Maintaining A Concrete Tile Roof: What You Need To Know
While perhaps not as commonplace as asphalt shingle roofing, concrete tile roofing is still a relatively popular option among homeowners. Not only are concrete tiles aesthetically pleasing, but they're also durable enough to withstand high winds, storms, and other forces of nature. In fact, a properly maintained concrete tile roof can last 50-100 years before needing to be replaced.
So, what can you do to prolong the life of your concrete tile roof? While these roofing systems don't require a lot of maintenance, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Pressure Wash as Needed
Algae, mildew, and mold growth are a few of the biggest enemies of a concrete tile roof. Over time, even small areas of standing water or moisture can become prone to these growths—and once they're established, they can be very difficult to get rid of.
Fortunately, keeping your concrete tile roof clear of mildew/mold and algae is as easy as having it power washed to remove loose debris and grime. Just be sure to hire a professional for this service, as rooftop power washing can be dangerous without the proper experience and/or equipment.
Don't Overlook Gutters
Your home's gutters are another important part of your concrete tile roofing system. Unfortunately, when gutters are neglected, they can become clogged and have a hard time carrying water safely away from the roofing tiles themselves. This, in turn, may increase the risk of standing water, mildew, mold, and even roof rot.
To keep water properly draining away from your roof, be sure to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned as needed. This may be anywhere from once a year to several times a year, depending on how much debris accumulates.
Repair or Replace Cracked Tiles
While concrete roofing tiles are quite durable, they can suffer from cracks, chips, and other damage over time. This damage is more than just cosmetic, as even a small crack could allow moisture to penetrate your roof. With this in mind, it's important to replace damaged tiles as soon as you discover them. Many homeowners with concrete tile roofs will keep a spare box of roofing tiles in their garages or sheds to ensure an exact match when the time for replacement comes.
With the right care, your concrete tile roof should last you for many years to come. And when repairs do need to be made, having a roofing company you can trust makes all the difference. Contact a roofing company to learn more about concrete tile roofing.