We repair clay tile roofs and replace them when needed. We also replace failed underlayment beneath tiles that can be reused. The work depends on the condition of the tile and the layers below it.
Clay can look like other roof tiles, so we check the material before planning repairs. We work on homes and commercial buildings.
Confirm the material before clay tile repair
Terra cotta is a clay-based material, molded and fired, and roof tile is one of those products. A Spanish-style profile does not prove the tile is clay, because concrete tile can be used in that look. Knowing the material comes first, since it shapes both matching and the work that follows.
Repair on a clay roof covers small jobs. That includes leaks, loose or slipped tile, and flashing at roof transitions. Clay sits alongside concrete and slate in the tile roofing work we take on.
An underlayment replacement puts the same tile back on the roof when it is suitable for reuse. A full replacement, also called a re-roof, changes the covering itself.
Assess repair and matching options
For a local repair, we check the roof around the damaged area. New pieces must also fit the shape of your existing tiles.
A slipped or cracked piece does not by itself decide the scope of the work. It also does not prove that a patch is the right answer for that roof. We take on roof repair on tile and shingle roofs.
Start with what you can see from inside the building or from the ground. Tell us where water appears and whether tiles have slipped or come loose. Let us know whether the damage is in one area or spread across the roof.
Those details give us a starting point for a free estimate. Reach us at (323) 616-1483, or use our contact page if writing it out is easier.
Underlayment and flashing under clay tile
Underlayment is the waterproof layer under tile or shingle. Tile can look sound while the underlayment below it has failed.
Reaching that layer takes a lift and relay. Working in sections, we stack the tile on site and strip the failed underlayment away. New underlayment only goes down after we have checked the deck sheathing and replaced any rot.
We restack the original tile when its condition allows. A tile roof underlayment replacement targets the layer under the tile, not the covering itself.
Flashing is the metal that seals roof-to-wall, chimney, and valley transitions. Our repair work includes it.
Roof accessories can alter a tile roof at a penetration, meaning a spot where something passes through the roof. The Tile Roofing Industry Alliance describes flashing at the deck and underlayment, and again at the tile. The deck and underlayment flashing gives secondary protection if tile or tile flashing is breached.
Clay roof replacement
Replacing an existing clay roof and putting clay on a new build are different projects. The first starts with a covering already on the deck. The second starts with the deck itself.
Tear off means stripping to the deck rather than overlaying a new covering on the old. We handle full roof replacement on a building that already has a covering in place.
Los Angeles publishes green building and sustainability guidance for building projects. Read it against the clay product you are considering.
We also help property owners pull a required roofing permit from the city or other authority with jurisdiction. That authority decides what any particular project needs.
Choosing clay for your roof
Clay and concrete tile can look alike on a finished roof. Weigh clay vs concrete roof tiles side by side before you settle on a material.
Ludowici publishes a product record for LudoSlate, which the manufacturer documents as a clay roof tile. Open that record when you want the material stated by the maker rather than implied by a name.
Clay tile roofing questions
How expensive is a clay tile roof?
Cost follows the scope of the work, including whether the tile has to come off and go back on. How many squares, how many stories, the pitch, existing layers, and rot under the covering also drive it. Our estimates are free, while a detailed inspection and written report is a separate paid service.
What are the downsides of using clay tile roofing?
Matching replacement pieces and reaching the underlayment are two practical concerns with clay tile. A partial repair needs pieces with a compatible profile. Replacing failed underlayment requires lifting the tiles, even when those tiles remain suitable for reuse.
Can tile roofs be repaired?
Yes, clay tile repairs can address slipped pieces, leaks and flashing. Matching begins with the actual material and profile, since a Spanish-style shape does not prove a tile is clay. Failed underlayment may need separate work beneath reusable pieces.
Call (323) 616-1483 when you want a free estimate on clay tile work. We cover repair, underlayment replacement, and re-roofing across the cities we serve.
Tile Roofing Los Angeles is a division of Home Vision Remodel. Our license is CSLB #1112525.
(323) 616-1483