How to Replace Clay Roofing Tiles

Lean a metal ladder securely against the roof. Gear up in anti-slip shoes, work gloves and safety goggles before accessing the tile roof.

Access the damaged clay tile from the ladder, if attainable. If you must access the roof, distribute your weight on a sheet of durable plywood.

Lift up the clay tile sitting directly above the damaged tile you plan to replace. Wedge a narrow wooden board under the lifted tile to expose the entire damaged tile.

Extract existing nails from the damaged tile using a pry bar. Twist the pry bar as you force the nails upward.

Hit the damaged tile with a hammer until the tile breaks. Make sure you don’t accidentally hit surrounding tiles. Remove the broken clay pieces from the area.

Hook a tile clip onto the sheathing, which is the exposed section of the roof's surface. Attach the bottom end of the clip, which is protruding outward, onto the bottom of the clay replacement tile. Secure the new tile in place.

Remove the wooden board out from underneath the tile above the replacement tile. Gently rest the tile so that it overlaps the replacement tile.