In this article I am going to discuss tile roofs. As a home inspector I have inspected tile roofs as part of a home inspection. I will say that I am not a fan of tile roofs. They are expensive, need constant maintainence and rarely last as long as they should. Below, are the reasons for my scepticism concerning these roof types.

1. Cost: Tile roof can be more expensive to install and repair compared to other roofing materials.
2. Weight: Tile roofs are heavier than other roofing materials, which require additional structrural support for your home.
3. Fragiliity: Individual tiles can break or crack easily, especially in areas that are prone to hail or extreme weather conditions. If I am inspecting a home with a tile roof, I will not walk on it due to their fragile nature. . Without walking a roof, it is difficult to perform a comprehensive evaluation.
4. Maintainenance: Tile roofs require regular maintainance to ensure that the tiles are properly secured and any damage is proptly addressed. Between each row of tiles is mortor. If the mortor has cracks it will allow moisture to penetrate the roof decking (plywood) below it. The most common issues that I come across are cracked tiles, cracked mortor and failed fasteners. Failed fasteners or nails, create a costly repair for the homeowner. If fasteners fail, the tile will slide downward which puts additional stress on the lower tiles. What ultimately happens is all of the affected tiles will slide downward. I have included a photo that I took during an inspection of a slate tile roof. Here, the fasteners failed and the result was that the tiles slid downward. The spaces between the tiles allowed moisture to enter the underside roof. This area was above a covered porch. Most of the ceiling area of the covered porch has been destroyed by moisture. Now think about a case senario where the loose tile were above a living area. Repairs can get extremely costly. I can count on one hand the number of tile roofs that I have inspected and were properly maintained.
5. Limited color options: Some home owners may find that tile roofs have limited color options compaired to othe roofing materials.
6. Difficulties with installation: Installing or repairing tile roofs can be more challenging and time consuming compaired to other roffing materials.I hope this article was helpfull to you when trying to decide on what type of roof you would like.