Tile Roof Repair Specialists in Palm Beach County - Clay & Concrete Tile Experts Since 1974

Clay and concrete tiles themselves last 40-50+ years in Florida climate—many historic clay tile roofs from the 1920s-1940s remain functional today. However, underlayment beneath tiles deteriorates much faster: traditional felt paper lasts 15-20 years, modern synthetic underlayment lasts 25-30 years. This creates a common scenario where 25-year-old tile roofs have perfectly good tiles sitting on failed underlayment. Valley metal lasts 20-30 years (less in coastal salt air exposure). Fasteners corrode over 20-30 years depending on material type and coastal exposure. The key to maximizing tile roof lifespan is replacing underlayment, valleys, and flashings as they fail while preserving the expensive tile investment. With proper maintenance including periodic inspections and timely repairs, tile roofs can provide 50+ years of service—far exceeding shingle roofs' 20-25 year lifespan.

Yes, we can match most tile profiles installed in Palm Beach County through our extensive sourcing network. For common current tiles from major manufacturers (Eagle, Boral, Hanson), we typically source matches within days. For discontinued profiles (manufacturers discontinue product lines every 10-15 years), we work with architectural salvage suppliers nationwide specializing in historic roofing materials—lead time is 3-6 weeks. For rare or custom tiles on historic properties, we can commission custom reproductions from specialty manufacturers—this requires 8-12 weeks and minimum order quantities apply. When exact matches aren't available or cost-prohibitive, we strategically place similar tiles on less-visible roof planes (back slopes, sides) and reserve closest matches for prominent front-facing elevations. Color variations between old weathered tiles and new replacements typically blend within 1-2 years of weathering.

Most tile roofs should be repaired rather than replaced. Repair/rebuild when: Tiles are structurally sound (not cracked throughout or crumbling), roof decking is solid without widespread rot or sagging, underlayment has failed but tiles remain functional (most common scenario), valleys or flashings need replacement, or less than 40% of roof area has significant issues. Repair costs $4,500-$28,000 depending on scope—dramatically less than replacement. Replace when: Tiles are structurally compromised throughout showing extensive cracking or concrete deterioration, roof deck requires extensive reconstruction due to water damage, structural issues require complete roof system removal, you're converting to different roofing material, or building code changes mandate complete system upgrade. Our free inspection provides honest assessment—we don't push replacement when repair makes economic sense.

Tile roof leaks in Palm Beach County most commonly result from: Underlayment deterioration beneath tiles (the #1 cause)—Florida's heat, UV exposure, and moisture cycling degrades underlayment in 15-20 years while tiles remain functional. Valley failures including corroded metal liners (especially in coastal salt air) and improper valley flashing details. Flashing separations at walls, chimneys, and penetrations where sealants fail from UV exposure and thermal cycling. Broken or displaced tiles allowing direct water entry—individual damaged tiles don't immediately cause leaks (underlayment provides backup) but accelerate overall roof deterioration. Ridge cap deterioration where mortar fails or mechanical fasteners corrode. Hurricane damage including tile displacement, fastener failure, and impact from wind-borne debris. Our thermal imaging inspections pinpoint exact leak sources even when water travels horizontally before appearing inside—critical for effective repairs rather than guesswork.

Yes, tile roofs benefit from specific maintenance extending lifespan and preventing expensive problems: Annual inspections (bi-annual for coastal properties) identifying broken tiles, loose fasteners, valley deterioration, and flashing issues before they cause leaks. Post-storm inspections after any hurricane or tropical storm to identify displaced tiles and wind damage requiring immediate attention. Debris removal from valleys and roof surface—leaves and organic debris trap moisture accelerating underlayment deterioration. Tree trimming preventing branches from rubbing against tiles during wind events and keeping branches from falling and breaking tiles. Proper access protocols for HVAC technicians, satellite installers, and other contractors—improper walking is a leading cause of broken tiles. Never allow contractors unfamiliar with tile roofs to walk on your roof without supervision using proper boards. Our inspection services include tile condition documentation, problem identification, and maintenance recommendations specific to your tile type and location.

Insurance coverage for tile roof repairs depends on damage cause and your specific policy. Typically covered: Hurricane and windstorm damage including tile displacement and structural damage, hail damage to tiles (clay tiles are particularly vulnerable), sudden unexpected damage from falling trees or debris, and wind-driven rain damage during covered storm events. Typically not covered: Normal wear and tear and age-related deterioration, gradual underlayment failure from UV exposure and heat, deferred maintenance issues including pre-existing problems, and cosmetic damage not affecting roof weatherproofing. Florida insurance companies increasingly require 5-year roof certifications confirming roofs have minimum 5 years remaining useful life—failure to pass certification can trigger policy non-renewal. We provide comprehensive documentation for insurance claims including photographic evidence, professional damage assessments, moisture detection reports, and detailed repair estimates. Our experience with insurance adjusters helps homeowners navigate the claims process and obtain fair settlements.