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Is it true tile roofs are basically maintenance-free?

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Posts: 4
(@zfire40)
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- Had a similar experience with hidden water damage under tiles—looked fine from below, but the plywood underneath was a mess.
- Agree synthetic underlayments are easier to handle, but I've also heard mixed things about UV exposure. A roofer I trust said they're great if installed promptly, but delays can cause issues.
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"Tiles looked perfect from the yard, but turns out water had been quietly wreaking havoc underneath."
Exactly why regular inspections are key. Even tile roofs aren't truly maintenance-free.
- Curious if anyone's tried breathable membranes under tiles? Supposedly they help moisture escape and reduce hidden damage, but haven't seen them in action yet.
- Bottom line: tile roofs are durable, sure, but "maintenance-free" might be overselling it a bit...

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astronomy236
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(@astronomy236)
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Had similar thoughts myself—tile roofs are great, but definitely not "set and forget." I've heard good things about breathable membranes, but they always seem pricier. Anyone know if they're actually worth the extra cost long-term? I'm all for avoiding hidden water nightmares, but my wallet has limits...

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Posts: 6
(@fashion_jennifer)
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Tile roofs definitely aren't maintenance-free, but they're still a solid choice if you stay on top of things. About breathable membranes—yeah, they're pricier upfront, but here's the deal: they can save you headaches (and cash) down the line. Standard felt underlays tend to trap moisture, especially if tiles crack or shift slightly over time. Breathable membranes let moisture escape, reducing the risk of hidden mold or rot issues.

If you're looking at long-term value, think about your local climate first. In wetter areas, breathable membranes are almost always worth it because moisture buildup is a constant battle. In drier climates, you might get away with standard underlays if you're diligent about regular inspections and quick repairs.

Personally, I've seen a few roofs where homeowners skimped on underlay quality and ended up paying way more later to fix water damage. So yeah, it's an investment—but one that usually pays off if you're planning to stick around for a while.

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mmeow46
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(@mmeow46)
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Yeah, tile roofs definitely need some upkeep. Had a client once who ignored cracked tiles for years... ended up with moisture trapped under cheap felt. Cost him way more than if he'd just checked things regularly and invested in better underlay from the start.

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hiking_holly
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(@hiking_holly)
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Tile roofs aren't exactly maintenance-free, true, but the underlay isn't always the main culprit. I've seen cases where even premium felt trapped moisture due to poor attic ventilation. Proper airflow matters just as much as quality materials... sometimes more.

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