Key Takeaways:
- Temperature extremes, wind, rain & snowfall, UV rays, roof traffic, leaks, improper weight distribution, fallen tree branches, and chemical degradation can all cause damage to concrete tile roofs.
- Pests and rodents can also find their way onto the roof and cause damage.
- Concrete tiles are strong and resilient but must be properly installed and maintained to maximize lifespan.
- Homeowners should routinely inspect their roofs for any signs of wear or damage caused by weather conditions and take measures to address them immediately.
Do you have a concrete tile roof? If so, you know strong and resilient roof covering with a substantially longer estimated service life than many other roof materials on the market. Concrete tiles are a trendy roof covering material in the southern United States due to their performance and aesthetic benefits. But did you also know that some sources of damage can affect your concrete tile roof and potentially put the people in your home at risk?
In this blog post, Level Up Innovations LLC will look at some of the sources of damage to concrete tile roofs, including why they occur and how they can become a risk to inhabitants.
01: Temperature Extremes
Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause significant damage to your concrete tile roof. During hot weather, the tiles absorb heat which can cause them to crack or warp over time. Cold weather can pose issues because frozen water expands and causes the tiles to break apart or become brittle. In both cases, these issues can be prevented with proper installation and insulation by an experienced contractor.
02: Wind
One of the most common sources of damage to concrete tile roofs is wind. High winds can cause tiles to blow off the roof, leaving it vulnerable to water and debris infiltration. Strong winds can also cause tiles to crack or break due to the pressure exerted by the wind. This damage should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage from occurring.
03: Rain & Snowfall
Heavy rainstorms and snowfall can also cause severe damage to concrete tile roofs if not properly maintained over time. If you notice any signs of wear or damage caused by weather conditions, you must address them immediately before they become more serious problems down the road. Ensure that gutters are cleaned regularly so water doesn’t pool on your roof, which could lead to further damage. Additionally, check your attic ventilation system regularly so that warm air isn’t escaping into cold regions, which could result in ice dams on your roof.
04: UV Rays
The sun’s UV rays can damage your concrete tile roof over time as they fade the color of the tiles and weaken their structural integrity. Applying an acrylic sealant may help protect against this type of damage, but it should only be done professionally.
05: Roof Traffic
One of the most common sources of damage to any roof is foot traffic from workers repairing or replacing tiles or flashing around vents and chimneys. If left unaddressed, this abuse can easily cause cracks and other damages that significantly reduce your roof’s lifespan. Whenever possible, ensure that any repair work is done by professionals who understand how fragile concrete tile is and know how to properly install roof tiles without causing damage to the underlying material.
06: Leaks
Leaks are one of the most problematic sources of damage that can affect concrete tile roofs because they can put inhabitants at risk for health issues like mold growth and water intrusion into interior spaces. Leaks usually occur when joint areas between tiles become worn due to weathering or improper installation techniques. This results in water pooling on top of the tiles themselves, seeping through any openings in the tiles themselves into interior spaces below them. It’s essential to make sure all joints between tiles are properly sealed with caulk or other waterproof materials to prevent leaks from occurring in the first place. Inspect your roof routinely after the installation so issues don’t have a chance to develop over time.
07: Improper Weight Distribution
It is another common source of damage to concrete tile roofs. Concrete tiles are known for their robust nature and longevity, but they can only handle so much weight before cracking or becoming dislodged from the roof itself. It’s vital to ensure that any equipment or furniture on your roof is safely and evenly distributed across the roof surface to prevent any unnecessary strain or damage to the tiles.
08: Fallen Tree Branches
Tree branches falling from nearby trees can also cause damage to concrete tile roofs. Concrete tiles are generally resilient against typical storms and winds, but large fallen objects like tree branches can easily break or dislodge the tiles.
09: Pests & Rodents
Another source of damage to concrete tile roofs is pests and rodents like termites, woodpeckers, bees, raccoons, and squirrels, who may find their way onto the roof. These animals may burrow into the tiles for food or shelter, resulting in weakened support structures and mold growth caused by water leaks in areas where they have created holes. Pests and rodents can also leave behind debris, such as nesting material which can lead to clogs in gutters and downspouts, preventing proper drainage off your roof during rainstorms.
10: Chemical Degradation
Concrete tiles are porous and susceptible to chemical degradation caused by airborne pollutants such as acid rain or industrial emissions. This damage can weaken the tiles over time, making them more prone to breaking off during storms or other extreme weather conditions. To protect their home from this type of damage, homeowners must maintain good air circulation within their homes by opening windows on occasion and avoiding excessive use of chemical cleaning products on their roof tiles as much as possible.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, concrete tile roofs are durable and long-lasting; however, they can become damaged if they are not adequately cared for. Taking steps to prevent these causes of damage and monitoring them regularly can help ensure the longevity and safety of your roof.
Level Up Innovations LLC provides roof repair and replacement services due to storm damage in LaPlata, Maryland. We work diligently to guarantee that your roof is repaired or rebuilt as soon as feasible. Get a free estimate today!
