• By Liam Ridings
• In Blog, Metal Roofing, Renovation

5 Signs That Your Tile Roof Needs Replacing

Just like anything, prevention is always better (and more cost-effective) than a cure, which is why it is important to understand the signs and symptoms that your tile roof needs replacing.

Whether you need to replace a few tiles to keep things in shape, or it’s time for a complete overhaul, it’s important to know when it’s time to make those renovations and get a professional roofer to take a look at your tile roof.

In this article, we’ll take a look at 5 common signs that your tile roof needs replacing and provide actionable tips to extend the life of your tile roof.

What is the average life of a roof tile?

 Before we jump into the signs that you need to replace your tile roof, it’s important to understand the average life span of a tile roof in Australia. In general, a well-maintained tile roof can last from anywhere between 30 to 40 years – but this will depend on a number of key factors, including:

⊛ Roof maintenance
⊛ Quality of tiles used
⊛ Quality of workmanship
⊛ The climate in which you live
⊛ Materials used during roofing

Before you move into a home, it’s a good idea to have your tile roof inspected by a professional roofer who can provide you with a run-down of your current roof condition and any recommendations.

5 Signs That Your Tile Roof Needs Replacing

1. Your roof is older than 20 years

As your tile roof ages, it becomes susceptible to damage from severe weather or just natural degradation. The Sydney floods of 2022 have caught a lot of tile roof owners off guard and left many homeowners out of pocket for repairs that could have been prevented. So, if your roof is more than 20 years old, it’s important to have it regularly inspected.

Tile roofs are generally very durable, but they can be damaged by high winds, falling tree limbs, or other debris. Over time, the ceramic coating on tiles can also break down, leaving them vulnerable to water damage. If any of these issues are discovered during an inspection, it’s important to take action right away to prevent further damage.

Prevention is always better than a cure. Having your tile roof inspected at regular intervals by roof tiling specialists can help to eliminate costly surprises.

2. You can see visible damage, such as cracks or missing tiles

If you see visible damage to your roof, such as cracks or missing tiles, then it might be time to call a professional. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need a full roof replacement or a simple fix to a few tiles. When caught early, tile roof repairs can often be made before extensive damage occurs.

Remember, not all damage is visible from street-level, which is why having a professional inspect your roof is so important.

3. Your energy bills have increased significantly

One of the most common ways that homeowners can tell that their tile roof needs maintenance or replacing is an increase in energy bills. If you’ve noticed an increase to your heating (winter) or cooling (summer) bills throughout the year, then it could be a sign that your roof is letting you down.

If you believe that your tile roof may be the culprit, then you need to have it inspected as soon as possible by a professional. Gaps, missing or cracked tiles, or structural damage can wreak havoc on your energy consumption.

4. Water damage in your home

Water damage in your home can be a serious, costly problem. Tile roofs are durable, look great, and can last for many years – but they can also be susceptible to damage and leaking. If you have water damage on your roof, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. Preventative roof maintenance can help to spot these issues before they result in a leak, so remember to get regular roofing inspections throughout the year.

As many Sydneysiders found out in the first half of 2022, leaking roofs may not expose themselves until heavy rainfall.

5. There is mould or mildew on your roof tiles

If you notice mould or mildew on tile roof, then you need to take it seriously. Mould and mildew may look charming on the tile roof of a Victorian cottage, but it’s far more sinister than that. Once they set in, mould and mildew are pervasive and can cause damage to roof tiles which can lead to leaks. In addition to roof damage, mould can also lead to health complications for those living in the home. If you notice mould on your roof tiles, then you need to take action swiftly.

Final thoughts

Your tile roof is one of the most important elements of the home. A healthy roof keeps your family and your possessions safe in all weather conditions. It’s important to conduct regular, preventative maintenance with a roofing company that can help to identify problems before they become major issues.