"just gotta check things out after big storms and you're usually good."
Agreed, tile roofs are pretty durable overall, but a couple things I'd add from experience:
- Tiles themselves hold up great, but flashing and underlayment can wear out sooner.
- Debris buildup in valleys or gutters can cause water backup—worth checking regularly.
- Occasional cracked tiles happen; easy fix if caught early.
Still, compared to wood shakes especially, tile's definitely lower hassle long-term.
Tile roofs definitely have their perks, but calling them "basically maintenance-free" might be stretching it a bit. Sure, they're durable and can handle storms well, but I've seen plenty of tile roofs that looked fine from the outside yet had hidden issues underneath. The underlayment especially can deteriorate over time, even if the tiles themselves are pristine. Once that happens, you're looking at leaks and water damage before you even realize there's a problem.
Also, cracked tiles aren't always as obvious or easy to spot as people think. I've had neighbors who didn't notice a cracked tile until water stains started appearing on their ceilings—by then, repairs were way more expensive. Regular inspections are key, but let's not underestimate how sneaky some of these issues can be.
Personally, I'm a big fan of green roofs—plants and vegetation provide natural insulation, absorb rainfall, and actually protect your roof structure better in the long run. They do require some upkeep too, of course...but the environmental benefits and long-term durability make it worth considering over traditional tile.
Tile roofs are solid, but I wouldn't dismiss them too quickly. I've managed properties with both tile and green roofs, and honestly, green roofs can be a bit of a headache if you're not prepared. Sure, they're eco-friendly and look amazing, but they need regular attention—watering during dry spells, weeding, checking drainage systems...it's definitely not a set-it-and-forget-it situation.
With tile roofs, yeah, the underlayment can be an issue, but if you schedule regular inspections every couple of years, you usually catch problems early enough to avoid major damage. Cracked tiles can be sneaky for sure, but a quick drone inspection once in a while can spot those easily enough.
I guess it comes down to what kind of maintenance you're comfortable with. Tile roofs aren't maintenance-free by any means, but compared to the ongoing care green roofs require, they're still pretty low-maintenance overall.
You're spot on about green roofs needing more TLC than most people realize. I've inspected plenty of tile roofs, and honestly, they're pretty forgiving if you stay on top of inspections. A drone check every year or two can save a lot of headaches down the road...
