Most roof tiles are pretty durable. Composite asphalt shingles usually last 15 – 40 years. Concrete roof tiles usually last 30 up to 60 years, and clay roof tiles have a typical life span of 30 to 60 years.
Even though these tiles are extremely durable, they will eventually become worn out. But how do you tell if your roof tiles are worn or if they are still good to use for another decade or two?
The easiest way to tell if your roof tiles are failing is by keeping an eye out for the following signs of wear.
The Tiles Are Very Old
All roof tiles will eventually become too old and worn out. It can sometimes be difficult to tell if your tiles are old if you are not sure when the roof was replaced. With most homes over 50 years, the chances are pretty high that the tiles have already started expiring and perishing. But with relatively new homes it is a lot harder to tell if your tiles are worn out.
There Are Lots of Damaged and Missing Tiles
Tile rooftops are often installed by unskilled roofers who make a lot of mistakes. An improper installation method can cause roof tiles to slip out of place or can result in premature damage to your tiles. Your rooftop can also have lots of damaged or missing tiles after an intense storm or if a tree falls on your roof.
If a lot of tiles are missing or damaged then it is often better to replace your entire roof or you could end up with discoloured roofing materials or a roof that cost a lot but doesn’t hold up well.
The Underlayment Materials Are Worn
With most roof tiles, the underlayment materials need to be replaced every 20 years. When these materials are replaced, the tiles are usually removed, the underlayment is replaced and the tiles are re-installed on the roof. This usually isn’t too much of an inconvenience. But if your roof tiles are already pretty old then it might be better to just replace all the tiles while you are at it.
You Can See Growths on Your Tiles
Growths like mould, mildew, or algae often start to grow on and underneath roof tiles if there is plenty of humidity present. With many roof tiles, these growths can simply be cleared out and the tile can be cleaned. But if these growths have been left for too long they will cause damage to the roof tile. If the roof tile can’t be cleaned properly or if it has become porous then it is a sign of falling tiles.
There Are Lots of Small Cracks in the Tiles
Old roof tiles tend to dry out and can start to crack. Lots of cracks all over the tile is a big sign that the tile is worn out and needs to be replaced.
There Is a Musty Smell in the House
Worn-out roof materials can develop strange smells when they become old or start to erode. If you notice a musty smell in your home that lingers then it could be a sign of mould in your roof cavity. This can be an easy fix by improving the ventilation. It could however be a sign that some of the roof materials or structures are rotting away which can be very dangerous.
The best way to determine whether your roof tiles are damaged and worn is by consulting an roofing expert in Melbourne. Give Singh Roofing a call so they can come and inspect the roof tiles. These professionals can determine the state of your tiles for you and will be able to advise you on whether you should replace or keep them for longer.
