Tile Roofing: Pros, Cons, and Maintenance Tips

Tile roofs have stood the test of time—just look at any Mediterranean villa or classic Tudor home. They’re beautiful, long-lasting, and tough. But when a storm hits at 2 a.m. or you spot a leak, things can get stressful fast. That’s when STL Roofing steps in, day or night, with emergency roofing solutions and a calm, steady hand.

If you’re considering tile roofing, or already have it, knowing the pros, cons, and how to care for it will keep your home or business protected. Let’s walk through what you need to know—no confusing jargon, just the facts you can use.

Tile Roof Types

Every roof tells a story. With tile, you have three main chapters: clay, concrete, and slate. Each has its own strengths and quirks.

Clay Tile

Clay tiles are the terracotta warriors of the roofing world. Their deep, earthy reds and oranges have topped homes for centuries. They’re fire-resistant, won’t rot, and can last over 100 years if cared for. But—they’re heavy. Your roof structure must be ready to support that weight. Clay tiles can also be brittle if walked on or struck by flying debris.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tiles are the practical cousin. They mimic the look of clay or stone but come in more colors and profiles. They’re less expensive than natural materials and still offer solid durability—think 40–75 years. Concrete tiles are heavy, too, but a bit tougher if you need to walk on the roof for repairs.

Slate Tile

Slate is the crown jewel. Real stone, split into thin tiles, brings a classic, elegant look that can outlast almost anything—sometimes up to 150 years. It’s the heaviest of the bunch and comes with a higher price tag, but nothing looks or performs quite like it. Slate’s Achilles’ heel? Fragility. A stray branch or heavy footfall can crack it.

If you’re in a region with wild weather swings, like Midwest freeze-thaw cycles, talk to your roofer about tile type and underlayment. Building codes (see International Residential Code Section R905 for tile roofing) may also guide what’s best for your property.

Installation Process 🛠️

Installing tile roofing is like assembling a giant, weatherproof puzzle. It takes skill, patience, and the right materials.

• Assessment: First, STL Roofing checks your existing roof structure. Tile is heavy—sometimes twice as heavy as asphalt shingles. We make sure your framing and decking are sound.
• Underlayment: Waterproof underlayment goes down next, acting as a safety net if water sneaks past a tile.
• Battens/Starter Rows: Wood or metal strips (battens) may be installed to anchor tiles in place, depending on slope and design.
• Laying Tiles: Tiles are set in overlapping rows, each interlocking with its neighbor. Think of it as shingles, but chunkier and stronger.
• Flashing and Ventilation: Metal flashing is installed around chimneys, skylights, and valleys—places where leaks love to start. Adequate ventilation keeps your attic cool and dry.
• Finishing Touches: Ridge caps, edge tiles, and sealants are applied to lock everything down.

The process can take longer than with lighter roofing materials, but the result is a roof built to last.

Maintenance Schedule

Tile roofs are low-maintenance, but not no-maintenance. A few proactive steps keep them in top shape.

• Twice-yearly inspections: Check for cracked, slipped, or broken tiles—especially after storms. Spring and fall are good times.
• Clear debris: Remove leaves and sticks from valleys and gutters. Debris holds moisture and can cause mold or ice dams.
• Check flashing and sealants: Metal flashing and sealants around chimneys, skylights, and vents are weak points. Look for signs of rust, gaps, or dried-out sealant.
• Moss and algae control: In shady, damp areas, moss and algae can grow. These should be gently removed. Avoid pressure washing, which can damage tiles.
• Professional inspection every 3–5 years: A seasoned roofer spots issues you might miss—hidden cracks, underlayment problems, or subtle signs of leaks.

Regular upkeep is your shield against costly emergencies.

Repair and Replacement Tips

Even a tough tile roof needs help now and then. Here’s what to watch for—and what to do.

Spotting Trouble

• Leaks or water stains inside? Check the attic and ceilings after heavy rain.
• Cracked or missing tiles after a storm, especially around roof edges and valleys.
• Sagging or uneven roofline may suggest structural issues.

DIY or Call STL Roofing?

Replacing a single tile might look simple. But tile roofs are like dominoes—move the wrong one, and you could break several more or damage the underlayment. For most repairs, especially anything involving leaks or structure, call STL Roofing for roof repair near you. We’re equipped for emergency roofing, even in harsh weather.

How Pros Handle It

• Assessment: We pinpoint the source—inside and out.
• Safe removal: Damaged tiles are carefully lifted without disturbing neighboring pieces.
• Underlayment checked: We inspect for water damage or rot beneath the tiles.
• Tile replacement or reinstallation: New or salvaged matching tiles are set, sealed, and tested for leaks.

For larger repairs—like hail damage, major leaks, or structural fixes—our crews bring specialized equipment and decades of know-how.

Regional Suitability

Tile roofing shines in regions with:

• Mild to hot climates: Clay and concrete tiles are naturally cooling, reflecting sunlight.
• Fire-prone areas: Tile’s non-combustible nature is a major plus.
• Historic districts: Many communities require or encourage period-appropriate roofing.

But—tile can be vulnerable to heavy snow, ice, or freeze-thaw cycles. In areas like St. Louis, proper underlayment, roof pitch, and flashing are critical. STL Roofing adapts each project to local weather patterns and building codes.

STL Roofing’s Tile Roof Project Highlights

We’ve restored tile roofs on century-old homes, installed new clay tiles on modern builds, and responded to late-night emergencies after summer hailstorms. Our crews have handled everything from minor leak repair to full structural reinforcement. We’re proud to bring a craftsman’s touch and a calm, patient approach to every job—residential or commercial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a tile roof last?
Clay and slate tiles often last 75–150 years. Concrete tiles, about 40–75 years. Underlayment may need replacement sooner—every 20–30 years.

Are tile roofs expensive?
Upfront costs are higher than asphalt shingles, but the long lifespan and low maintenance can make them a wise investment over time.

Can I walk on my tile roof?
It’s risky. Tiles can crack underfoot. If you must, step on the lower third of each tile, but it’s safer to call a pro.

What if I spot a leak or broken tile after a storm?
Cover the area with a tarp if it’s safe. Then call STL Roofing for emergency roofing. We’ll respond promptly and assess the damage.

Local and Seasonal Factors

In regions like St. Louis and the Midwest, tile roofs must face all four seasons. Winter freeze-thaw cycles can stress tiles and underlayment; spring storms test flashing and sealants. Our team monitors local weather patterns and adapts installation and maintenance routines accordingly.

For safety, always follow OSHA guidelines for roof work, and check your local building code for specific requirements on tile roofing.

Tile roofing is an investment in beauty, durability, and peace of mind—but only if it’s installed and maintained right. When you need roof repair near you—whether it’s routine care or true emergency roofing—STL Roofing has your back.

Call STL Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  888-887-3097 .