How much does it cost to repair tile roof?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Tile roofing is expected to last a lifetime. However, sometimes it needs to be repaired due to leaks caused by slipping, cracked, or sagging, damaged flashing, or a worn-out underlayment. Getting the repairs done as soon as possible is very important. Damage gets progressively worse if not fixed. They have their own repair costs and considerations that are different from other types, which is why it is important to understand this material specifically when it needs repair.

The national average cost for repairing a tile roof is between $900 and $2,300. Most people pay around $1,800 to repair a 10-foot x 10-foot area of damaged steel tiles in a 1,500 sq. ft. roof. At the low end of the spectrum, you pay around $500 to repair metal flashing that is damaged or missing. At the high end, you could pay up to $8,000 to repair worn underlayment and then replace the roof.

Tile Roof Repair Price

Tile Roof Repair Cost by Material

Repairing a tiled roof ranges from $8 to $23 per sq.ft. and is influenced by the material. The price of materials varies according to the type in question. Some types require more materials and labor compared to others. The least expensive material option is concrete, and clay or composite are in the middle of the cost scale. The table below lists the most popular types of materials available and their repair price per square foot.

Concrete Tile Roof Repair

The price to repair concrete tiling is $8 to $20 per sq.ft., including labor costs. Concrete options are a very popular, budget-friendly option when it comes to selecting a material for your home. In addition to a cost-effective price, concrete materials 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 they 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 includes first determining the scale of damage. Small holes or cracks can be filled with cement for sealing. If the materials are damaged and need replacing, a professional can lift the damaged material with a crowbar and slide the new ones into place.

Clay Tile Roof Repair

The price to repair clay tiling is $9 to $20.50 per sq.ft., including labor costs. Clay options come in a wide range of shapes, patterns, and colors and are commonly installed in an S pattern, overlapping one another. These options are often seen in historic buildings due to their longevity, wealth of color, and long-lasting appearance over time. The process for repairing clay can be difficult as you cannot re-mount the materials in the same fashion as it was when initially installed. If the materials require replacement, then the new pieces can be slid into place and locked in using epoxy, concrete mortar, or cement to hold the replacement piece in place. If the materials are simply cracked, it doesn’t need to be removed but can be patched using cement or silicone caulking.

Metal Tile Roof Repair

The price to repair metal tiling is $9 to $23 per sq.ft., including labor costs. Metal is a great option and provides many benefits, including durability, little maintenance, easy installation, energy efficiency, and longer warranties. When damage occurs to metal, repairs are more difficult since most metal options are designed in sheets and need to be replaced that way. If you have holes or leaks without widespread damage to the shingles, 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 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.

Composite Tile Roof Repair

The price to repair composite tiling is $10 to $20.50 per sq.ft., including labor costs. Composite, as the name suggests, is comprised of several materials. Some include wood, asphalt, laminate, and plastic. 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 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.

Terracotta Tile Roof Restoration

The price to repair terracotta tiling is $11 to $23 per sq.ft., including labor costs. Terracotta is a material that has been used for thousands of years by the Greeks and Romans. Terracotta is 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, environmental friendliness, durability, and attractive appearance.

Repairing terracotta 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. Repair involves sealing the gaps of pre-existing tiling using cement or mortar or repairing by replacing a damaged surface, which includes removing the existing materials and replacing it by sliding the new material under and lowering the other material on top.

Slate Tile Roof Repair

The price to repair slate is $12 to$14 per sq.ft, including the material. Slate tiles are a natural stone product with a unique, beautiful appearance. They have many upsides making them a popular option. These options have exceptional longevity, fire-resistance, and are environmentally friendly. Slate does not have many cons. However, when their downfalls are discussed, they typically include how fragile the materials are, their weight and their effect on the surface, and the lack of available installers with the proper experience. Many contractors do not have extensive knowledge of slate installation. Slate can be an easy maintenance and care option; however, when problems arise, fixing them can be difficult. When repairing slate, professionals need to use a ripper to cut through the nails. Many safety measures are involved in the repair process.

Cost of Tile Roof Repair by Style

The style affects the price of repair, which ranges from $8 to $14 per sq.ft. depending on the style of tiling used. When doing your research, you will notice the various styles available on the market. All styles vary in appearance, texture, and cost. The style is a factor that also affects the price you pay. Simple styles like flat cost less while Roman styles cost more. Below is a chart comparing the cost of repairing different styles.

Plain Tile Roof

The price to repair plain tiling is $8 to $9 per sq.ft, including the material. This type, also commonly referred to as flat, is the most common type 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. They are flat to avoid trapping rainwater. Their advantages 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 types. They are easy to repair using a cement or mortar mixture. If the damage is too extensive and requires replacement, a crowbar can lift the material, and a new material can replace it.

Pantile Roofs

The price to repair Pantile tiling is $8 to $10 per sq.ft, including the material. Pantiles are a single-lap, S-shape, tile made of fired clay. Single lap refers to the bottom edge of any pantile tiling that only overlaps the row right below it. This lighter material offers a cool rippling effect, creating unique visual appeal. An advantage of them is that they come in many different styles and patterns. However, higher profiles are likely to be fragile and prone to damage. Pantiles should be repaired using lime mortar and not cement. Cement makes it difficult to repair the surface and negatively affects this type of softer material. When replacement is required, the pantiles should be very similar to the color, shape, and dimension of the pre-existing surfaces to maintain the visual appearance and allow the replacement unit to link properly with the existing ones.

Spanish Tile Roof Repair

To repair Spanish or Mediterranean tiling, you will spend $8.50 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. Spanish and Mediterranean options are more common in the Southern and Southwestern US. Their “S” shape often gives the appearance of waves flowing across the surface. This style is ideal for regions that experience heavy rainfalls. These options 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 materials. They are made out of clay, so they can only hold up to so much stress. If there are cracks in the surface (membrane), you can purchase and apply a membrane seal as a temporary fix to prevent leaks and further damage. When they need patching, a mortar can be applied to any broken or cracked areas. This improves the life of the material. If the materials 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 membrane.

Mission Tile Roof

The price to repair Mission tiling is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. Mission options, also commonly referred to as “Double Roman” tiling, have a very distinct and obvious pattern. These tiles are very popular in the Mediterranean and offer a smaller watercourse look, but with more of them. Mission options can be used as ridge caps due to their shape and size. Some disadvantages include their difficulty to install. They must both face up and down to create the repetitive pattern. Concrete or mortar can be used to repair damaged ones. If there is more extensive damage, a crowbar can be used to lift the tiling that needs replacing.

Roman Tile Roof

The price to repair Roman tiling is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. Roman options 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” shape. Many different curve styles or heights are available. You have to be careful with Roman tiling as they are fragile, especially when using a higher profile. If there is only damage to a few of your tiles, or you have small cracks, repairs are possible. Mortar or concrete is available specifically for repairs that can provide temporary protection. If the damage is extensive and your tiling need replacing, the installation process is fast and easy. Each piece can be removed using a crowbar. The new tiling is installed by interlocking into another and comes with pre-drilled alignment marks.

French Tile Roof

The price to repair French tiling is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. French options, also referred to as “Profile” tiling, are very similar to Double Roman, but in a reversed manner. Instead of humps, they have indents, which help with water runoff. They 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 and tightly fitted. They require special caps and edge pieces to install. Commonly, they need corrosion repairs, underlayment repair or replacement, and replacement.

Interlocking Tile Roof

The price to repair interlocking tiling is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. These interlock, thanks to joints on the sides that connect them as they are installed. These interlocking tiling can be smooth or granular and laid in a single lap, enhancing the structure’s strength. The easy locking technology makes the installation of this type a much easier process. Their advantages are their classic appearance and that they can be easily found in stone-coated metal. Interlocking options can be difficult to find in all materials, such as concrete. Repairing or replacing this type of structure can be a simple process. You will want to disconnect them from the other tiles with a crowbar or similar prying instrument. Then, you can make repairs with mortar designed for this material. The new materials go back into place and are screwed down.

Riviera Tile Roof

The price to repair riviera tiles is $9 to $11 per sq.ft, including the material. Riviera style is very similar to mission design, but this style is semi-flat, with a rigid material that is very intricate. This 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 surface with classic lines and deep shadows. The con is that they are hard to find. Some common problems with these options that require repair include slippage and cracking.

Scandinavian Tile Roof

You can expect to spend $12 to $14 per sq.ft. to repair Scandinavian tiling. They are 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 is that its unique design is very different from others. They are difficult to find and more expensive, which can be a disadvantage of this option.

Tile Roof Repair Cost by Problem

The average price of tile repair by problem ranges between $8 to $25 per sq.ft. and $25 to $500 per problem, depending on whether you’re paying by the square foot or the project and what problem needs to be repaired. Your structure 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 leaks, sagging, slipped tiling, cracked tiling, and damaged flashing. The total price of the repair depends on the underlying issue. The table below illustrates these common problems and repair costs.

Slipped Roof Tile

The average price to repair slipped tiling ranges between $8 and $13 per sq.ft. Strong storms can cause your materials 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 materials slipped due to wood corrosion from an infestation or water damage. If you think you have an issue due to slippage, have a professional company inspect your surface.

Sagging Roof Repair

Sagging can be repaired and have a price anywhere between $15 and $25 per sq.ft. for materials and labor. Low-slope options are prone to sagging, which typically results from water, snow, or ice sitting on the surface for an extended period, creating too much excess weight. This causes not only the shingles to be damaged but all of the structure. A sagging structure 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.

Damaged Flashing Repair

Damaged flashing costs $25 to $30 per strip of flashing to replace, which is usually a better option than a repair. Flashing is a material, usually made out of steel, designed to direct water away from important areas. If flashing is damaged, you can experience a leak. Many serious problems may ensue if the issue is not resolved promptly, as well. A new strip of flashing can be secured into place using nails to resolve this issue.

Cracked Roof Tile

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

Tile Roof Leak Repair

Depending on the issue, the average price to repair a simple leak ranges from $150 to $500, with materials and labor included. This depends on the location and type of leak and how severe it may be. For example, a leak in the middle that involves a few loose tiles costs significantly less than a leak in the valley where the tiling and joint need to be inspected, repaired, and/or replaced. More than one issue is usually present, so the typical repair may include multiple locations, impacting the price. And as always, the longer you wait, the more severe the damage will get, and the more costly the repair becomes.

Tile Roof Repair Labor Cost

You can expect to spend about $540 to $1,380, or 60% of the total repair price of $900 to $2,300, while materials make up the other 40%. A professional can be hired to complete repairs at $45 to $75 per hour for labor. Labor costs increase if you have an unusual style or if the slope is steeper than average. The repair process starts with a visual inspection of the structure to determine the issue and the necessary repairs. Then, they will discuss a repair plan, which may involve removing and replacing sections that are damaged. Sometimes just smaller sections 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.

Tile Roof Restoration Cost

Small restoration jobs, such as cleaning the gutters, can average between $300 and $600, depending on the size of your structure. However, a full restoration costs approximately $2,500 for an average home. Depending on what is done, the prices go up to $11,000. Restoration is the process designed to increase your structure's longevity, giving you a cheaper option than a full replacement. Over time, 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 surface. Then, a sealer is applied, protecting your surface and reducing the risk of future damage.

Roof Tile Replacement Cost

If you need to replace the materials, you can expect to spend around $5.50 to $36 per sq.ft. The cost of replacement includes removing the existing materials and disposing of the old ones, underlayment, materials, and installation. Although it can seem expensive to replace tiles, it is sometimes a more effective solution than repair. If your estimated price 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 replacement, including having all issues corrected at once. If you decide to repair one area of your structure, another area might need repair later on. In this case, replacing your structure saves you money in the long run.

Tile Roof Underlayment Replacement Cost

The price to replace an underlayment is $0.50 to $2 per sq.ft., depending on the type of material. Underlayment is the barrier between tiles and the deck to seal the surface and protect from water damage, weather-related leaks and damage, and more. If your structure needs some repair or replacement, then it is likely that you will need to replace the old underlayment as well, especially if your structure is older. Having a sturdy underlayment in place is extremely important in protecting your structure if damaged and can prevent many severe problems from occurring, including leaks. Most professionals include the underlayment in the project price, but it is always good to double-check. The chart below lists the most common types of underlayment and their price.

Roofing Felt Replacement

The price to replace felt underlayment is $0.50 to $1 per sq.ft, including the materials and labor. 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.

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 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.

Synthetic Roof Underlayment

The price to replace synthetic underlayment is $0.75 to $2 per sq.ft, including the materials and labor. If the underlayment is damaged or exposed for too long, it needs to be replaced. Synthetic underlayment is the go-to underlayment used by professionals today. Synthetic underlayment is saturated with asphalt and is typically comprised of harder plastics like polyethylene or polypropylene. 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 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 nails. Synthetic underlayment might not meet the building requirements. Because it isn’t standardized, different manufacturers make the products differently. That also impacts warranties because some issues might not be covered since there is no “standard” manufacturing process. Finally, if the underlayment is not properly secured, it might experience water issues due to its impenetrability.

Roof Tile Maintenance

Tile is designed to last for several years and can withstand the harshest weather conditions. Your structure should be maintained and given modest care. It should be inspected at least two or three times a year or anytime there is a major storm or weather event that may have caused damage. 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 them. The process of cleaning 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 the structure. This causes extreme damage. Once your surface is clean, you can take some additional steps to maintain your structure, including buffing, priming, painting, or resealing to keep it in good condition.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Roof Removal

Removal costs approximately $0.50 to $1.50 per sq.ft., including the removal and disposal. For structures with more than one layer of tiles, you can expect to pay double this amount. There are some cases in which you can shingle over the old structure. In other cases, the old structure must first be removed, such as if there are too many layers or if the underlayment or deck is damaged and needs to be repaired. Removing tiles 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 with many tools involved.

Roof Tiles Paint

Typically, painters charge around $2,550 to $4,250 for painting. This amount varies according to location, materials, type of structure, and condition of the materials. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home, giving it a completely new look and style. Painting can be a great home improvement project to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. Paint can be applied to almost any type of material, giving you a great visual boost for a fraction of the price of a new one.

Roof Support

The price to repair any support problems ranges from $300 to $5,000, depending on exactly what is wrong and what repairs or replacements need to be made. If you need entire trusses replaced, those range from $500 to $5,000 to have installed. Supports are an essential part of any structure that keeps the structure stable and prevents it from collapsing or warping over time. If you think there might be serious damage or that it could be dangerous, leave your home and call a professional immediately. The three most common support problems include sagging or too many ridges.

Roof Inspection

The average price for an inspection is between $100 and $600. This price varies depending on size, material, pitch, and current condition. An inspection is an important process in identifying any potential problems and solutions to issues. An inspection determines the condition and longevity of the structure and any repairs or replacements needed. Your structure should be inspected occasionally, especially following major storms.

Tile Roof Cleaning

The national average price for cleaning is between $0.30 and $0.75 per sq.ft. 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 surface cleaned occasionally by a professional company. Tile is very delicate and should be cleaned using a gentle touch.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Lifespan. Tiles, especially those made of clay and concrete, are among the most cost-effective choices due to their long lifespan. They last for 50 to 100 years or more, outlasting almost all other materials. Most companies offer warranties for 50 years.
• Care. If your structure is not properly cared for and maintained, it will experience further damage and can eventually impact the contents inside the home.
• DIY. Unless you have extensive knowledge and experience, you should not attempt this project yourself. If the material is not installed properly, this leads to serious issues down the road.