Knowing how do you replace a roof tile is crucial for homeowners. Ignoring a damaged tile can cause big problems, like ugly green stuff growing on your roof or, worse, leaks. Water damage can seriously harm your home’s structure if not addressed promptly. If you’re feeling handy, we’ll walk you through how to spot a bad tile and replace it yourself. We’ll cover how to care for your roof, roof replacement costs, and more.
Signs Your Roof Tiles Need Replacing
Sometimes, it’s easy to spot roof problems – like a missing tile. But other times, things aren’t so obvious, such as when and how do you replace a roof tile. These are some signs your roof needs replacing:
- Leaks
- Cracks
- Holes
- Worn spots
- Old clay or slate tiles break
However, it’s not just about physical damage. Moss and mold can also be a problem. These not only look bad but can damage your roof. While you can usually clean off moss, sometimes replacing the tiles is the best fix.
Now, that we know the signs your roof tiles need replacement, let’s learn the steps!
How Do You Replace a Roof Tile
Replacing a roof tile is usually pretty straightforward. We’ll walk you through the steps for the most common types of tiles. However, before we learn how do you replace a roof tile, we should know the right material for roof replacement first.

Which material would you use to replace the roof tiles?
Your roof will work just fine with a different tile. However, to keep everything looking good, it’s important to find one that matches your old ones. Roof tiles come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors, so finding a perfect match can be tricky. Lucky for you, Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling has a huge selection, so you should be able to find a tile that blends right in with your roof. Contact us now!
Now, how do you replace a roof tile? Follow these steps for easy replacement:
1. Remove the broken tile
When you’re safely on your roof, start by removing the broken tile. How you do this depends on how the tile is attached and the condition of the tiles around it.
- How to replace roof tiles if the tile isn’t fixed? Use a hand trowel or pry bar to gently lift it out. You might need to use timber wedges to hold up the neighboring tile so you can slide the damaged one out without harming the others.
- How do you replace a roof tile in case a tile is nailed in place? First, remove the surrounding tiles to access the nails. Then, use a tool like a slate ripper to pull out the nails.
- If the tile is clipped, remove the clip before taking out the nails. Follow the same process as above to remove the nails.
- If several clipped tiles are broken, you might need to take up all tiles to the nearest edge. Have enough replacement tiles ready for this.
2. How are roof tiles fixed in place?
How do you replace a roof tile is often just reversing the removal steps.
- For unfixed tiles, slide the new tile into place with your trowel until it’s secure.
- For nailed tiles, position the new tile and fix it the same way as the others. Use adhesive on the head lap to attach it to the neighboring tiles.
- Replace any clips over the fixings to secure the new tile.
- How do you replace a roof tile if it’s nailed and clipped tiles? Mark where the fixing holes should go on the course below. Fit the new tile, then drill a hole through its bottom where it aligns with the hole on the tile below.
- Secure nailed and clipped tiles with a stainless-steel screw cap and washer for extra security and waterproofing. Use mastic roof tile repair sealant if needed.
3. Final inspection
While you’re up there, check the rest of your roof. Look for any damaged or worn tiles and plan to fix them soon.
Can you replace roof tiles yourself?
How to replace roof tiles yourself can be hard. However, by following the steps of how do you replace a roof tile and the right preparation, it can be a rewarding project for handy homeowners. If you don’t think you are up for it, seek the help of Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling immediately, and don’t worry about the costs!
How to remove roof tiles from inside?
How to replace a roof tile from inside or remove it? Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to replace a broken roof tile from underneath. If you’re not comfortable working at heights to replace the tile from the outside, it’s best to hire a qualified professional.

What Causes Roof Tile Failure?
After learning the steps of how do you replace a roof tile, it’s important to know their problems.
So, why can your roof tile fail?
- Your house shouldn’t be old to avoid the parts under the tiles wearing out
- Poor workmanship and improper installation of your roof tile
- Choosing the right tiles and creating all tiles equally matters too
- Foot traffic can crack the tiles, and damage the stuff underneath
Tile roofs are great, but they need a bit of care and attention. Make sure your house is ready for it, hire a good roofer like Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling, and choose the right tiles. And remember, try to stay off the roof!
How to Properly Replace Damaged Concrete Roof Tiles
How do you replace a roof tile in case it is plain tile, typically made of concrete or clay? These tiles aren’t usually nailed down in every row.
This allows you to follow the previously mentioned steps on how to replace clay roof tiles or concrete for damaged or cracked tiles.
- To remove a damaged concrete or clay tile, gently lift the surrounding tiles with a wooden wedge, making space to pull out the problematic tile from the batten.
- Carefully raise and slide out the damaged tile using a brick trowel or a similar tool, ensuring any nails or fasteners are removed first.
- How do you replace a roof tile and install a new tile? Reverse the process: slide the replacement tile into position and secure it as needed.
- If extra sealing is necessary, mastic or adhesive can be applied.
These are the steps of how to replace damaged concrete tiles. You can also learn how to replace shingles on roof with Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling and other kinds of roofs!
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Roof Tile?
There is no doubt that installing a tile roof is rather costly, yet it is worthwhile. Before you start getting the tools for how do you replace a roof tile, let’s first discuss the costs to consider beforehand. According to roofing experts, the cost you are likely to pay ranges between $8,000 to $23,000 on average depending on the size of your house. That breaks down to about $7 to $28 for every square foot of your roof. Keep in mind that the pricier materials will drive up the total cost to how do you replace a roof tile.
The roof tile replacement cost depends on three key factors:

Roof tile replacement cost by square foot
The larger the roof, the more you’ll pay for materials and labor. Costs range from $7 to $28 per square foot, with materials costing $2 to $10 per square foot and labor costing $5 to $18 per square foot. So, before you prepare for how do you replace a roof tile, check out its size first.
Roof Size | Average Installation Cost |
how much does it cost to replace a tile roof on a 1,500 square foot house | $10,500–$42,000 |
how much does it cost to replace a tile roof on a 2,200 square foot house | $14,000–$56,000 |
2,500 sq ft | $17,500–$70,000 |
3,000 sq ft | $21,000–$84,000 |
3,500 sq ft | $24,500–$98,000 |
Roof tile replacement cost by material
The type of tile you choose for how to replace a roof tile can cost between $2 to $10 per square foot. Clay tiles are more expensive than concrete ones due to their higher extraction and processing costs. Slate tiles cost more than clay because the extraction of stone requires a lot of effort to get the desired form and size.
Roof tile replacement cost by Style
Certain tile styles are more challenging to install, which increases the roof tile replacement cost. For example, how do you replace a roof tile with barrel tiles, you will pay more than plain tiles.
Tile Style | Average Cost (per Square Foot) |
Interlocking | $3–$5 |
Plain/Flat | $8–$9 |
Pantile | $8–$10 |
Spanish | $8–$10 |
French | $9–$11 |
Mission/Double Roman | $9–$11 |
Riviera | $9–$11 |
Barrel Tile | $10–$13 |
If you don’t have the budget to replace your roof, you can always turn to our guide on how to get roof replaced by insurance. Or you can contact us and we will guide you throughout the process!

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Tile Roof Installation
In addition to the factors we mentioned above, other factors affect the cost of how do you replace a roof tile.
Tile Roof Labor Cost
Labor costs account for roughly 60% of the project cost depending on the size which is from $5-$18 per square foot or $45-$75 per hour. Keep in mind that where you live and the shape of your roof will also affect the final bill.
Number of Vents and Boots
How do you replace a roof tile and install tiles around vents and boots is slightly more complicated than laying individual shingles and calls for more labor.
Roof Damage
Any damages that may be seen after the old roof removal will be added to the costs of replacement. Common repairs range from $900 to $2,500.
Geographic Location
Costs can vary significantly based on your location and local labor rates. Extreme weather conditions might also require additional waterproofing or insulation, affecting the cost.
Therefore, there’s no fixed number for roof replacement costs. If you want to learn how much does it cost to replace roof underlayment, full replacement, or the cost of replacing a few shingles, contact Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling!
How To Care For Your Tile Roof
If you want to avoid how do you replace a roof tile altogether, it’s essential to take care of your roof by:
- Give your roof an annual checkup and look it over for cracks, leaks, stains, or any signs of wear and tear.
- Clean your roof now and then gently with a simple solution without too much pressure to avoid damaging the tiles.
- Keep your roof clear and remove leaves and other debris that can clog your gutters and cause water to pool on your roof.
- Don’t ignore broken tiles so they won’t transform into bigger problems and contact a roof tile repair expert right away.
Keep these in mind to make the most of your roof and put on searching for how do you replace a roof tile for a while!
Pros and Cons of Tile Roofing
Let’s discover the pros and cons of tile roofing to help you prepare ahead:
Pros
- Built to last and can withstand extreme weather, from pounding hail to roaring winds
- Fireproof properties
- Eco-friendly, made from natural materials like clay and concrete
- Help keep your house at a steady temperature
- Low maintenance
Cons
- High installation costs
- Heavyweights, so your house needs to be able to handle the extra load
- Cracks easily if something heavy falls or someone accidentally walks on them
- Work on roofs that have a steep slope
If you’re thinking about a tile roof, it’s smart to talk to someone who knows their stuff. We can help you with some quotes or on how do you replace a roof tile.

How easy is it to replace roof tiles?
How to replace roof tiles can be quite daunting, especially if you’re not experienced with DIY projects. If heights make you nervous or you’re unsure about managing the task, it’s absolutely okay to hire a professional.
DIY Replacement Vs. Professional
Installing a tile roof is not a project that any homeowner with basic remodel knowledge should attempt. As with most construction jobs, it is advisable to let a professional handle the roofing project if you are not very experienced.
Why hire a professional?
- Skill and Experience: Tile roofs are tricky. They need special handling because the tiles are heavy and delicate. Experts understand the steps required on how do you replace a roof tile with precision and care.
- Roof Inspection: Prior to beginning the work, a professional will evaluate the roof’s ability to bear the tiles’ weight. They’ll make sure your roof is strong and sturdy, adding extra support if needed. Plus, they’ll take care of important stuff like keeping the air flowing and preventing leaks.
- Expenses and Guarantee: Though hiring a roof tile repair expert comes at a price (ranging between $5 and $18 per square foot), they frequently secure more favorable prices on materials. And, most importantly, they’ll usually offer a warranty on their work, giving you peace of mind on such a big investment.
DIY Dangers
Following the steps on how do you replace a roof tile and trying to install it yourself is like playing with fire. Replacing a roof tile is done with much danger, preparation, regulatory approvals, and equipment all required to complete the activity. One mistake can lead to injury, roof damage, or even problems inside your home. It’s just not worth the danger to save a bit of money.
Therefore, unless you are exceptionally skilled in roofing, it’s generally wise to leave this task to professionals.
The Local Roofing Company You Can Trust
After we have walked you through maintaining your tiled roof and how do you replace a roof tile, it’s time to choose. Installing a tile roof is a job for the professionals. It’s not just putting tiles on; it’s about measuring right, laying them out in the right pattern, and making sure no water gets in. If you’re unhappy with your DIY attempt at how to replace a roof tile, it’s crucial to bring in experts like Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling. For trustworthy advice and top-notch service, reach out to us to take care of it and ease your worries.
Get Your New Roof Tiles Installed Today
We’ve laid out a step-by-step guide to how do you replace a roof tile. But let’s be honest, roofing isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If DIY isn’t your thing or you’re not happy with the results, it might be time to call in the pros. Choosing Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling can spare you a lot of trouble and guarantee the work is done correctly from the start.
Conclusion
In short, if you enjoy do-it-yourself projects and are up for a bit of hard work, you can replace a roof tile yourself. It can be rewarding to take on such a task and save some money in the process. However, if you think you might need help on how do you replace a roof tile, we can get the job done. Whether you need to patch up a small problem or replace your entire roof, Quality Allied Roofing & Remodeling has got you covered.