Typically, a tile roof has a life expectancy of up to 50 years. While that’s the average lifespan, there are tile roofs that have lasted for centuries! Proper maintenance plays a huge role in how long a tile roof will last before it needs to be replaced. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your tile roof.
1. Get Your Roof Inspected Regularly
Roof inspections play an important role in roof maintenance. This is because it’s during an inspection that roof damage may be discovered. It’s easier and less expensive to repair damage when it’s minor. It’s also a good idea to have your roof inspected professionally rather than trying to do it yourself. This is because a professional will have a better idea of what to look for.
How Often Does a Tile Roof Need to Be Inspected?
A tile roof typically only needs to be inspected professionally once every three years. However, if there’s recently been bad weather, like a hurricane, then it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected afterward just to make sure that the storm didn’t harm your roof in any way.
2. Keep Your Roof Clean
Another part of regular maintenance is to make sure that you’re keeping your roof clean. If you don’t clean your roof, then algae can start to build up on the tiles. In addition to just looking bad, algae can absorb moisture and heat, as well as provide a foothold for other organisms like mold and bacteria to grow. The heat absorption could increase your energy bills.
How Do You Clean a Tile Roof?
Use a pressure washer to blast algae and other dirt off of your roof. Make sure to not use too high of a setting and to hold the sprayer at a distance from your roof, however, or you could damage your tiles. Additionally, make sure that you’re using a soft wash cleaning solution. This is because harsh chemicals could corrode your tiles.
3. Trim Back Your Trees
If you have trees that are growing close to your house, you’ll want to make sure that they’re kept well-trimmed. This is because if the trees have branches that overhang your roof, there’s a chance they’ll drop more than just leaves and twigs onto your roof. In bad weather with strong winds, like during a hurricane, entire branches could be blown onto your roof, which could damage the tiles.
How Often Should You Trim Your Trees?
Typically, you’ll need to trim your trees every 3-5 years if they’re mature or every 1-5 years if they’re young. However, you should inspect your trees every year to make sure that no branches are hanging over your roof.
4. Don’t Wait to Make Repairs
Repairing your roof can cost money. However, if you wait to make a needed repair, the damage could get worse, which would cost even more to fix. On top of that, if the damage is bad enough that water can get into your house, which is even more expensive to repair. Plus, you could use priceless possessions that have sentimental value. It’s best to get repairs done as quickly as possible while they’re still minor so you can prevent further damage.
