How a tile roof actually keeps water out
Clay and concrete tile is one of the most common roof types across East Valley neighborhoods. The tiles shed most of the rain and shade the roof from the sun, but they aren’t a sealed surface. Water can get between and under them, especially in wind-driven monsoon rain. Underneath is the underlayment, and that layer does the real waterproofing work. The tile on top is durable; the underlayment below it works hard in the Arizona heat and can wear out before the tile does.
Cracked and slipped tiles
Tiles crack when people walk on the roof without knowing where to step, when something heavy falls on them, or from storm impact. They slip out of place when their fasteners or fit loosen, leaving a gap. A single broken or shifted tile exposes the underlayment beneath it to direct sun and rain, which speeds up wear right at that spot. We replace damaged tiles, reset slipped ones, and move carefully on the roof so we don’t break more while we work. When an exact match for an older tile isn’t available, we’ll tell you up front and talk through the closest option.
Underlayment wear, explained in plain English
After years of Arizona summers, underlayment can dry out, turn brittle, crack, or wear through. It usually shows up first where water collects or moves: in valleys, around pipes and vents, along walls, and at the lower edges of the roof. Common signs are leaks during long winter rains, stains that come and go, or a roof that’s been patched again and again in the same area.
Underlayment is part of every free inspection we do. We check its condition where it can be seen and look closely at the areas where tile-roof leaks usually start. If underlayment work is needed, whether in one section or across more of the roof, your written estimate spells out what will be done, where, and why. Our work comes with a warranty; terms are in your written estimate.
What we check on a tile roof
- Broken, cracked, slipped, or missing field tiles
- Ridge and hip tiles
- Valleys, including debris buildup that holds water
- Flashing at walls, chimneys, skylights, and vents
- Pipe and vent penetrations
- Visible underlayment condition
- Signs of earlier patches and repeat leaks
Many tile homes also have a flat or low-slope section over a patio or addition. Those need different care, covered on our flat & foam roof page. If water is coming in right now, see 24/7 emergency leak repair.