How To Fix Broken Roof Tiles - What To Do and Why

7 October 2024

Owning a property comes with its own set of responsibilities, one of which is maintaining the roof. Broken roof tiles are a common issue that many property owners face. Addressing this problem promptly is essential to prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of your home or business premises.

At DK Roofing Solutions, we understand the importance of providing reliable and straightforward guidance on roof maintenance.

This helpful guide on how to fix a broken roof  will outline the steps you should take if you find yourself with broken roof tiles, explaining why each step is necessary.

Identifying the Roof Problem

Before you can fix broken roof tiles, it's crucial to identify the problem accurately.

Regularly inspect your roof for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or missing tiles.

Additionally, check for any signs of water leakage inside your property, which often indicates a problem with the roof.

Roof repairs can be hazardous

Safety First - Ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment, including stable ladders, gloves, non-slip shoes, and a secure harness if required plus assistance with the job (never climb a roof unassisted).

If you're uncomfortable with heights or unsure about the process, we would recommend contacting a professional roofing service like DK Roofing Solutions to handle the roof inspection first (which we can carry out using our licensed in-house drone operators) and any repairs that are needed afterwards.

For any questions or for a free quote, call our professional roofers and drone operators on 01462 237 729

Steps to Fix Broken Roof Tiles

  1. Remove the Broken Tile
    Using a flat pry bar, gently lift the surrounding tiles to access the broken one. Carefully remove the broken tile by sliding it out. Avoid causing further damage to adjacent tiles during this process.
  2. Inspect the Underlayment
    Once the broken tile is removed, inspect the underlayment (the protective layer beneath the tiles). Ensure it is intact and undamaged. Any issues with the underlayment should be addressed immediately, as it plays a crucial role in waterproofing your roof. Asphalt-saturated felt, also known as tar paper or roofing felt, is a traditional underlayment material. It is made by saturating a base material, such as recycled paper or fiberglass, with asphalt. Asphalt-saturated felt is an affordable option and provides basic water resistance.
  3. Replace with a New Tile
    Slide a new tile into place, ensuring it fits securely with the surrounding tiles. If the tiles are nailed down, you may need to use a roofing nail to secure the replacement tile. Ensure the new tile aligns perfectly with the existing ones to maintain the roof's uniform appearance.
  4. Re-secure the Surrounding Tiles
    Once the new tile is in place, re-secure the surrounding tiles that were lifted. Double-check to ensure all tiles are sitting flat and securely fastened to prevent future issues.

Why Prompt Roof Repairs Are Essential

  • Prevent Water Damage: Broken tiles can lead to water seeping into your property, causing significant damage to the structure and interior
  • Maintain Structural Integrity: Regular maintenance ensures your roof remains strong and capable of withstanding various weather conditions
  • Avoid Large Roof Repairs: Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major, more expensive problems that can lead to large scale roof repairs or re-roofing

When to Call Professional Roofers

While minor repairs can be handled by property owners if all safety measures are in place, more extensive damage or uncertainty about the repair process warrants professional help. At DK Roofing Solutions, we offer expert roofing services to ensure your roof is in optimal condition. Peace of mind comes from knowing that your property is well-protected.

More on Roof Repairs

Fixing Broken Roof Tiles

Fixing broken roof tiles is vital for maintaining the health and integrity of your property. By following these straightforward steps, you can address minor damage efficiently. However, we would urge you to hire a professional roofer for all roof repairs for obvious safety reasons and in addition for more complex issues, please contact DK Roofing Solutions.

We are here to provide reliable roofing solutions that give you peace of mind.

For any questions or for a free quote, call our professional roofers and drone operators on 01462 237 729