In this guide

Tile Roof Repair Cost by Material

The cost of repairing a tile roof is influenced by the material selected. The cost of roofing materials varies according to the type of roof. Some roofs require more materials and labor compared to others. The least expensive material option is concrete tiles. Clay or composite tiles are in the middle of the cost scale. The table below lists the most popular types of tile materials available and their repair cost per square feet.

Concrete Tile Roof Repair Cost

Concrete tiles are a very popular, budget-friendly option when it comes to selecting a material for your roof. In addition to a cost-effective price, concrete tiles require little maintenance, offer good fire protection, have a long lifespan of up to 50 years, and are lightweight, preventing many common structural problems.

Some common reasons why concrete tiles need repair include cracking, sliding out, wear and tear, or even nature. If any of these problems are not addressed promptly, it leads to other problems. The repair process for concrete tiles includes first determining the scale of damage. Small holes or cracks can be filled with a roofing cement for sealing. If the tiles are damaged and need replacing, a professional can lift the damaged tiles with a crowbar and slide the new tiles into place. The new tiles can be adhered to the roof using a Polyf. The cost to repair a concrete tile roof is $8 to $20 per sq.ft., including labor costs.

Clay Tile Roof Repair Cost

Clay tiles come in a wide range of shapes, patterns, and colors and are commonly installed in an S pattern, overlapping one another. These tiles are often seen in historic buildings due to their longevity, wealth of color, and long-lasting appearance over time.

The process for repairing clay roofing can be difficult as you cannot re-mount the tile in the same fashion as it was when initially installed. If the tile roofing requires replacement, then the new pieces can be slid into place and locked in using epoxy ³, concrete mortar ⁴, or cement to hold the replacement piece in place. If a tile is simply cracked, it doesn’t need to be removed but can be patched using cement or silicone caulking ⁵. The cost to repair a clay tile roof is $9 to $20.50 per sq. ft., including labor costs.

Metal Tile Roof Repair

Metal tiles are a great option and provide many benefits, including durability, little maintenance, easy installation, energy-efficiency, and longer warranties.

When damage occurs to a metal roof, repairs are more difficult since most metal roofs are designed in sheets and need to be replaced that way. If you have holes or leaks without widespread damage to the shingles ⁶, they can be patched using a few materials and little labor. Sheet metal patches are cut, fit to size, and placed over the holes requiring repair. A color-matched sealant is used to press the patch in place.

Extensive damage to one or more roof shingles requires shingle replacement. The shingles should be the same size as the pre-existing shingles and fastened only around the perimeter, leaving the panels room to expand with the changing temperatures.´The cost to repair a metal tile roof is $9 to $23 per sq.ft., including labor costs.

Composite Tile Roof Repair

Composite roofing ⁷ is a mixture of many materials, including plastic, wood, asphalt, and laminate, to name a few. This combination of materials forms a long-lasting shingle that can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years. While composite shingles offer great durability, it doesn’t mean that they are not prone to any damage. Extreme weather conditions or damage from natural causes create very high chances that you may experience some damage to your shingles.

If your shingles experience extreme damage that cannot be repaired, then the shingles will have to be removed. A hammer claw or crowbar is necessary to lift the composite shingles, carefully removing them from the adhesive. Torn or cracked shingles are easier to fix and require a simple repair. A layer of roofing sealant can be applied under the crack to seal the opening. Over time, your shingles become vulnerable to curling that requires repair. A caulking gun can be used to apply a sealant to the corners of the shingle. A heavy object can hold the shingle in place until it dries. The cost to repair a terracotta tile roof is $10 to $20.50 per sq.ft., including labor costs.

Terracotta Tile Roof Restoration

Terracotta is a roofing material that has been used for thousands of years by the Greeks and Romans. Terracotta tiles are made out of a natural clay material that is fired at a high temperature until it fuses. The advantages of using this type of material include its low maintenance, fireproof quality, longevity of up to 100 years or more, environmentally-friendly, durability, and attractive appearance.

Repairing terracotta tiles requires experienced, trained contractors. They are quite difficult to install and must be properly installed to prevent damage due to rain, freezing, or severe weather. The tiles are installed using a horizontal or vertical overlap so that water does not penetrate between the gaps. Tile repair involves sealing the gaps of pre-existing tiles using cement or mortar or repairing by replacing a damaged tile, which includes removing the existing tile and replacing it by sliding the new tile under and lowering the other tile on top. The cost to repair a terracotta tile roof is $11 to $23 per sq. ft., including labor costs.

Cost of Tile Roof Repair by Style

When doing your research, you notice the various styles of tile roofing available on the market. All styles vary in appearance, texture, and cost. The style of the tile roof is a factor that also affects the price you pay. Simple styles like flat shakes cost less while Roman tile styles cost more. Below is a chart comparing the cost of repairing tile roofing by style.

Plain Tile Roof

A plain tile roof, also commonly referred to as a flat tile roof, is the most common roof and is installed on homes all over the world. Its traditional look and versatility make it easy to install on different property styles and pitches. The plain tiles are flat to avoid trapping rainwater. The advantages of plain tile roofs are that they are cost-effective, versatile, and easily installed in any pattern. While they have many advantages, the disadvantage is that they are not as decorative as other tile roofs. Plain tile roofs are easy to repair using a cement or mortar mixture. If the damage is too extensive and requires replacement, a crowbar can lift the tile, and a new tile can replace it. The cost to repair plain tiles is $8 to $9 per sq.ft, including the material.

Pantile Roofs

A pantile roof is a single-lap, S-shape, roof tile made of fired clay. Single lap refers to the bottom edge of any pantile tile that only overlaps the row right below it. This style creates a rippling visual effect and is lighter than other tile options. An advantage of these tiles is that they come in many different styles and patterns. However, higher profiles are likely to be fragile and prone to damage. Pantile tiles should be repaired using lime mortar and not cement. Cement makes it difficult to repair the tiles and negatively affect this type of softer tile. When replacing is required, the pantiles should be very similar to the colour, shape, and dimension of the pre-existing tiles to maintain the visual appearance and allow the replacement tile to link properly with the existing roof. The cost to repair Pantile tiles is $8-$10 per sq.ft, including the material.

Spanish Tile Roof Repair

Spanish or Mediterranean tile styles are most commonly seen in homes in the South and come in the shape of an “S.” Their appearance is similar to rows of waves. This style is ideal for regions that experience heavy rainfalls. These tiles are beneficial because one tile acts as an upper and lower portion, which saves time and labor. You have to be careful when working with these fragile tiles. They are made out of clay. If you notice any small cracks in the membrane, a membrane patch can be used over the surface to create a seal. For tiles that need patching, a mortar can be applied to any broken or cracked areas. This improves the life of the tiles. If the tiles are completely damaged, it is best to replace them with new ones. They can be replaced one at a time and simply attached to the roof membrane. The cost to repair Spanish/Mediterranean tiles is $8.50 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

Mission Tile Roof

Mission tiles, also commonly referred to as “Double Roman” tiles, have a very distinct and obvious pattern. These tiles are very popular in the Mediterranean and offer a smaller water course look, but with more of them. Mission tiles can be used as ridge caps due to their shape and size. Some disadvantages include their difficulty to install. The tiles must both face up and down to create the repetitive pattern. Concrete or mortar can be used to repair damaged mission tiles. If there is more extensive damage, a crowbar can be used to lift the tile that needs replacing. The cost to repair Mission tiles is $8.50 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

Roman Tile Roof

Roman roof tiles offer a classic design patterned from Rome’s ancient monumental buildings, composed of round caps and flat pans. This style may have single or double curves similar to the Spanish “S” shaped tile. Many different curve styles or heights are available. You have to be careful with Roman tiles as they are fragile, especially when using a higher profile. If you are experiencing cracks or damages to a few tiles, they can be repaired using concrete or mortar. If the damage is extensive and your tiles need replacing, the installation process is fast and easy. Each piece can be removed using a crowbar. The new tile is installed by interlocking into another and comes with pre-drilled alignment marks. The cost to repair Roman tiles is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

French Tile Roof

French tiles, also referred to as “Profile” tiles, are very similar to Double Roman, but in a reversed manner. Instead of humps, the tiles have indents, which help with water runoff. These tiles were designed back in 1850 by a group of French brothers and are very popular in France and throughout Europe. French tiles are very durable, tightly fitted tiles. They require special roof caps and edge pieces to install. Common repairs for French tile roofs include tile replacement, underlayment replacement, and corrosion. The cost to repair French tiles is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

Interlocking Tile Roof

Interlocking roof tiles are connected by side joints that join together each tile on the roof. These interlocking tiles can be smooth or granular and laid in a single lap, enhancing the roof’s strength. The easy locking technology makes the installation of this roof a much easier process. The advantages of interlocking roofs are their classic appearance and that they can be easily found in stone-coated metal. Interlocking tiles can be difficult to find in all materials, such as concrete. Repairing or replacing these types of roof tiles can be a simple process. Repairing these tiles can be done using a mortar or by disconnecting them from surrounding tiles using a crowbar. The new tiles go back into place and are screwed down. The cost to repair interlocking tiles is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

Riviera Tile Roof

Riviera style tiles are very similar to mission design, but this style is semi-flat, with a rigid tile that is very intricate. This roof style is a good option if you prefer a repeating design with a dramatic shading pattern. A pro of riviera tiles is that it creates a symmetrical looking roof with classic lines and deep shadows. The con is that they are hard to find. Some common problems with these tiles that require repair include slippage and cracking. The cost to repair riviera roof tiles is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material.

Slate Tile Roof Repair

Slate tiles are a natural stone product with a unique, beautiful appearance. They have many upsides making them a popular option. These tiles have exceptional longevity, fire-resistance, and are environmentally-friendly. Some of the most notable cons of slate tile roofing include their heavy weight, fragility, and lack of quality installation options. Many contractors do not have extensive knowledge of slate tile installation. Slate tiles can be an easy maintenance and care option for roofing; however, when problems arise with these tiles, fixing them can be difficult. When repairing slate tile roofs, roofers need to use a ripper to cut through the nails. Many safety measures are involved in the repair process. The cost to repair a slate tile roof is $12 to $14 per sq.ft, including the material.

Scandinavian Tile Roof

Scandinavian tile roofs consist of a scalloped shaped tile that curves down rather than up. They have a very European appearance and are found throughout parts of Europe. The advantage of this style of roof is that its unique design is very different from others. They are difficult to find and more expensive, which can be a disadvantage of these tiles. The cost to repair interlocking tiles is $12 to $14 per sq.ft, including the material.

Tile Roof Repair Cost by Problem

Your roof is a big investment that carries out the vital function of protecting you and all of your valuables. Ignoring any little problem today can lead to huge problems later on. Some common problems include roof leaks, sagging roof, slipped roof tiles, cracked roof tiles, and damaged flashing. The underlying problem determines how much you will have to pay for the repair. The table below illustrates these common problems and repair costs.

Slipped Roof Tile

Strong storms can cause your roof tiles to dislodge and slip due to wind and rain. If it is only a few tiles, then this is an easy repair job. A more serious issue occurs if you find that the tiles slipped due to wood corrosion from an infestation or water damage. If you think you have an issue due to tile slippage, have a professional roof company inspect your roof. The average cost to repair slipped roof tiles ranges between $8 and $13 per sq.ft.

Tile Roof Leak Repair Cost

A tile roof leak requires immediate attention. Even the smallest leak can turn out to be something very damaging to your roof. These leaks can lead to structural problems inside your home. Depending on the issue, the average cost to repair a simple roof leak is $10 to $150.

The cause of the roof leak determines how much the repairs cost. While some are a quick fix, others can be a warning of a major problem. The table below illustrates some common causes of roof leaks, their solutions, and cost.

Sagging Roof Repair Cost

A sagging roof is a common problem that occurs when snow or water has been resting on a low-sloped roof for an extended time. This causes not only the shingles to be damaged but all of the structure. A sagging roof is unstable and unsafe and can lead to serious problems if not fixed. If the affected area is small, only a minor repair job is required. If the affected area is large, it can be quite a big repair job. A sagging roof can be repaired by a roofing company and can cost anywhere between $15 and $25 per sq. ft. for both the materials and labor.

Damaged Flashing Repair

Roof flashing is a material, usually made out of steel, used to direct water away from important areas of the roof. If the roofing flashing is damaged, you can experience a roof leak. Many serious problems may ensue. A new strip of flashing can be secured into place using nails to resolve this issue. This costs approximately $25.

Cracked Roof Tile

If you notice a crack in your roof tile, it is a good idea to fix it immediately. If ignored, this can lead to major problems in the future, including roof leaks. The most common causes of roof cracks include severe weather, protruding nails, and foot traffic. The cost to repair a cracked roof tile can be as low as $25 to $50 per tile or as high as $175, with labor and other materials including sealing and fastening.

Tile Roof Repair Labor Cost

A professional roofer can be hired to complete roof repairs. They will charge $45 to $75 per hour on average for labor to complete the job. Labor costs increase if you have an unusual roof style or if the slope is steeper than average. The repair process starts with a visual inspection of the roof to determine the issue and the necessary repairs. A repair plan will be discussed and may involve replacing full sections of the roof, including the underlayment. Sometimes just smaller sections of the roof may require repair. The repair needed directly affects the project’s cost and duration. Even the smallest of repairs take at least two hours to complete.

Roof repairs vary, but an average cost to repair a tile roof is $900 to $2,300. When your roof requires major repairs, the cost increases considerably. The labor accounts for 60% of the total cost, and the materials make up the remaining 40%.

Tile Roof Restoration Cost

Tile roof restoration is the process designed to increase your roof’s longevity, giving you a cheaper option than a full roof replacement. Over time, roof tiles can be damaged by many factors, including severe weather, infestation, or falling debris. This process involves cleaning and repairing or replacing any broken, damaged, or cracked tiles. Then, a sealer is applied. Small tile roof restoration jobs such as cleaning the gutters can average in cost between $300 and $600 depending on the size of your roof. A full tile restoration costs approximately $2,500 for an average home. Depending on what is done, the prices go up to $11,000.

Roof Tile Replacement Cost

While tile roof replacement can be an expensive project, there are some cases where it is better to replace the roof than repair it. If your estimated cost to repair is more than half the price of replacement, then you may want to consider a full replacement instead. There are many benefits to consider about a roof replacement, including having all issues corrected at once. If you decide to repair one area of your roof, another area might need repair later on. In this case, replacing your roof saves you money in the long run.

The average cost of redoing a tile roof ranges from $12 to $35 per sq.ft. The cost of replacement includes removing the existing roof, disposing of the old roof, underlayment, materials, and installation.

Tile Roof Underlayment Replacement Cost

Underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier laid underneath roofing tiles to seal the roof, protecting it from severe weather. If your roof needs some repair or replacement, then it is likely that you will need to replace the old underlayment as well, especially if your roof is older. Having a sturdy underlayment in place is extremely important in protecting your roof if damaged and can prevent many severe problems from occurring, including leaks. The cost to replace an underlayment is $0.50 to $0.90 per sq.ft. depending on the type of material.

You can select from a few underlayment options. Most roofers include the underlayment in the project cost, but it is always good to double-check. The chart below lists the most common types of underlayment and their cost.

Roofing Felt Replacement

Roofing felt, also referred to as asphalt-saturated felt, is one of the first types of underlayment material used by builders and architects for decades. The material is functionally similar to that of tar paper but is a combination of polyester, cellulose, bitumen, and asphalt, soaked in a waterproofing agent. It comes in two thicknesses: 15 pounds and 30 pounds. The 30-pound type is thicker and stiffer than the 15-pound type. So, the 30-pound felt is a good option because it resists damage from outside elements.

Roofing felt has many advantages. This low-cost option is easy to install using basic tools and provides an excellent seepage barrier. This is easily repaired and flexible. While there are many advantages, there are also disadvantages, including its short lifespan compared to other roofing underlayments, its susceptibility to weather damage, and repairs that are not aesthetically pleasing.

If the underlayment is damaged or has lived out the course of its lifespan, it is time for a replacement. The cost to replace roofing felt underlayment is $0.50 to $0.70 per sq.ft, including the materials and labor.

Synthetic Roof Underlayment

Synthetic underlayment is the go-to underlayment used by professionals today. This underlayment is made from hard-wearing plastics such as polypropylene or polyethylene and is saturated in asphalt. This underlayment is inherently resistant to mold and other fungi and displays exceptional strength, elasticity, and waterproofing. It holds up well against UV damage and light. This tear-resistant product stays smooth and rarely tears around fasteners.

While the underlayment has many benefits, it has some drawbacks. Since this is a newer type of material, it requires caps and cap nails to install instead of common tools like stapes and roofing nails. Synthetic underlayment might not meet the building requirements. Because it isn’t standardized, different manufacturers make the products differently. This affects the roofing warranties meaning certain issues might not be covered. Finally, if the underlayment is not properly secured, it might experience water issues due to its impenetrability.

If the underlayment is damaged or exposed for too long, it needs to be replaced. The cost to replace synthetic underlayment is $0.75 to $0.90 per sq.ft, including the materials and labor.

Roof Tile Maintenance

A tile roof is designed to last for several years and can withstand the harshest weather conditions. Your tile roof should be maintained and given modest care. You should inspect your roof occasionally or following major storms. During the inspection, remove any debris and check the condition of the tiles, fasteners, and sealant. If there are any damaged sections, then appropriate measures should be taken immediately to reduce other issues. Anytime you notice stains, mold, or mildew forming, you should clean your roof. The process of cleaning a roof should be done by hand using a trowel and wire brush. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, contact a professional. Do not pressure wash your roof. This causes extreme roof damage. Once your roof is clean, you can take some additional steps to maintain your roof, including buffing, priming, painting, or resealing to keep it in good condition.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Roof Removal Cost

There are some cases in which you can shingle over the old roof. In other cases, the old roof must first be removed. Removing shingles can be a big task. You should hire a professional company if you have no experience or knowledge of the job. It can be a tough job working on the slopes of a roof with many tools involved. Removing a roof costs approximately $1.40 per sq.ft., which includes the removal and disposal. For roofs with more than one layer of shingles, you can expect to pay double this amount.

Roof Tiles Paint Prices

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your roof, giving it a completely new look and style. Roof painting can be a great home improvement project to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. Tile paint can be applied to almost any type of roofing material. Typically, painters charge around $49 per hour for roof tile painting. This amount varies according to location, materials, type of roof, and condition of the tiles.

Roof Support

Roof supports are an essential part of any roof that keeps the structure stable and prevents it from collapsing or warping over time. If you suspect your roof is in danger, it is critical to evacuate and contact a roofing professional for immediate repairs. The three most common support problems include a sagging roof, sagging floor, or too many ridges. The cost to repair any roof support problems range from $15 to $40 per sq.ft.

Roof Inspection

A roof inspection is an important process in identifying any potential problems and solutions to issues. An inspection determines the condition and longevity of the roof and any repairs or replacements needed. Your roof should be inspected occasionally, especially following major storms. The average cost for a roof inspection is $350. This cost can vary depending on size, roof material, pitch, and roof condition.

Tile Roof Cleaning Cost

Roofing is exposed to many elements and severe weather. Over time, you will experience a build-up of debris, stains, mold, and algae. If not cleaned, this leads to damage and issues in the long run. For this reason, it is important to have your roof cleaned occasionally by a professional company. Tile roofing is very delicate and should be cleaned using a gentle touch. The national average cost for tile roof cleaning is between $450 and $700.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Flashing: Pieces of sheet metal used on roofs to cover joints, such as where the roof meets the wall, or around a chimney or skylight, to protect them and prevent water leaking through

³ Epoxy: An adhesive, plastic, paint, or other material made from polymers containing epoxide groups. Epoxy is best used for bonding or for creating a protective coating

⁴ Mortar: A mixture of Portland cement or lime or a combination of both, sand, and water used to bind bricks, stones, and concrete masonry units together

⁵ Caulking: A chemical sealant used to fill in and seal gaps where two materials join, for example, the tub and tile, to create a watertight and airtight seal. The term "caulking" is also used to refer to the process of applying this type of sealant

⁶ Shingles: A smooth, uniform, flat piece of construction material, available in a wide variety of materials and laid in a series of overlapping rows, used to cover the outside of roofs or walls to protect against weather damage and leaks.