Tile Roofs Built to Last and Repaired the Right Way
Clay and concrete tile roofs can last for decades and give Mediterranean, Spanish, and Hill Country homes their signature look. But when a tile roof leaks, the problem usually isn’t the tile you can see. It’s the underlayment underneath, and finding it takes experience.
We repair, restore, and install tile roofs for homeowners across the Austin area and San Antonio. We assess the whole system, explain what’s actually causing the problem, and recommend the right fix, from replacing a few broken tiles to addressing worn underlayment.
Why Tile Roofs Leak
A tile roof works in two layers. The tile sheds most of the water and protects what’s beneath it. The underlayment is the true waterproofing.
The underlayment wears out first
Tile can last for generations, but the underlayment beneath it has a shorter life, especially under years of Texas heat. When it fails, water gets in even if every tile looks fine.
Cracked and slipped tiles
Hail, falling limbs, and foot traffic from other trades can crack or shift tiles, exposing the underlayment to sun and water.
Valleys and flashing
Debris builds up in valleys, and flashing at walls and chimneys wears over time. Both are common sources of tile roof leaks.
Tile Roofs We Work On
Clay Tile
Classic terracotta color and texture that lasts for generations. Lighter than concrete, but more brittle underfoot.
Concrete Tile
Durable and available in many profiles and colors. Heavier than clay, and often found on newer Texas homes.
Spanish and Barrel Tile
The curved S-tile and barrel profiles that define Spanish and Mediterranean architecture.
Repair, Underlayment, or New Tile?
Most tile roofs don’t need to be replaced. Here’s how we think about your options. (Have slate instead? See our slate roofing page.)
Tile Repair
When the problem is limited to broken or slipped tiles, flashing, or a single area, we replace or reset the affected tiles and repair the flashing. It’s the most common tile fix.
Underlayment or Full Replacement
When the underlayment has failed across the roof, the long-term fix is new underlayment. Where the existing tile is in good condition, we’ll talk through options for reusing it. We’ll explain the tradeoffs before you decide.
What Affects the Cost of Tile Work
Extent of the Damage
A few tiles and a roof-wide underlayment problem are very different projects.
Tile Matching
Older or discontinued tiles can take time to source.
Underlayment Condition
Failed underlayment is the biggest factor in larger tile projects.
Tile Type
Clay, concrete, and profile affect handling, labor, and material cost.
Size and Pitch
Larger and steeper roofs take more time to work on safely.
Flashing and Valleys
Worn flashing and valleys add to the scope when they need replacing.
A free inspection is the first step toward a clear, honest price.
How We Handle Tile Roofs
Tile work takes patience and experience. Here’s how we approach every tile roof.
01
Find the Real Cause
We look beyond the tiles to the underlayment, flashing, and valleys where tile leaks start.
02
Explain Your Options
You’ll know what’s failing and why, with an honest recommendation from repair to replacement.
03
Match Your Tile
We look for replacement tile that matches your roof’s profile and color.
04
Work Carefully
Tile is brittle underfoot, so we work in ways that avoid creating new damage.
05
Leave It Clean
We clean up thoroughly and walk you through the finished work.
Want the tile look with less weight? See the Worthouse metal tile roof we installed on Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant, or explore metal roofing.
BBB Accredited · Fully Insured · 45+ Years of Combined Experience
Tile Roofing Questions
Why is my tile roof leaking if the tiles look fine?
Because the tile isn’t the waterproofing. The underlayment beneath the tile is. When it wears out, water can get in even if every tile is intact. An inspection shows what’s happening underneath.
Can you replace a few broken tiles?
Yes. Replacing or resetting individual tiles is one of the most common tile repairs, as long as the underlayment beneath them is still sound.
Can you match my existing tile?
Often, yes. We look for tile that matches your roof’s profile and color. Older tiles are sometimes discontinued, and we’ll show you the closest options before we start.
Clay or concrete tile: which is better?
Both last a long time. Clay holds its color for generations and weighs less. Concrete is typically more affordable and comes in many styles. The right choice depends on your home’s structure, style, and budget.
How long does a tile roof last?
The tile itself can last 50 years or more. The underlayment beneath it usually needs attention sooner, which is why regular inspections matter for tile roofs.
Can I walk on my tile roof?
We don’t recommend it. Tile can crack under foot traffic, and a cracked tile can expose the underlayment. Let us inspect it for you.
Have a Tile Roof That Needs Attention?
We’ll find the real cause, explain your options honestly, and help you protect your roof for the long term.