How Long Does a Tile Roof Last in Arizona?
I’m Brian Stradling, owner of Stradling Roofing, a local roofing contractor in the Phoenix area. People ask me this question a lot, and the answer is it depends on the quality of the tile.A question people ask me a lot is how long a tile roof will last in Arizona, and the answer is it depends on the quality of the tile.The honest answer would surprise alot of people. In this article I will tell you how tile roofs actually last in this area, what takes them out, and what you can do to get more life out of your roof. My specialty is tile roofs and I have worked on tile roofs throughout Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler and Scottsdale for years.
In Arizona, how many years does a tile roof last?
Tiles on an Arizona roof can last a lifetime or more, but the underlayment under the tiles will typically last for a shorter period of time in the desert heat. This underlayment typically determines when tile roof repairs or replacements need to take place. A tile roof is a roofing system. The tiles prevent the sun from hitting the water, and they keep the majority of the water from falling off. We call the waterproof layer underneath the underlayment, and it helps keep water out of your home. Leaks begin when it dries out, cracks or tears even if the tiles on top appear intact. This is the reason why many roofs can leak years before the roof tiles have worn out. The tiles had served their purpose. Below them, the layer was unable to cope with the heat.
Brian’s quick take
On tile roofs, the tile is just a component of the roof. In Arizona, it is important that homeowners watch the age of the underlayment, rather than the tile. When you notice the roof tiles are starting to get quite old and you start to notice some leaking or staining, it is possible to take them off, replace the underlayment and put them back on with the good ones. This will only make sense if your roof in good shape, but it won’t if it is not.
Does concrete tile or clay tile last longer?
Clay tile typically lasts longer than concrete tile, but either one can outlast the underlayment we install beneath it by many years. Manufacturers bake clay tiles in a kiln, so they resist fading and weathering very well. Clay tile roof life expectancy is one of the longest of any roofing material. Around Phoenix and the East Valley, a newer home will more often be a concrete tile roof. While concrete tile is strong and economical, it may absorb more water and tend to lose surface finish over time. Both types can crack if someone walks on them the wrong way or if flying debris hits them. Clay vs. concrete is the smaller of the problems for most homeowners. It’s the age of the underlayment!
What reduces the life of a tile roof in Arizona?
The most significant factors that can reduce the lifespan of tile roofs in Phoenix and throughout Arizona are sun exposure, monsoon storms, foot traffic, and improper installation. The sun and heat: Arizona is a place where the sun can make all the difference in roofing. The surface of the roofs become very warm; this heat slowly makes the underlayment brittle. Slopes facing south and west generally are the first to deteriorate. Monsoon storms: It is possible for strong winds to lift or break tiles. Heavy rain can push water into low areas, and wind can blow debris off nearby structures and into valleys. Foot traffic: When people walk on the wrong tiles, it will crack. This is typically the case when working with solar, HVAC, or satellite. The sun and water penetrate through a crack in the tile to the underlayment. Leaky installation: Even a newer roof can leak and wear due to poor installation, such as improperly installed flashing, absence of bird stops, and a poorly constructed valley.
When should you replace a tile roof’s underlayment?
If you are experiencing tile roof leakage frequently, water stains on your ceilings, or a tile roof inspection reveals brittle, cracked or torn underlayment, then it’s time to plan for replacing the roof’s underlayment. Age matters too.If your tile roof has been in place for a number of years and no one has replaced the underlayment, it’s worth having a look. We inspect under the tiles for leaks, particularly around valleys, low-sloped areas, and penetrations.This is typically where the wear will be first. If you leave a small leak untreated, it can quickly grow into a major issue. Water can cause roof damage to decking, insulation and drywall long before you notice the stain.
What are some ways that maintenance can help extend the life of a tile roof?
By performing routine maintenance and taking the effort to inspect your roof regularly, you can extend the life of your tile roof by preventing water from getting under the tiles and causing damage.
Here’s what I recommend:
Replace broken (cracked) tiles promptly. Do not let debris accumulate in valleys, gutters and drains. Get your roof inspected following large monsoon storms. Reduce pedestrian access to the roof. When hiring a roofing company, have experience in tile roof repair in Phoenix. What to look out for during a Stradling Roofing inspection? Be ready for an in-depth, thorough examination of your entire roof system and a clear answer to what your roof requires. Inspection of tile, underlayment, valleys, flashing, bird stops, penetrations and drainage. Sun damage and storm wear are areas we take a close look at with Phoenix weather because every one of those areas are hard on the weather. Thereafter, I tell you what we discovered and your choices make it a small repair or maintenance, replacing the underlayment or installing a new roof. We prefer to tell you the truth at Stradling Roofing, instead of selling you roofing that you don’t need.
So, what do Phoenix homeowners need to know before they hire a Roofing Contractor?
The ideal Phoenix roofing company will have the proper licensing and insurance, experience in Arizona tile roofing, and written estimates. Check on the licensure and insurance status of anyone before hiring. Inquire about their materials and methods of work. Inquire and receive warranty answers in writing. Take note of their ability to communicate. Beware of anyone who is pressuring you to sign immediately.
Why the choice for Brian Stradling and Stradling Roofing?
Stradling Roofing is a locally owned company with a years-long hands-on experience of working on roofs throughout the Phoenix area. My father was a tradesman and I embraced the same path of hard work, excellent craftsmanship and sincere recommendations when I was his son. We are in the Phoenix area for over 12 years. Our specialty is tile roofing and we also specialize in commercial roofing, roof coatings, flat roofs and roof maintenance. From repairs to replacements, we’re committed to doing it right.
Why choose Brian Stradling and Stradling Roofing?
I grew up working in the trades alongside my father, and I built Stradling Roofing on hard work, quality craftsmanship, and honest recommendations. We’re a locally owned company with more than 12 years serving the Phoenix area.
We handle residential and commercial roofing, with deep experience in tile roofs, roof repairs, flat roofs, foam roofing, silicone coatings, TPO, and shingles. At Stradling Roofing, we would rather give you a straight answer than sell you work you do not need.
Frequently Asked Questions
When replacing the underlayment, can I use the same underlayment and keep my existing tiles?
In many cases, yes. With good tiles, often re-laying over new underlayment is possible. Plans for some replacements should be made as some tiles may break during removal.
How often should I have my tile roof inspected in Phoenix?
It is recommended that most homeowners’ tile roofs be inspected on a regular basis as well as following major storms. It is important if the roof has previously leaked or is a very old roof.
Does it matter if 1 tile is cracked?
It can be. Ongoing exposure to sun and water causes wear from a cracked tile. If it’s caught early, it’s typically something that can be easily resolved.
Are there risks of damage to a tile roof from monsoon storms?
Yes. Heavy rains might hit weak points, monsoon winds can lift or break tiles. After a major storm, it is a good idea to get your roof inspected.
When should I replace my tile roof?
The most common signs are repeated leaks, extensive wear of underlayment or lots of cracked tiles. Inspection assists in determining repair and/or replacement.
Looking to get a roof inspection scheduled?
If you have ever asked yourself what the life span of a tile roof is in Arizona and if yours is coming to the end of its life, I’m happy to help answer your questions. Stradling Roofing provides services to property owners and homeowners in East Valley Phoenix, including all cities of Phoenix Metro Area: Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley. Contact us to schedule an inspection of your roof, roof repair estimate or roofing consultation. We’ll look at it and let you know what your roof needs.