How Do You Maintain a Tile Roof in Florida?
Hurricane Heroes is a South Florida-based home improvement brand specializing in roofing, impact windows, and solar energy installations through its divisions Hurricane Heroes Roofing & Impact Windows and Solar Heroes. It provides storm protection and clean energy solutions across Boca Raton, Hollywood, and surrounding South Florida areas.
Hurricane Heroes Roofing, Solar, And Impact Windows
1700 N Dixie licensed Florida roof contractors Hwy Ste 120
Boca Raton, FL 33432-1807
(954) 800-0570
Tile roofing is known for its elegance, durability, and storm resistance, making it a favorite among Florida homeowners. But while tiles themselves can last 30 to 50 years, the system beneath them — and the maintenance it requires — is just as important.
If you own a home in Coral Springs, Homestead, or Boca Raton, this guide from Hurricane Heroes will show you how to properly care for your tile roof to ensure it performs well in Florida’s high humidity, intense sun, and stormy seasons.
1. Understand What’s Beneath Your Tile Roof
Tile roofing systems aren’t just about the surface tiles. They rely on multiple components to keep your home protected:
- Underlayment (the waterproof barrier under tiles)
- Flashing (metal pieces at roof joints and valleys)
- Battens or foam for installation (depending on tile type)
In Florida, underlayment often fails long before the tile itself does — especially under harsh sun and daily temperature swings. That’s why tile roof maintenance is about more than checking visible cracks.
2. Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
At least once a year, your tile roof should be inspected by a licensed roofing professional familiar with Florida’s building codes. A full inspection will check for:
- Cracked, broken, or missing tiles
- Slipped or loose tiles
- Underlayment exposure or deterioration
- Damaged flashing or sealants
- Signs of ponding water or mildew
Homes in areas like Weston, Miami Lakes, or Boynton Beach particularly benefit from yearly inspections due to storm exposure and high humidity levels.
3. Keep It Clean – Carefully
Florida’s warm, humid climate encourages algae, mold, and lichen to grow on tile roofs. While this isn’t always structurally damaging, it can degrade aesthetics and trap moisture against the roof surface.
Cleaning your tile roof should be done cautiously:
- Use low-pressure washing — never high pressure, which can crack tiles or blast off protective finishes.
- Apply chemical algaecides or mold treatments as recommended by roofing professionals.
- Avoid walking on the tiles unless trained — they are slippery and brittle underfoot.
In coastal communities like Delray Beach or Sunny Isles Beach, salt buildup can also be an issue. Gentle rinsing helps prevent corrosion on any exposed metal flashing.
4. Repair Slipped or Broken Tiles Promptly
One or two cracked or slipped tiles might seem harmless, but they can lead to:
- Water intrusion under the roofing system
- UV degradation of underlayment
- Leaks that travel into your attic and ceiling
Hurricane Heroes performs tile resets and matching repairs for homeowners throughout Plantation, Pembroke Pines, and Wellington. Fast repair prevents small issues from becoming costly replacements.
5. Watch for Underlayment Lifespan
Even if your tile looks great on the surface, the waterproof underlayment beneath it typically lasts:
- 15–20 years for standard synthetic or felt
- 25–30 years for premium peel-and-stick or modified bitumen
Florida’s heat and sun can cut this lifespan shorter, especially in sun-exposed neighborhoods like North Miami Beach and Parkland. If your tile roof is approaching 20 years old, it’s time to evaluate the underlayment.
6. Inspect Flashing and Valleys After Every Storm
Wind and water can loosen flashing, especially around roof penetrations (chimneys, vents, skylights) and valleys. After heavy rain or hurricanes, you should:
- Look for exposed underlayment or metal edges
- Check for discolored areas, sagging, or puddling
- Request a post-storm inspection if you notice debris or tile displacement
Storm-exposed cities like Hollywood, Cutler Bay, and Hallandale Beach often require flashing repairs after each major event.
7. Don’t Ignore Attic Ventilation
Tile roofs must be paired with proper attic ventilation to prevent heat buildup, moisture damage, and premature aging of the roofing system. We ensure all our installations meet Florida Building Code ventilation standards, especially in hot inland zones like Lauderhill and Davie.
Common signs of poor ventilation:
- Hot second floors or high A/C bills
- Mildew or condensation in attic rafters
- Underlayment curling or cracking
8. Re-Seal Ridge Caps and Penetration Points
Tile roof ridge caps and plumbing vents are sealed using UV-resistant caulking or mortar. Over time, this sealant can dry, crack, or wash away — leaving weak points for water to enter.
At Hurricane Heroes, we reseal and reinforce all critical junctions during every maintenance visit. This is particularly important in homes located in storm-prone zones like North Palm Beach, Key Biscayne, and Golden Beach.
9. Keep Gutters and Valleys Clear
Debris from trees, algae buildup, and tile fragments can clog valleys and gutters, forcing water back beneath tiles. Regular cleaning ensures proper drainage and reduces the risk of rot and moisture entry.
We recommend clearing roof debris:
- Every 6 months, or
- After every major storm
Homeowners in lush communities like Pinecrest or Virginia Gardens should solar-ready roofing options stay especially vigilant due to frequent leaf and palm frond accumulation.
10. Maintain Your Warranty with Documented Care
If your tile roof is under warranty, annual inspections and minor repairs help protect your coverage. Most warranties do not cover damage due to lack of maintenance or ignored wear.
We provide official inspection documentation for insurance and warranty claims, especially for homes in:
- Miami-Dade County: Aventura, Sweetwater, Miami Springs
- Broward County: Deerfield Beach, Margate, Sea Ranch Lakes
- Palm Beach County: Riviera Beach, South Bay, Palm Springs
Protect Your Tile Roof with Hurricane Heroes
Florida’s climate demands a proactive approach to roofing care — especially with tile systems. Whether you’ve just moved in or your roof is nearing 20 years old, Hurricane Heroes provides full tile roof inspections, cleaning, repair, and re-roofing options across South Florida.
Call (954) 800-0570 to schedule your tile roof checkup or maintenance visit. From Surfside to Royal Palm Beach, we keep your tile roof storm-ready and stunning for decades to come.