Make sure to watch this video if you ever go on a tile roof! It will save you from breaking expensive concrete roof tiles.

DISCLOSURE: I’m not a roofer, I’m a Real Estate Broker. I do not recommend going on your roof, I only go on occasion to see what inspector is pointing out. I HIGHLY recommend you use a licensed roofer for any work you have done.

I had a friend call me. He had gone on his roof. He stepped on the profiled concrete tiles (curved / wavy tiles) only to hear them crack. He was absolutely sick about it and wondered if he could fix them. I’ll share more on that at the end of this article.

Watch video to see how we walk on tile roof

There are multiple types of roofs. Even multiple versions of tile roofs. I’m well versed in the different systems should you ever have questions. Here we will be discussing the curved / profiled concrete tile roofs and how to walk on them.

Spread your weight across two tiles

Keep your feet on TWO separate tiles. I am pretty light, under 150 lbs., so I can get away standing on one tile. However, it’s best to avoid putting all your weight on one tile by placing feet on separate tiles as in picture above.

Span the peaks of the tile

Notice how Ralph, the inspector’s, feet are spanning the crest of the tiles. The ball of the foot should be on one crest with the heal on the other.

DO NOT STEP on the valleys. These are the weakest part of profiled tiles.

Plant your feet as you walk

Make sure you foot is securely planted as you take each step. Common building practice is to only nail in a few tiles. That means most tiles are only secured by their weight. They can wiggle, even slide out at times.

Walking on flat tile roofs

Flat roof tiles are more forgiving. You do not have to worry about stepping in the valley between the arches as there is none. You still should mind your step though.

Flat tiles are strongest where they overlap the lower tile. It’s best to step on the lower lip which is supported underneath as apposed to the middle of the tile where it has the least support.

Fixing broken concrete tiles

Cracked concrete tiles are easy to fix. First it is important to understand most concrete tile roof systems do not hold back the water! They only shade and protect the water barrier underneath them.

Many times they can be glued back together with a clear silicone. Especially if they are not shattered. You can do the same for loose motors joints as well (watch video for more info).

More on tile roofs

I advise my clients to have a roofer check the roof every year. Make sure they look for broken tile as well as inspect the flashing, fascia, and mortar joints.

Tile roofs are one of the most sought after systems in Arizona. There’s a couple misconceptions I want to share with you though.

Misconception #1 Tile roofs last for life of house: the tile may last that long but the layer underneath that seals the roof does not. The underlayment, which holds back the water, dries out around 25 years at which point it might leak.

Misconception #2 Tile roofs are the most affordable system: this isn’t necessarily the case. They are one of the lowest maintenance systems making them desirable. However, it is the easily the most expensive system to replace underlayment on. Budget accordingly if you purchase a property with tile roof.

Tile roofs are beautiful. They are durable and one of the longest lasting between maintenance intervals. This makes them one of the most sought after roofing systems in Arizona where I work as a Real Estate Broker.

Call me when it comes time to move

I have been a full time Real Estate Agent since 2011. My background is in Engineering and I love learning how things work.

Nobody’s clients are better represented than mine. Here in Arizona we see asphalt shingles, membrane / flat roof systems, as well as the tile roofs. Each has it’s advantages and disadvantages. I have spent time to learn about the roof as well as all the systems for the clients I advise in the Real Estate Market.

Call me when it comes time for you to move and I’ll make sure you have an exceptional experience. Otherwise, feel free to ask me any questions you may have in the meantime.