Tile is the most common roof in San Tan Valley, and for good reason. Concrete and clay tiles handle Arizona sun well and can last for decades. But tiles crack, slip and break, and when they do, the layer beneath is exposed. If you have broken tiles, a leak or storm damage on a tile roof, call or text (602) 339-9540.
Signs your tile roof needs repair
- Cracked, chipped or broken tiles, often after someone has walked on the roof
- Tiles that have slipped down out of line, leaving a gap
- Missing tiles or loose ridge and hip caps after wind
- Tile pieces in the yard or gutters
- A ceiling stain or leak, especially after a heavy storm
- Mortar at the ridge or edges that is cracked or crumbling
How a tile roof really keeps water out
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that tiles are not the waterproof layer. Tiles shed most of the rain and protect what is underneath from sun, but the underlayment beneath the tiles is what actually keeps water out of the home. Water that gets past the tiles runs down the underlayment and out at the eaves.
That is why tile roof repair is about more than swapping a broken tile. A good repair checks the underlayment and flashing in the area, because a cracked tile may have left the underlayment exposed to UV for months.
Common tile roof repairs
Replacing broken tiles
The roofer removes broken tiles and installs replacements matched in profile (flat, S-tile, low-profile) and color as closely as possible. Many San Tan Valley homes use concrete tile lines from major manufacturers, and close matches are usually available. For older or discontinued tiles, salvaged tiles or a careful color match may be needed.
Resetting slipped tiles
Tiles slip when fasteners fail or when the batten or underlayment beneath deteriorates. The roofer resets and refastens them, and checks why they moved.
Ridge, hip and rake repairs
Caps along the ridge and hips are often set in mortar or attached with clips. Wind and age loosen them. Repairs re-bed or refasten the caps and seal the joints.
Flashing and penetration repairs
Valleys, skylights, chimneys, plumbing vents and wall transitions all use metal flashing. Rusted, lifted or poorly lapped flashing is a common source of leaks on tile roofs.
Localized underlayment repair
When the underlayment has failed in one area, such as a valley or around a vent, the roofer lifts the tiles there, replaces the underlayment, and relays the tiles. When it has failed across the roof, an underlayment replacement is usually the better value.
Why you should not walk on your tile roof
Concrete tile can crack under a person's weight, especially in the middle of the tile. Many broken tiles we repair were caused by well-meaning foot traffic: homeowners, solar and satellite installers, and holiday-light hangers. Roofers know where to step, typically at the lower edge where tiles overlap and are supported. If you need to see the roof, use binoculars or a phone zoom from the ground.
Concrete vs. clay tile
| Concrete tile | Clay tile | |
|---|---|---|
| How common in San Tan Valley | Most common | Less common, often on custom homes |
| Weight | Heavy | Usually somewhat lighter |
| Color | Painted or color-through; can fade | Fired color; holds color well |
| Repair notes | Matches widely available | Matching color can take more effort |
Either way, the underlayment beneath is what wears out first.
Tile roofs and HOAs
Most San Tan Valley HOAs specify approved tile colors and profiles. Repairs with matching tile normally do not need approval, but a re-roof or a color change often does. The roofer can provide product details for your HOA application.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a tile roof last in Arizona?
The tiles themselves can last 50 years or more. The underlayment beneath them is the weak link. Arizona roofers commonly cite roughly 8 to 20 years depending on the material and exposure. Most tile roof "replacements" are really underlayment replacements that reuse the tiles.
Can you match my existing tiles?
Usually, yes. Many homes in the area use widely available concrete tile lines. For discontinued tiles, we look for salvaged matches or the closest available color and profile.
Is a cracked tile an emergency?
One cracked tile is not usually an emergency, but it should be replaced before the next storm. A cracked tile exposes the underlayment beneath to sun and rain.
Why did my tiles break after solar was installed?
Foot traffic during installation is a common cause of cracked tiles. It is worth having the roof checked after any work that involved walking on it.