Tile roofs are known for their resilience against natural elements and ability to hold up against the tough winds and rains Florida summers are known to bring. Most tile roofs have a 40-year life expectancy and with the proper care, can even last up to 75 years! However, tile roofs can become susceptible to loosening, cracking, and other types of damage if they aren’t properly maintained as they start to get old. Continue reading to learn some of the most common reasons for tile roof damage.
Walking on the Roof
Walking on top of your roof can cause damage to tiles and lead to injury, and for these reasons it’s something we don’t recommend doing. You might get on top of their roof to hang holiday decorations, but to avoid damage this can instead be done using a long pole. If you do find yourself in a situation where you absolutely need to get on the roof, be sure to distribute your weight evenly, walk on the balls of your feet and walk very slow to avoid cracking any tiles.
Harsh Elements
While tile roofs can handle the rain and wind quite well, harsher weather like hurricanes and hail can cause damage. Most clay and concrete tiles are tested to meet wind speeds of up to 150 MPH – meaning they can handle most hurricanes. If a category 5 hurricane hits your Florida home however, wind speeds can pick up to over 150 MPH, potentially causing damage to tiles. While we don’t typically get hail in Florida, tile roofs can handle damage from hailstones of up to 2-inches in size on the off chance it does happen.
Clogged Gutters
Forgetting to clean your gutters may seem harmless, but neglecting them for too long can cause damage to your roof. When gutters become clogged, it can make it hard for rainwater to drain and cause pooling on your roof – leading to leaks and cracks. Be sure to clean your gutters seasonally to keep the rain water flowing!
So, how long do tile roofs last in Florida? Even after damage from one of the above, quick repair will help your tile roof last for up to 40 years or more. Don’t hesitate to contact a roof repair company if you notice the signs of damage. Take care of necessary repairs now, rather than later to prevent your roof from further damage and the need for a new roof. If damaged tiles are plaguing your home, trust the experts at Westfall Roofing to restore your roof.
Since 1989, Westfall Roofing has covered the residents of Tampa and Sarasota like family. We treat every roof repair with the utmost integrity and care, to provide value to your home that will last for years to come. Contact Westfall Roofing for your roof replacement and repair needs today.
