Quick Answer
Alright, so here's the deal with busted roof tiles. You've got a crack, a slipped tile, or a whole chunk missing. Nine times out of ten, it’s from a tree branch, hail, foot traffic, or simple aging. This lets water sneak underneath, which is bad news. Real bad. A single tile fix might only cost you $20-60 in materials if you do it yourself. But if you call a pro, expect to pay at least $200-300 just for them to show up as a minimum service charge, and more for the actual repair. Ignore it, and you're looking at thousands in interior water damage and structural issues. Don't ignore it.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Start with a safe, ground-level inspection using binoculars to scan the entire roof.
Step 2
If accessible, inspect your attic for signs of water intrusion like stains on the decking or damp insulation.
Step 3
Using a properly secured ladder, get a closer look at suspect tiles without getting on the roof if possible.
Step 4
Examine the extent of the crack or what caused a tile to slip (e.g., failed fastener).
Step 5
Check the condition of the underlayment visible beneath the damaged tile; if it's torn or brittle, the problem is more serious.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Replacing a Single Broken Tile | $20-60 | $250 - $600 | 1-2 hours |
Re-securing a Slipped Tile | $10-25 | $200 - $500 | < 1 hour |
Minor Section (5-10 tiles) | $100-300 | $1000 - $2500+ | 4-8 hours (a day) |
When to Call a Professional Roofing
- You count more than 4-5 damaged tiles across different areas.
- You can see that the black underlayment beneath the tile is torn or looks damaged.
- Your roof is very steep (generally anything over a 6/12 pitch) or more than one story high.
- You already have signs of a leak inside your house, like a ceiling stain.
- You can't find an exact matching tile for the repair.
- You're not 100% comfortable working on a ladder or a roof.
Prevention Tips
- Keep overhanging tree branches trimmed well away from the roof.
- Perform a visual inspection from the ground twice a year and after any severe storm.
- Tell other contractors (satellite, HVAC) to stay off the roof or use a qualified roofer for access.
- Keep your gutters clean to prevent water backup and ice dams.
Frequently Asked Questions
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