Slipped roof tiles in Phoenix need attention because the gap they leave exposes the layer underneath, called underlayment, to direct sun and rain. A single slipped tile is usually a simple repair. But it is worth checking why it moved, because the cause can point to a bigger problem. All Valley Roofing, based in Tempe, repairs tile roofs across the Phoenix metro, and this is what we look for.
Why roof tiles slip
Concrete and clay tiles are heavy and sit in rows that hook or rest on battens and on each other. Several things can knock them out of place:
- Foot traffic. Satellite installers, solar crews, HVAC techs and holiday light hangers often step in the wrong place and crack or shift tiles.
- Broken fasteners. Nails or clips can rust or break over time.
- Wind. Strong monsoon gusts can lift edge tiles or ridge tiles.
- Aging underlayment. When the layer under the tile breaks down, battens and fasteners can shift with it.
- Cracked tiles. A cracked tile can slide as its pieces separate.
Why a slipped tile matters in Arizona
Concrete and clay tile can last 50 years or more. The underlayment beneath it usually fails first, often at 15 to 25 years. The tile is the first shield against sun and rain, and the underlayment is the real waterproof layer.
When a tile slips, the underlayment below it is exposed. Phoenix sun breaks down exposed underlayment quickly. The next storm can then push water straight through. That is how a small gap turns into a ceiling stain.
How to spot slipped tiles
From the ground, look for:
- A row that looks uneven or has a visible gap
- A tile sitting lower than its neighbors
- Broken pieces in the gutter or on the ground
- Tiles out of place near vents, skylights or solar mounts
Do not climb onto a tile roof to check. Tile breaks under a misplaced step, and it is easy to fall.
How we repair slipped tiles
A slipped-tile repair is usually a repair visit, not a new roof.
- Reset or replace the tile. If the tile is sound, we reset it. If it is cracked, we replace it and try to match the profile and color.
- Check the underlayment. We look at the layer under the gap for sun damage or tears.
- Check the parts nearby. Pipe boots, vent collars, flashing, sealant and nearby cracked tiles cause most tile leaks, so we check them on the same visit.
- Document it. Everything goes on your report with photos.
If the underlayment is worn across the roof, we may recommend lifting the tile, replacing the underlayment and putting your same tile back. See our tile roofing page.
Free Roof Report
Every job at All Valley Roofing starts with a Free Roof Report. We get on the roof, photograph what we find, and send you a full color PDF with plain-language notes and your options. It is yours to keep, even if you hire someone else. Roughly half the roofs we check do not need a new roof yet. Request one on our free roof report page.
FAQ
Can I push a slipped tile back myself?
We do not recommend it. Walking on tile often breaks more tile, and the underlayment under the gap may need repair.
Can you match old tiles?
Often, but some older shapes are no longer made. We tell you up front if a match is unlikely.
Do slipped tiles always mean a leak?
Not always, but they expose the underlayment, which can lead to leaks.
Which areas do you serve?
Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee and Queen Creek. See our areas page.
Request a Free Roof Report
We get on the roof, photograph what we find, and send you a full color PDF with plain-language notes and your options. It is yours to keep, even if you hire someone else.