When it comes to home maintenance, the roof isn’t always top of mind—until something goes wrong. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But your tiled roof works hard every single day, protecting your home from sun, wind, rain, and hail. And while tile roofs are known for their strength and longevity, they’re not immune to damage over time.
The good news is that many roofing problems give you warning signs before they become full-blown disasters. Catching these red flags early can help you avoid leaks, water damage, and costly repairs.
Here are five key signs your tiled roof might be in need of repair—and what to do if you spot them.
1. Cracked, Broken, or Missing Tiles
This one’s usually the most visible—and the easiest to overlook if you’re not actively checking. Over time, tiles can crack or shift due to temperature changes, debris from storms, or even animals scampering across your roof. And if one tile is broken, it’s often not alone.
Why it matters: Once a tile is compromised, it can no longer keep water out. Water seeps beneath the surface and starts damaging the underlayment, insulation, and eventually your ceilings and walls.
What to look for: Step outside after a storm or windy day and scan the roof. Do you see tiles that are askew, cracked, or completely missing? Check your yard or gutters for small tile fragments—those are signs that your roof might be crumbling in places.
What to do: Don’t assume a few broken tiles are “no big deal.” The sooner you replace or repair them, the less likely you’ll face a major leak.
2. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
If you’re noticing odd brownish or yellow stains inside your home, especially near the ceiling or in corners, that’s often a sign of a roof leak. Even if your tiled roof looks fine from the outside, water can sneak in through hairline cracks or damaged flashing.
Why it matters: These stains aren’t just an eyesore—they’re a clue that water is quietly damaging your drywall, insulation, and even electrical wiring.
What to look for: Keep an eye out for:
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
- Damp or musty odors in the attic
- Discoloration that gets worse after a rainstorm
What to do: Call a roofing professional to track down the source of the leak. It may not be directly above the stain—water can travel along rafters and beams before finally showing up inside your home.
3. Sagging Areas on the Roof
A tiled roof should have a nice, even slope. If you’re seeing any dips, curves, or uneven spots, it could be a warning that the structure underneath is compromised—usually due to long-term moisture damage or poor installation.
Why it matters: A sagging roof isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It could signal serious trouble with the decking, rafters, or internal supports. Left untreated, it can eventually lead to partial collapse.
What to look for: Walk across the street and take a good look at your roofline. Does it look symmetrical and straight? If not, it’s worth getting a professional opinion.
What to do: This is one of those signs that shouldn’t wait. Call a roofer right away—especially if the sag seems to be worsening.
4. Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth
We all love a little greenery in the garden—but not on the roof. Moss and algae may give your home that “quaint cottage” look, but they’re actually a sign of trouble. Moss holds moisture like a sponge, while algae can cause tiles to degrade faster.
Why it matters: Constant moisture creates the perfect environment for rot. Even though tile itself is water-resistant, what’s underneath it isn’t. Over time, that lingering dampness can lead to leaks and mold inside your home.
What to look for: Moss tends to grow in the shaded areas of your roof, especially on the north side or under tree cover. Algae shows up as dark streaks or patches. Mold might appear around vents or in the attic.
What to do: Don’t try to scrape or power wash it yourself—you can easily damage the tiles. Call a professional who can clean it safely and recommend treatments to prevent it from coming back.
5. Damaged or Loose Flashing
Flashing is the unsung hero of your roof. It’s the metal (usually aluminum or steel) that seals gaps around chimneys, vents, skylights, and edges. If it’s bent, rusted, or pulled away, water has a clear path into your home.
Why it matters: Flashing failures are one of the top causes of roof leaks—and they’re often hard to spot without a close inspection.
What to look for: After a big storm, especially one with hail or heavy winds, check your roof’s seams and edges. If anything looks uneven, lifted, or rusted, it’s time for a fix.
What to do: If you live in Central Texas, it’s a smart idea to schedule a hail damage roof inspection in Austin even if you don’t see obvious signs of damage. Professionals know exactly where to look for hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs later.
When to Bring in the Pros
You don’t have to be an expert to notice when something’s off with your roof—but you do need an expert to fix it properly. Tile roofs require special care, and DIY fixes can actually make things worse (not to mention void warranties).
If you’ve spotted any of the signs above, or if your roof hasn’t been inspected in a few years, it’s worth scheduling a professional checkup. Many reputable companies offer free inspections or storm damage assessments, and catching issues early often means smaller repairs and lower costs.
Bonus tip: Regular maintenance, like trimming nearby trees and keeping gutters clean, can go a long way in extending the life of your roof.
Protect What Matters Most
Your home is your family’s safe haven, and the roof is one of its most important protectors. By keeping an eye out for the early signs of tile damage, you’re taking simple but powerful steps to safeguard your home—and your peace of mind.
Whether it’s a missing tile or subtle water stains, don’t wait for the problem to get bigger. Call in the pros, fix the issue, and sleep easier knowing your roof is doing exactly what it should: keeping your home dry, safe, and strong.