Improper Roof Tile Installation
Getting your roof tiles installed correctly matters more than most homeowners realize. When tiles aren’t placed properly, you end up with leaks, damaged tile, and expensive repairs down the road. The biggest mistake contractors make is rushing through the overlap process. Each tile needs to sit just right on top of the one below it. This creates a barrier that keeps water from getting through to your home’s structure. Poor installation means tiles can shift or fall off during storms. You want your roof to last for decades, not just a few years. Westfall Roofing understands that proper tile work is essential for protecting your home and keeping your family dry and comfortable.
Why Roof Tiles Should Overlap
Overlapping tiles shed water, helping to direct it off your roof and away from your home. Think of them like fish scales – each piece covers part of the one below it, allowing water to flow down rather than seeping through gaps. However, it’s not a completely water-tight seal. For proper protection, the underlayment and tiles must be correctly fastened to prevent movement. Without proper overlap and secure fastening, rain can work its way under the tiles and into your attic or walls. The overlap also helps tiles stay in place during high winds. When a tile roofing system is positioned correctly, the tiles support each other and create a stronger overall system. Most quality tile installations use a specific overlap measurement that varies based on your roof’s pitch and the type of tiles used.
How to Overlap Roof Tiles the Right Way
Professional roofers follow specific steps to ensure proper tile overlap:
- Begin your tile roof installation from the bottom edge and work upward, row by row
- Position each tile to cover the correct portion of the tile below it
- Make sure side edges overlap with neighboring tiles for complete coverage
- Use chalk lines to keep rows straight and maintain consistent spacing
- Check measurements frequently to avoid gaps or excessive overlap
- Secure each tile with appropriate fasteners in the manufacturer’s recommended locations and tile adhesive foam, which reduces the number of penetrations in the underlayment, thereby minimizing the potential for leaks
Following these steps creates the double-layer protection your roof needs to keep water out.
What Happens When Your Roof Tiles Are Installed Wrong?
Poor tile installation creates several serious problems for homeowners:
- Water damage appears as stains on ceilings and walls where moisture seeps through
- Tiles blow off during storms, leaving your roof structure exposed to the elements. Additionally, these tiles can become projectile objects, posing a risk to your neighbors and the surrounding community.
- Energy costs increase as air leaks develop around improperly secured tiles
- Structural damage occurs when water reaches wooden beams and decking
- Mold and mildew growth start in damp areas where water has penetrated
These issues often develop gradually, so problems might not appear for months or years after installation.
Are Your Roof Tiles Properly Installed? Contact Westfall Roofing For A Tile Roof Inspection
If you’re concerned about your tile roof installation, Westfall Roofing can help. Our experienced roofers can check your overlap measurements, examine your fasteners, and look for signs of water damage or tile movement. Getting a professional inspection now can save you thousands in repair costs later.
We serve homeowners throughout Central Florida and provide honest assessments of your roof’s condition. Don’t wait until you have leaks or missing tiles. Contact Westfall Roofing today to schedule your tile roof inspection and get peace of mind about your home’s protection.
