions.

Weather Conditions

Check the weather forecast to ensure the conditions are suitable for the repair. Some types of patching compounds and sealants require dry and warm weather conditions to adhere to the material properly.

Steps To Fix Tile Roof Cracks

Now that you understand what causes tile roofs to crack and how you can identify it, let us move to the core of our article. In this section, we will describe some steps you can take to fix the cracks in your roof tiles, and improve the lifespan of your roofing system. 

Clean The Area

Before repairing the tile, it is important to clean the area thoroughly. Remove any debris, moss, or dirt from the tile and the surrounding area. Doing this will help create a surface where you can work efficiently.

Use a stiff-bristled brush, a solution of water, and mild detergent to clean the tile. Rinse the tile with clean water and allow it to dry completely. Avoid using a pressure washer as it could potentially damage the tiles.  

Repair The Tile Roof Underlayment

If you are noticing water damage in your home, and there are cracks in your tile roof, that means the underlayment below the cracked tiles is most likely damaged as well. Patch the section of underlayment under the cracked tile to prevent further water from seeping underneath.

It’s important to note that you should use the same type of underlayment that is currently on your roofing system. For most tile roofs, the underlayment is made out of felt material. 

Seal The Cracks 

After you patch the underlayment, the next step is to properly seal the cracks in the tile. 

Use a tile sealant to seal the crack and protect the tile from future damage. Apply the compound with a putty knife or trowel, making sure to completely fill the gap or cracks in the tile roof. Allow the sealant to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It’s important to use a high-quality tile sealant that is specifically designed for use on roof tiles. Make sure that the sealant is compatible with the type of tile you are working with to get the best results. For example, there are specific sealants available that are only suitable for clay tiles. 

It’s important to note that the sealant is not a permanent fix, it’s just there to protect the underlayment and the tile from water and other elements. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the roof in good condition.

Level The Area

Sanding the area after the patch has dried is an important step to ensure that the repair is smooth and level with the surrounding tiles. Fine-grit sandpaper will smooth out any rough edges or bumps in the patch, creating a seamless repair.

Maintainance 

Last but not least is the aspect of maintaining your roof after repair. Regular maintenance is necessary in keeping your tile roof in good condition. This includes the following activities: 

•  Regular inspections at least twice a year (preferably from a professional)
• Cleaning the roof
• Fixing any cracks or damage as soon as they are noticed.

Also, hiring a professional roofing contractor to inspect and maintain your roof regularly can ensure that any potential problems are identified and repaired before they become more serious.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair Tile Roof Cracks?

The average cost of tile roof repair can be in the range of $300-$1,200. Repairing cracks in a tile roof can cost you around $25-$45 per tile. If you want to know more about how much different types of tile roof repairs can cost you then visit our blog titled, How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Tile Roof?

Trust Us With Roof Repair Services In Florida

Tile roof repair is not as easy as it seems. If you are not familiar with roofing and its techniques, then there is a chance that the tile roof cracks will worsen. We recommend hiring a professional roofing contractor such as the SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors team to avoid these mishaps. 
We offer the best roof repair services in Tampa and surrounding areas. We have years of experience in the industry and use high-quality equipment that helps improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our work. We also provide tile roof installation and repair services in the area. Contact us at (813) 400-3329 to learn more!