| Tile lifespan | 40–50+ years |
|---|---|
| Underlayment lifespan | About 20–25 years |
| Main fix | Lift-and-relay: new underlayment, same tiles |
| Breakage allowance | Extra tile sourced and color-matched |
| Time on site | 3–6 working days for most homes |
Why is my tile roof leaking if the tiles aren't broken?
Because the tile isn't the waterproof layer; the underlayment under it is. Tile sheds most water and shades the roof, but some water always gets underneath. The felt or synthetic underlayment, flashings and battens below are what keep it out of the house. After about 20–25 years of Valley heat, that layer dries, cracks and fails, often around valleys, chimneys and the lower edge of the roof. (Source: Brava Roof Tile)
What is a lift-and-relay (re-felt)?
It's a new roof under your existing tiles. We remove and stack the tiles, replace the underlayment, flashings and any damaged battens, then relay the same tiles. You keep the look of the house, avoid buying new tile, and reset the clock on the layer that actually keeps water out.
- Inspect and count broken tiles; source a color-matched breakage allowance.
- Pull permit; strip tile in sections and stack it on the roof.
- Replace underlayment and flashing; repair decking where needed.
- Relay tile, replacing broken pieces; reset ridge and hip.
- City final inspection and written warranty.
Concrete tile or clay tile: what's the difference?
| Concrete tile | Clay tile | |
|---|---|---|
| Common on | Most 1990s–2000s Valley subdivisions | Spanish and Mediterranean homes |
| Weight | Heavy | Slightly lighter in most profiles |
| Color | Surface color can fade with UV | Fired color; holds longer |
| Installed cost (CA, 2025) | $8.50–$20 per sq ft | $10–$20 per sq ft |
Costs: Fixr California data, 2025, for full installation. Lift-and-relay pricing depends on tile profile and breakage, so we quote it after inspection.
Can I walk on my tile roof?
It's best not to. Concrete and clay tiles crack under point loads, especially in the middle of the tile. Many "mystery" leaks start where someone walked the roof to clean gutters or install a satellite dish. Our crews step only on the lower third of each tile, over the batten.
Related guide: Tile roof leaking? Why the underlayment, not the tile, is usually the problem
Where we provide tile roof repair & underlayment
We serve homes and businesses within 50 miles of Modesto, including Modesto, Ceres, Riverbank, Salida, Oakdale, Turlock, Patterson, Manteca, Tracy, Stockton. See all service areas.