(Newswire.net — October 9, 2019) — The beauty of tile roofs is that they require minimal maintenance. Tile is a popular roofing choice particularly because it’s pleasing to the eye, and also resistant to high winds, heavy rains and fire. While tile roofs cost a little more than traditional shingles, they make up for the extra cost in durability. A tile roof has a lifespan of 50 years or more. Nonetheless, all roofing systems need maintenance. Here are a few tile roof maintenance tips to bear in mind.
Tile Roof Maintenance Tips
This post highlights some roof maintenance tips to ensure your tile roof is in optimum condition. It points out the significance of cleaning, repairing, getting rid of debris and scheduling regular roof inspections.
Inspections
Tile roofs have a long useful life but they still have to be inspected occasionally. Roofing mistakes can leave your roof more likely to need repairs later on. Look for chipped or cracked tiles and replace damaged sections immediately. A general rule of thumb is to schedule inspections for the fall of each year. A professional roofer is trained to see even the most minor chips, cracks and bruises that may worsen in inclement weather.
Cleaning
Concrete or clay tiles can become host to algae, which can compromise the aesthetic as well as the structural integrity of your roof. Use a low-pressure power washer to get rid of algae from your roof before it stays for too long and discolors your roof. However, the pressure of a power washer could crack the tiles so avoiding aiming it directly at the tiles. All you need is a touch of mild dish detergent and an indirect spray of warm water.
Debris
Remove debris from your gutters and tile roof regularly. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow into your roof causing the accumulation of water and leakages. Get rid of leaves, moss and other debris from your roof. You can also use a ladder to safely trim tree branches hanging over your roof. You want to avoid stepping on the tiles themselves, as you may contribute to cracking and breakage. Seek professional help if you cannot access the roof safely from the side.
Repair
While you don’t have to check on your roof all the time, it’s crucial that you repair or replace all missing or broken tiles and flashing immediately to prevent any water damage inside your property. The good thing about a tile roof is that they can be repaired per section; you can fix or replace a damaged portion of the roof without having to replace the entire roof. Broken tiles can compromise the roof’s ability to withstand exposure to sun and rain. Making minor repairs when needed can also help you to avoid major repair projects or expensive roof replacements in the future.
Bottom Line
With these tile roof maintenance tips, you can avoid major damage to your roof. Caring for your roof will save you loads of cash that you would have otherwise spent on costly repairs. Be sure to schedule a regular inspection of your roof as that’s a sure way to keep your roof in tip-top shape.