Tile Roofs & Underlayment (Re-Felt)

The tiles themselves can often last 50 years or more, but the underlayment beneath them usually does not. In Arizona heat, tile roof underlayment often needs attention somewhere around 20 to 30 years, depending on the type of underlayment, roof ventilation and how well the roof has been maintained. That is why an older tile roof can look fine from the street but still leak. See how long roofs last in Arizona.

A re-felt replaces the worn underlayment beneath a tile roof while reusing the existing tiles where possible. The crew removes the tiles, tears off the old underlayment, repairs any damaged decking, installs new underlayment and flashing, then reinstalls the tiles and replaces any that are broken. It restores the roof's waterproofing without the cost of all-new tile. Learn more in our guide to tile roof underlayment replacement.

Common signs include leaks or ceiling stains, especially after heavy rain, and a roof that is around 20 years old or more. When tiles are lifted, worn underlayment may look brittle, cracked, torn or crumbling, particularly along the lower edges and in valleys. You may also notice water stains on the attic decking. Because most of the underlayment is hidden, a professional inspection is the best way to judge its condition.

Concrete and clay tiles are very durable, but the underlayment is made of materials that slowly break down. Arizona's extreme heat bakes the underlayment day after day, making it dry and brittle. Water that gets past the tiles, debris buildup and gaps around flashing speed up the wear. Over time it cracks and tears, and once it fails, water that slips under the tiles reaches the roof deck.

In many cases, yes. Most concrete and clay tiles can be carefully removed, stacked and reinstalled on the new underlayment. Some tiles will break during removal or are already cracked, so a re-felt usually includes replacing those pieces. If your tile style is discontinued, the roofer may relocate original tiles to the most visible areas and use the closest available match where it shows least.

Concrete tiles are made from cement and sand, come in many profiles and colors, and are the most common tile on Arizona homes. Clay tiles are made from fired clay, are known for their natural color and traditional look, and are often lighter than concrete. Both are long-lasting and heavy compared with shingles, and both rely on underlayment for waterproofing. See benefits of a tile roof.

Have cracked or broken tiles replaced soon, even if the roof is not leaking yet. A broken tile exposes the underlayment beneath it to direct sun and water, which speeds up wear and can lead to leaks, especially during monsoon storms. Replacing a few tiles is usually a quick repair. Do not climb up to swap them yourself, since walking on tile often breaks more of it.

It is best not to. Concrete and clay tiles can crack under a person's weight, especially when stepped on in the wrong spot, and a crack you cannot see may still let water reach the underlayment. Tile roofs are also slippery and steep. If you need to check something, use binoculars from the ground or look in the attic, and leave rooftop work to experienced roofers.

Not entirely. Tiles shed most rainwater, but wind-driven rain and water from storms can get beneath them. The underlayment underneath is what actually keeps water out of the home, and flashing seals valleys, walls and penetrations. That is why the condition of the underlayment matters so much on a tile roof, and why a roof with perfect-looking tiles can still leak.

Tile roofs commonly use asphalt-based felt, synthetic underlayment or self-adhered membranes, sometimes in combination. Traditional felt has been widely used for decades, while synthetic and self-adhered products are designed for added durability or for specific areas like valleys and low-slope sections. The right choice depends on the roof, local code and the tile manufacturer's requirements. Ask your roofer to name the product in your estimate.

A re-felt typically takes longer than a shingle replacement because each tile is removed, stored and reinstalled by hand. Many homes take about a week or so, but timing varies with roof size, pitch, complexity, the amount of deck repair needed and weather. Your roofer should give a project timeline in the estimate and explain how the roof is protected if work spans several days.

Yes, a partial re-felt is possible when wear or leaks are limited to one area, such as a single slope or a valley. It can be a reasonable option if the rest of the underlayment is in good condition. However, if the roof is old enough that all of the underlayment is aging, repairing one section may only delay the next leak. An inspection helps decide which approach makes sense.

Pigeons and other birds nest under tile because the gaps at the roof edges and under curved tiles offer shade and shelter. Nests and droppings can clog drainage, damage underlayment and create odor and mess. The usual fix is to clear the nesting material and install bird stops or screening at the eave openings to block access. Having this done during maintenance prevents birds from returning each season.

For many Arizona homeowners, yes. Tile handles heat and sun well, the tiles can last for decades, and the air space beneath them can help reduce heat transfer. Tile also fits the look of many Valley neighborhoods and HOA requirements. The trade-offs are higher upfront cost, added weight and the need to replace underlayment over time. Whether it is worth it depends on your home and plans.

If your home was built with tile, the structure was designed for it. If you are switching from shingles or another lighter roof to tile, the framing may need to be evaluated, because tile is much heavier. Some homes need structural reinforcement before tile can be installed. A qualified professional should confirm the roof can carry the load before you commit to the change.

Tile roofs most often leak in valleys, along walls and chimneys where flashing is needed, around vents and other penetrations, and at the lower edges where water collects. Valleys are a frequent problem because debris builds up there and the underlayment handles heavy water flow. Broken tiles and worn underlayment anywhere on the roof can also let water through. These spots deserve a close look during inspections.

A re-felt replaces the underlayment and reuses the existing tiles where possible. A full replacement installs new tiles as well, which may make sense if the tiles are badly damaged, discontinued and hard to match, or if you want a different color or style. A re-felt is often the more practical option when the tiles are sound. Your roofer can explain which fits your roof.

Start by identifying the tile manufacturer and profile, which a roofer can often determine from the tile itself. Some styles are still made, while others are discontinued. Roofers may use salvaged tiles, the closest current match, or relocate original tiles to visible areas and place new ones where they show least. Color can also differ as older tiles fade, so expect some variation.

Yes, tile roofs need some maintenance even though the tiles last a long time. Routine care includes replacing cracked or slipped tiles, clearing debris from valleys and edges, checking flashing and penetrations, and keeping birds out. Inspections once or twice a year, especially before monsoon season, catch problems while they are small. Payne Roofing offers roof repairs and maintenance for tile roofs across the Phoenix area and East Valley.

Cracked or missing mortar along ridges and hips is a common sign of age and movement. On many tile roofs, the caps along those lines are set in mortar, and heat, settling and weather can cause it to crack or loosen. Loose caps can shift in high winds and let water reach the underlayment. Having the caps reset or resecured is usually a straightforward repair if caught early.

Yes, solar panels can be installed on tile roofs, but it takes care. Installers often remove or modify tiles where mounts are attached and need proper flashing to keep water out. Tiles can also break when crews walk on them. If your underlayment is getting older, consider a re-felt before installing solar, since removing panels later adds cost. See solar panels and your roof.

A tile roof can help reduce heat gain compared with some other materials. Many tile profiles leave an air space between the tile and the deck, which can slow the transfer of heat into the attic. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight than dark ones. Overall cooling still depends heavily on attic ventilation, insulation and your HVAC system, so the roof is only one part of the picture.

Tiles can slip when fasteners fail, when the battens or underlayment beneath them deteriorate, or when someone walks on the roof. Strong monsoon winds and heat-related movement can also shift tiles over time. A slipped tile leaves underlayment exposed to sun and rain and can let water in. Have slipped tiles reset and secured, and ask the roofer to check whether the underlying cause is spreading.

Yes. Payne Roofing handles tile roof repairs and tile re-felts, or underlayment replacement, on concrete and clay tile roofs across the Phoenix area and East Valley. The process includes removing and reinstalling the existing tiles where possible and replacing broken ones. Ask about warranty options for your specific project. Call 480-988-9250 or request a free estimate to have your tile roof evaluated.