Tile Roofing Inspection Checklist for Midwest Homeowners & Businesses
November 30, 2021
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By Stoneworth
Damage to the interior or exterior of your home can be caused by time, nature, or accidents. Roof damage can quickly go from minor to disastrous, especially in the Midwest, where storms may cause water damage and other structural issues. Though it is impossible to control everything that could possibly go wrong with your Kansas City roof, the two most important things you can do are to invest in quality roofing material like concrete or tile and to have your roof assessed regularly using a roofing inspection checklist.
Do Concrete Roof Tiles Need Replacing?
Individual tiles may become cracked or damaged due to weather conditions, falling debris or tree branches, or people walking on the roof. If this happens, it is important to replace tiles as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your home.
What Problems To Inspect
Concrete tiles themselves are strong and durable and built to last, yet there are many other parts and factors that contribute to the stability of a roof. In order to ensure proper functioning, it is important that a concrete re roof inspection consider all of the following elements:
Installation
Installing roof tiles is more complicated than most people realize. Work with a certified roofing contractor to ensure that all best practices are used. DIY roofing installations often fail to pay attention to all the parts of a roof such as flashing, leak barriers, ventilation, insulation, and underlayment. The underlayment is actually just as crucial, if not more so than the tile itself, and inefficient or improper layering of underlayment will cause your roof to daily prematurely.
Damaged tiles
Like any building material, concrete roof tiles are susceptible to damage from a variety of sources. Hail and other natural phenomena can cause roof tiles to crack or slide, leaving the underlayment vulnerable.
Environmental problems
Like any surface that gets wet, your roof can be a breeding ground for many types of plants. Some, like algae, cause mostly cosmetic damage. Others, like moss or mold, retain moisture and make your entire roof more vulnerable to environmental damage.
Excessive weight
It is easy to overlook the effects of weight on your roof, but even small things can add up. Snow and ice can create weight that causes tiles to buckle or become damaged. Tree limbs and other debris may similarly weigh down the roof when they remain present for too long.
When Should I Replace My Concrete Tile Roof?
Though concrete roof tiles are among the more durable roofing materials, nothing lasts forever. Even a properly installed underlayment will not last as long as the tiles themselves. Professional concrete roof inspections will examine the underlayment and find the earliest signs of leaks or water damage. Your roofing professional can tell you whether it is possible to repair these damages or to consider a full roof replacement. Attending any damage quickly is crucial to avoid completely destroying your home.
Average Lifespan of Concrete Tiles
Properly maintained, a tile roof has a lifespan of 50 years or more. However, as discussed above, other factors can influence this. Take care to protect your investment with roofing inspections at least once a year, with additional inspections after intense storm seasons.
Who Can Provide Concrete Inspections in the Midwest?
Though some aspects of a concrete re-roofing inspection can be done visually from the ground, a complete and thorough inspection should be performed only by a professional roofing contractor.