Clay roof tiles are one of the most popular roofing materials in Australia and are known for their durability and hardiness against extreme weather conditions. Not only do they last a long time, but they’re an attractive choice that comes in various sizes and many colour options.
However, like any other roofing material, clay or terracotta tiles require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain in good condition.
Why Is Roof Maintenance Important?
No matter what type of roofing you have, whether it’s traditional tiles, asphalt shingles, or PVC, maintenance is important for several reasons:
- Longevity: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof, saving expensive roof-replacement costs down the road.
- Preventing damage: Identifying smaller issues early, like cracked or missing tiles, might avoid more extensive damage caused by water leaks or structural problems later in life.
- Curb appeal: Maintaining your roof will improve the look of your home, enhancing its curb appeal, as well as the overall value of the building.
- Energy efficiency: Keeping your roof in good condition helps maintain your insulation, regulating the temperature in your home and reducing your energy costs.
Can You Clean a Clay Roof?
Yes, you can and should clean your terracotta tile roof to prevent dirt, moss, lichen, and other raw materials from building up. Dirt on your roof can trap moisture on the tiles, leading to long-term damage over time. Moisture can cause leaks, which weaken your tiles.
How To Clean Clay Roof Tiles
Cleaning terracotta tiles requires care to avoid damaging the roof.
Here are our tips to clean your roof tiles:
1. Inspect Your Roof
Before starting, inspect your roof for any damage. Your inspection should include looking for cracked or missing tiles. You’ll need to replace or repair any broken tiles before cleaning.
If you’re not sure whether worn tiles need replacement or repair, it’s a good idea to consult a professional.
2. Clean Any Debris
After you take care of broken tiles, the next step is to remove any debris from your roof, like leaves, branches, and dirt. It’s especially important to clean debris after storms and after winter, even if you’re not aiming to clean your tiles thoroughly.
You can use a leaf blower or soft-bristle broom to gently clear debris without damaging the tiles.
3. Repoint Tiles
Repointing is an important process of renewing the mortar between your roof tiles to ensure they remain securely in place. Over time, mortar can deteriorate, leading to loose tiles. If you notice any loose tiles, then you’ll need to repoint them to ensure they don’t go missing in the next storm or heavy winds.
If you do need to repoint your tiles, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.
4. Apply Protective Layer
Once the tiles are cleaned and repaired, consider applying a protective sealant to protect the terracotta tiles from moisture, algae, and moss. This application can prolong the life of your roof and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
Clay Roof Tile Maintenance Tips
Doing it yourself? If you fancy yourself a handyman and want to save some money, cleaning your own terracotta tiles is an economical idea – and you might pick up some valuable skills. Remember to be careful when working at heights.
If you’re less confident about climbing up to your roof, consult a professional.
- Regular inspections: Make an effort to conduct your roof inspections at least twice a year, especially after harsh weather conditions, to catch any damage early. The best times for a roof health check are before and after winter.
- Cleaning gutters: Clean out your gutters regularly to prevent water from backing up and damaging your roof tiles. This will save you a lot of time, effort, and money down the line.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Use gentle, pH-neutral cleaning solutions to avoid stripping the natural protective layer on terracotta tiles.
- Trim nearby trees: Keep trees and branches away from your roof to prevent too much debris – or worse, whole branches – from falling onto your valuable terracotta tiles.
What Is the Benefit of Clay Tiles?
Terracotta roof tiles have been used for centuries, and Australian homeowners love them for many reasons:
- Durable: Terracotta tiles are incredibly long-lasting. They have a potential lifespan of up to 100 years when properly cared for. They’re fire-resistant and can withstand rot and insect damage, making them a reliable option for homes in harsh climates.
- Weather resistant: Terracotta tiles can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heat, heavy rain, and high winds. They’re also resistant to salt and corrosion, making them suitable for those in coastal areas.
- Energy efficient: Terracotta tiles have natural insulating properties that can help regulate the temperature inside your home. They reflect heat in the summer, keeping your home cooler, and provide insulation in the winter, helping to reduce energy costs.
- Low maintenance: Compared to other roofing materials, clay tiles require minimal upkeep. Regular inspections and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep them in good condition.
- Beauty: They’re available in a variety of colours and finishes. Whether you prefer a rustic, traditional look or something more modern, clay tiles offer versatility and add curb appeal to your home. Speak to design experts if you’re not sure whether terracotta tiles would suit your home and exterior walls.
- Eco-friendly: Clay tiles are made from natural, sustainable materials, making them an environmentally-friendly roofing option. They can also be recycled at the end of their lifespan, reducing waste.
Maintaining Clay Tiles
Terracotta roof tiles are known for being low maintenance, but like any roofing material, they still require regular upkeep to maximise their lifespan. Keeping your roof free from debris and addressing any problems promptly will extend the life of your roof to reach its full potential.
FAQs
Can You Clean Clay Roof Tiles?
Yes, terracotta roof tiles should be cleaned to prevent moss, algae, and debris from damaging your roof. Terracotta tiles are relatively fragile, so take care when cleaning each tile so as not to cause further harm.
Should You Pressure Wash a Clay Tile Roof?
Pressure washing terracotta roof tiles is not recommended, as the high-pressure water can crack or dislodge them. Instead, use a low-pressure wash, a garden hose, or a soft-bristle brush to clean the tiles.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Terracotta Roof Tiles?
Terracotta tiles can be cleaned with a soft brush and a gentle cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals and high-pressure washers that might harm the tiles, dislodge them, or remove their natural protective coating. You should also make sure to apply a protective sealant after cleaning to prevent moss and algae from building up.