If you live in Arizona, chances are your home has a beautiful tile roof. Tile is a popular choice because it stands up well to our desert climate, adds curb appeal, and can last 40–50 years or more. But there’s one important detail many homeowners overlook: the underlayment beneath the tile.
The tile you see is mostly decorative and protective from above, but it’s the underlayment that actually keeps water out of your home. Think of tile as the armor, and the underlayment as the shield underneath. Without a solid underlayment, even the most durable tile roof can fail.
In our hot, dry climate, underlayment typically lasts 15 to 20 years. While that may sound like a long time, it’s far less than the lifespan of the tile itself. That means at some point, almost every Arizona homeowner with a tile roof will face an underlayment replacement.
Why not longer? The answer is the extreme heat, sun exposure, and daily expansion and contraction cycles that Arizona roofs endure. Over time, the material dries out, becomes brittle, and eventually tears or breaks down. Once that happens, it no longer forms a watertight barrier.
Signs Your Underlayment May Be Failing
Most homeowners don’t see their underlayment, so problems can sneak up quietly. Here are some common warning signs:
- Leaks after heavy rain – Even small water spots on ceilings can mean underlayment issues.
- Tiles slipping or cracking – Shifting tiles can expose underlayment and accelerate damage.
- Exposed or torn underlayment – If tiles break or blow off, you may notice worn or frayed material beneath.
- Age of your roof – If your tile roof is 15–20 years old and has never had the underlayment replaced, it’s likely time for an inspection.
Waiting until leaks appear can be costly. Once water finds its way under old underlayment, it can damage decking, insulation, drywall, and even the structural integrity of your home.
Don’t wait until you have a bigger problem. Call TraVek Remodeling & Roofing and schedule a time for one of our Roofing Consultants to come check out your roof.
Contact Us Here or Call 480-367-1171.
It’s not just any roof; it’s a TraVek Roof!