Spotting Problems Before They Worsen
Roof tiles are designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and long-lasting — but they’re not invincible. Over time, various factors can cause even the most well-installed tiles to slip, crack, or dislodge altogether. For homeowners in Wroughton and across Wiltshire, understanding what causes this kind of damage is key to preventing costly repairs and protecting the long-term health of your roof.
At LJ Roofing Wroughton, we regularly help property owners address tile issues before they escalate into major leaks or structural concerns. Below, we outline six of the most common causes of slipped or cracked roof tiles and explain why professional attention is often the safest route forward.
1. Ageing Mortar and Roof Bedding
One of the most common causes of tile slippage is simply age. Traditional roof tiles are often fixed into place with mortar — a sand and cement mixture that acts as the bed and adhesive for ridge, hip, and verge tiles. Over time, this mortar can dry out, crumble, and lose its grip.
Signs of mortar deterioration:
- Loose or missing ridge or hip tiles
- Cracks visible along mortar lines
- Debris collecting in gutters or at ground level
- Tiles visibly shifting out of line
As the mortar weakens, tiles become vulnerable to slipping, particularly in windy or rainy conditions. Professional re-bedding or repointing is often required to restore a secure fit.
2. Extreme Weather Conditions
Roof tiles are built to withstand the elements, but extreme weather — particularly sudden changes in temperature — can cause unexpected damage. Heavy storms, strong winds, or even extended frost periods can place stress on fixings, forcing tiles to move or crack.
How weather contributes to tile damage:
- Wind uplift can dislodge poorly secured tiles
- Freeze-thaw cycles cause small cracks to expand
- Hail or falling debris can directly crack the surface
- Heavy rain may expose weaknesses in underlay or fastenings
In areas like Wroughton, where weather can shift dramatically across seasons, regular roof inspections are advisable to catch weather-related damage early.
3. Poor Installation Techniques
Not all roofs are created equal — and unfortunately, rushed or substandard installation can lead to future problems. If tiles weren’t properly aligned, fixed, or bedded in the first place, they’re far more likely to move over time.
Common installation errors include:
- Incorrect spacing between tiles
- Inadequate nailing or clipping
- Using unsuitable mortar or adhesive
- Misalignment of roof battens
At LJ Roofing Wroughton, we often see problems emerge within a few years of poorly completed work. Having a roof installed by experienced professionals helps avoid these costly oversights.
4. Foot Traffic and Physical Impact
Walking on a tiled roof may seem harmless, but it’s a leading cause of cracked or displaced tiles. Roof tiles aren’t designed to bear heavy weight or concentrated pressure. Even a single misplaced step can crack a tile, especially if it’s already weather-worn.
Situations where foot traffic causes issues:
- DIY repairs or chimney work without proper protection
- Solar panel or aerial installations
- Surveyors or tradespeople walking across fragile areas
- Tree branches or other falling objects during storms
Always ensure anyone accessing your roof does so safely, using walk boards or roof ladders where necessary.
5. Inadequate Roof Ventilation
Ventilation may not seem directly linked to cracked or slipped tiles, but it’s a hidden factor worth noting. Poor airflow beneath your roof covering can lead to condensation, which in turn softens timber battens and encourages the growth of moss or algae.
This build-up can dislodge tiles from below or cause them to warp slightly over time.
How poor ventilation affects your roof:
- Increases moisture in the loft space
- Encourages timber decay around tile fixings
- Leads to thermal stress on tiles in hot weather
- Promotes moss growth which can lift or crack tiles
Improving ventilation helps prevent long-term deterioration that eventually affects the surface layer of your roof.
6. Moss and Lichen Growth
Moss may seem harmless, but when it begins to take hold on a tiled roof, it can cause serious damage over time. Moss retains water, increases the weight on tiles, and lifts edges as it grows between joints. This process can cause tiles to crack or become misaligned — particularly older clay or concrete tiles.
Problems caused by moss on roof tiles:
- Retains moisture, accelerating frost damage
- Lifts tiles and breaks down mortar
- Blocks water channels, leading to leaks
- Increases surface load on the roof structure
Professional cleaning and regular maintenance can keep moss under control and extend the life of your roof.
Conclusion
Slipped or cracked roof tiles might seem like minor issues, but left unattended, they can lead to leaks, insulation damage, and even structural deterioration. Understanding what causes these problems — whether it’s ageing mortar, storm damage, or installation faults — allows you to act before things get worse.
At LJ Roofing Wroughton, we help homeowners across Wroughton and Wiltshire keep their roofs safe, secure, and weather-ready. Whether you’ve spotted a few loose tiles or need a full inspection, our expert team is here to provide honest advice and reliable solutions. Don’t wait for the next storm — protect your roofline today with experienced care that delivers lasting results.
Call us on: 01793 569 293
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