How to Replace S-Style Clay Tiles

There are a number of materials, such as asphalt shingles, wood slats and clay tiles, that you can use to cover and protect a roof. Clay tiles, which are molded into shape and baked, are one of the oldest forms of pitched roof coverage and are still commonly used today. Clay tiles are available in S-style, or curved shapes, to accommodate your roofing needs. On a roof, the clay tiles' head lugs hook onto wood strips known as battens. To replace the tiles, slip their head lugs from behind the batten strips.

2 by 4 lumber board
Tape measure
Pencil
Circular saw
Hammer
Flathead pry bar
Replacement tile

Instructions

- 1
  Measure 12 inches back from the butt end of a 2 by 4 board and scribe a mark across the face. Scribe a line diagonally across the face of the 2 by 4 board from the butt end to the 12-inch mark to form two wedges. Cut the diagonal line followed by the 12-inch mark using a circular saw.
- 2
  Place one wedge on top of the clay tile next to the damaged tile. Tap the wedge's tapered end gently between the two undamaged tiles to raise the course away from the upper edge of the damaged tile.
- 3
  Set the second wedge on the course directly below the damaged tile. Slip the tapered edge of the wedge between the clay tiles that overlap the outside edge. Tap the back of the wedge gently to raise the clay tile and expose its outside edge.
- 4
  Inspect the clay tile for any fasteners that may secure it to the roof. Slip the claw end of a flat bar under the heads of any fasteners and pry them out of the tile.
- 5
  Lift the tile's back edge up to dislodge the head lug from the roof batten. Slide the tile down to remove it.
- 6
  Slide a new clay tile featuring the same S-pattern into the opening. Slip the head lug behind the roof batten and push it firmly into place. Remove the wedges and push down on the surrounding tiles gently to secure them into place.

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