Do Concrete Roof Tiles Require Maintenance?

Stay Off of the Roof

• You can easily damage the concrete tiles on your roof if you walk on them improperly. Broken tiles can allow moisture, dirt, debris and vermin to reach the underlayment and cause significant damage. Damaged underlayment may have to be replaced within a few years. Your best bet is to stay off of the roof. If you must walk on your roof, use a walk pad to help distribute your weight across a number of tiles.

Keep it Clean

• Moss, algae and mildew typically do not grow on concrete roof tiles, but they do grow on the dirt and organic debris that accumulates on your roof. There is no long-term method of preventing the growth of moss, algae or mildew on your concrete roof tiles, but it is possible to remove them through proper cleaning, according to the MonierLifetile website. Different types of concrete tiles may require slightly different methods of cleaning, but MonierLifetile recommends using a pressure washer set at approximately 1,200 pounds per square inch held at one to two feet from the tiles. Wet concrete roof tiles can be extremely slippery. MonierLifetile website recommends using a professional cleaning service rather than trying to do it yourself.

Sealing and Painting

• Concrete roof tiles come in a variety of colors. If you are happy with the color of your roof tiles you should seal them using a clear acrylic sealer. If you prefer a different color you can paint concrete roof tiles with acrylic paint. Your roof tiles should be cleaned and completely dried before painting or sealing.

Replace Broken Tiles

• Broken tiles can allow moisture and debris to penetrate your roof. You must replace broken tiles to maintain the integrity of your roofing system. You must break up the tile into smaller pieces and remove the tile completely before you can replace it. Patch any nail holes or tears in the underlayment. Replace the broken tile with a new tile. The Roof Inspection Solutions website notes that it is difficult to match tile colors from different runs.