Broken tile repair across Oahu. Fix cracked, sliding, and damaged roof tiles. Expert tile matching. Best roofer Hawaii. Insurance claim assistance. Free inspection.
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Tile roofs are a signature feature of Hawaii homes. From classic Monier concrete tiles to traditional clay barrel tiles to modern synthetic options, tile roofing offers durability, beauty, and excellent performance in our tropical climate. When properly maintained, a tile roof can last 50 years or more.
But tile roofs aren't indestructible. Cracked tiles, sliding tiles, and damaged underlayment are common problems that need prompt attention to prevent water damage and preserve your roof's integrity. If you're searching for a roofer near me to fix broken tiles, you need someone who understands tile roofing and can match your existing materials.
Longevity: Tile roofs are built to last. While asphalt shingles may need replacement every 20-30 years, quality tile roofs routinely last 50 years or longer. The tiles themselves can last even longer than that, with the underlayment typically being the component that needs replacement first.
Durability: Concrete and clay tiles resist fire, rot, and insect damage. They hold up well against Hawaii's salt air and intense UV exposure. A properly installed tile roof can withstand winds of 150 mph or higher, making them excellent protection during tropical storms.
Energy Efficiency: The thermal mass of tile roofing helps regulate attic temperatures. Tiles absorb heat slowly during the day and release it slowly at night, reducing temperature swings and easing the load on your AC. The air gap between tiles and underlayment also provides natural ventilation.
Aesthetic Appeal: Tile roofs add character and curb appeal to Hawaii homes. Whether you prefer the Mediterranean look of barrel tiles, the clean lines of flat tiles, or the textured appearance of shake-profile tiles, there's a tile style that complements your home's architecture.
Property Value: A well-maintained tile roof is a selling point. Buyers recognize the quality and longevity of tile roofing, and a tile roof in good condition adds value to your home.
Understanding what damages tiles helps you prevent future problems and identify when repairs are needed:
Wind Damage: Hawaii's trade winds are constant, and stronger gusts from storms and Kona winds can lift, shift, or crack tiles. Wind doesn't have to break a tile to cause problems. Tiles that shift out of position expose the underlayment to UV damage and water intrusion. After any significant wind event, your tile roof should be inspected for displaced tiles.
Foot Traffic: Walking on a tile roof is one of the most common causes of cracked tiles. Contractors servicing solar panels, satellite dishes, AC units, or performing other roof work can crack tiles if they don't know how to walk on tile properly. Even homeowners retrieving a frisbee or cleaning gutters can cause damage. Always use a qualified professional who understands tile roof walking techniques.
Falling Debris: Branches, coconuts, and other debris can crack tiles on impact. Homes with overhanging trees are particularly vulnerable. Trimming back branches that overhang your roof reduces this risk, but Hawaii's storms can send debris from neighboring properties as well.
Age and Weathering: Over decades, even durable tiles experience wear. Concrete tiles can develop surface erosion. Clay tiles can become brittle. The constant expansion and contraction from Hawaii's temperature swings stress tiles over time. Older tiles are more susceptible to cracking from impacts that newer tiles would survive.
Improper Installation: Tiles that weren't properly fastened or aligned during original installation are more likely to shift and crack over time. Poor quality underlayment can deteriorate prematurely, causing tiles to settle unevenly and crack under stress.
Thermal Movement: Tiles expand and contract with temperature changes. Properly installed tiles accommodate this movement, but tiles that are too tightly fitted or improperly fastened can crack as they expand against each other or their fasteners.
Previous Repairs: Ironically, poor quality previous repairs are a common source of tile problems. Tiles replaced with non-matching products, repairs made with inappropriate sealants, or work done by contractors unfamiliar with tile roofing often create new problems while trying to fix old ones.
We handle all types of tile roof damage, from single cracked tiles to extensive storm damage:
Cracked Tiles: Hairline cracks may seem minor, but they allow water penetration that damages underlayment and roof deck over time. We replace cracked tiles with matching replacements to restore your roof's watertight integrity. Even small cracks warrant attention before they become bigger problems.
Broken Tiles: Tiles that have broken into pieces from impact or stress need immediate replacement. Missing tile sections expose your roof to water damage and can allow wind to lift adjacent tiles. We carefully remove broken pieces and install matching replacements.
Sliding Tiles: Tiles that have slipped out of position expose the underlayment and create gaps where water can enter. Sliding tiles may indicate fastener failure, underlayment problems, or improper original installation. We reposition or replace affected tiles and address the underlying cause.
Lifted Tiles: Wind can lift tiles without breaking them, but lifted tiles are no longer sealed against water intrusion. We reseat lifted tiles, replace any damaged fasteners, and ensure proper alignment with surrounding tiles.
Chipped Tiles: Edge chips from debris impact or foot traffic may not immediately cause leaks, but they weaken the tile and provide entry points for moisture over time. Depending on severity, we can seal minor chips or replace significantly damaged tiles.
Eroded Tiles: Concrete tiles can develop surface erosion over decades, exposing the aggregate beneath the surface coating. While cosmetic at first, significant erosion reduces waterproofing and tile strength. We can apply protective coatings to slow erosion or replace severely affected tiles.
Failed Flashings: The metal flashings around tile roof penetrations, valleys, and edges deteriorate over time. Failed flashings cause leaks even when tiles are intact. We repair or replace flashings using materials compatible with tile roofing and Hawaii's salt air environment.
One of the biggest challenges in tile roof repair is finding replacement tiles that match your existing roof. Mismatched tiles are obvious and detract from your home's appearance. We take tile matching seriously:
Monier Concrete Tiles: Monier tiles are among the most common on Oahu homes, installed on thousands of properties from the 1970s through the 2000s. Unfortunately, Monier tiles are now discontinued, making matching a challenge for many homeowners. We maintain access to a stockpile of Monier tiles in various profiles and colors specifically for repair situations. If you don't have extra tiles stored in your garage, we can likely source matching Monier tiles for your repair. This stockpile is a significant advantage over contractors who can only offer non-matching substitutes.
Concrete Tiles: Beyond Monier, many concrete tile brands have been used across Oahu over the decades. Eagle, Boral, and other manufacturers have produced flat, low-profile, and high-profile concrete tiles in numerous colors. We identify your specific concrete tile and source appropriate matches from current production or salvage sources.
Clay Tiles: Traditional clay tiles offer a classic look and exceptional longevity. Clay barrel tiles, S-tiles, and flat clay tiles are found on homes throughout Oahu, from historic Honolulu properties to newer custom construction. Clay tiles are more fragile than concrete and require experienced handling during repairs. We work with contractors skilled in clay tile repair and source replacement clay tiles that match your existing installation.
Synthetic Tiles: Modern synthetic tiles made from polymer, rubber, or composite materials offer the look of traditional tile with lighter weight and different performance characteristics. Brands like DaVinci, Brava, and others produce synthetic tiles that mimic slate, shake, and barrel tile appearances. We work with these newer materials and source replacements from current production.
Lightweight Tiles: Some Oahu homes, particularly those with structural limitations or flat-to-low-slope roof sections, use lightweight tile products. These tiles require specific installation methods and matching replacement products. We identify your lightweight tile type and source appropriate materials.
Profile Matching: Roof tiles come in dozens of profiles including flat, low profile, medium profile, high profile, barrel, S-tile, and shake patterns. We identify your exact tile profile and source replacements that fit properly with your existing tiles.
Color Matching: Tile colors fade and weather over time. A brand-new tile next to a 20-year-old tile will look different even if they're the same product. We source tiles from salvage when possible, use weathering techniques to blend new tiles, and position replacement tiles strategically to minimize visual contrast.
Material Matching: Concrete tiles and clay tiles have different properties and appearances. Mixing materials on the same roof creates problems with fit, appearance, and performance. We identify your tile material and source appropriate replacements.
Manufacturer Matching: Different manufacturers' tiles, even in similar profiles, may have slightly different dimensions. We identify your tile manufacturer when possible and source replacements from the same source for the best fit.
Salvage Tiles and Stockpile Access: For discontinued tile styles like Monier or when exact matching is critical, we have significant advantages over typical contractors. Our Monier tile stockpile means we can repair roofs that other companies say can't be matched. For other discontinued profiles, we maintain relationships with salvage sources and can often locate tiles from demolished buildings that match older installations. Salvage tiles that have weathered naturally blend better with existing aged tiles than new production.
Strategic Placement: When perfect matching isn't possible, strategic placement of replacement tiles can minimize visual impact. Tiles on less visible roof sections can be relocated to prominent areas, with new tiles installed in the less visible locations.
Whether you need a single tile replaced or extensive storm damage repaired, we serve homeowners across the entire island:
Mililani and Mililani Mauka: Many Mililani homes feature concrete tile roofs installed when the community was developed in the 1970s and 1980s. These roofs are now 40-50 years old, and while the tiles may have decades of life remaining, individual tile damage from storms and foot traffic is common. We help Mililani homeowners maintain their tile roofs and navigate insurance claims for storm damage.
Ewa Beach and Kapolei: West Oahu's newer communities feature a mix of tile styles, from flat profile concrete to barrel-shaped clay tiles. The intense afternoon sun accelerates surface weathering, and periodic Kona winds can shift or crack tiles. We work with the full range of tile types found in Ewa Beach and Kapolei neighborhoods.
Pearl City and Waipahu: Established neighborhoods in Pearl City and Waipahu have diverse tile roof styles reflecting decades of construction. Older tile roofs may have discontinued tile profiles that require salvage sourcing for proper matching. We have experience finding replacement tiles for even obscure older profiles.
North Shore (Haleiwa, Kahuku, Laie): Coastal exposure means North Shore tile roofs face salt air, powerful winter winds, and debris from storms. Tile fasteners and flashings corrode faster in the coastal environment, and we use appropriate materials for lasting repairs. We also source tiles rated for high-wind coastal applications.
Kaneohe and Kailua: The Windward side's higher rainfall makes watertight tile installation especially important. Cracked or displaced tiles that might be low priority in drier areas need prompt attention in Kaneohe and Kailua to prevent water damage. We prioritize proper underlayment and flashing work alongside tile replacement.
Waianae Coast: Extreme sun exposure accelerates tile surface wear along the Waianae Coast. We see more erosion and UV damage to tiles in this area and can recommend protective coatings to extend tile life. When replacement is needed, we source tiles rated for high UV environments.
Honolulu and Hawaii Kai: From historic homes with original clay tiles to modern construction with designer concrete profiles, Honolulu's varied architecture means diverse tile matching challenges. HOA requirements for appearance and materials add another layer of complexity. We navigate these requirements and source appropriate replacement tiles for any Honolulu neighborhood.
Storm damage to roof tiles is typically covered by homeowners insurance. If wind, debris, or other covered events damaged your tiles, you may be able to file a claim rather than paying out of pocket.
What's Typically Covered: Tiles cracked or broken by wind-blown debris, tiles displaced or lifted by high winds, and water damage resulting from storm-damaged tiles are generally covered by standard homeowners policies. The key is documenting that damage resulted from a specific weather event rather than gradual wear or foot traffic.
Full Roof Replacement Potential: Here's what many homeowners don't realize: if storm damage affects enough tiles and matching replacements aren't available, your insurance may be required to pay for a full roof replacement to maintain uniform appearance. This "matching" requirement varies by policy and carrier, but we've helped homeowners get full roof replacements approved when partial repairs would result in a patchwork appearance.
Our Documentation Process: We inspect your tile roof and document all storm-related damage with photos, measurements, and detailed notes. We identify which tiles are damaged, document the cause, and note any matching challenges. This thorough documentation supports your insurance claim and helps adjusters understand the full scope of repairs needed.
Claim Filing Assistance: We help you file your claim correctly and can meet with your insurance adjuster to walk them through our findings. Having a knowledgeable advocate present ensures tile damage is properly assessed and matching requirements are considered.
Supplemental Claims: Initial insurance estimates often undercount tile damage because adjusters may not walk the entire roof or may miss hairline cracks. We can file supplemental claims when additional damage is discovered during repairs, ensuring you receive full coverage for all storm-related damage.
We work with all major insurance carriers serving Oahu homeowners:
State Farm. Allstate. FICOH (First Insurance Company of Hawaii). Island Insurance. DTRIC. And all other Hawaii homeowners insurance providers.
Each insurance company has different documentation requirements, matching policies, and claim processes. Our experience working with these carriers means we know what they're looking for and how to present your claim for the best chance of approval.
Understanding Your Coverage: Many Oahu homeowners with older policies have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage that pays for repairs or replacement without depreciation. This matters particularly for tile roofs where individual tiles may be decades old. We help you understand your policy's coverage for tile roof repairs.
The Matching Question: Insurance policies typically require that repairs match the existing roof in appearance and quality. When exact tile matches aren't available, this provision can work in your favor. We document matching challenges and advocate for coverage that maintains your roof's uniform appearance.
Understanding what happens during a tile repair helps you know what to expect:
Inspection: We start with a thorough inspection of your tile roof, walking the entire surface to identify all damaged, cracked, displaced, and worn tiles. We document our findings with photos and notes, including close-ups of damage and wide shots showing affected areas in context.
Tile Identification: We identify your tile profile, material, manufacturer if possible, and color. This information guides our sourcing of replacement tiles. If your tiles are discontinued or unusual, we begin salvage searches immediately.
Tile Sourcing: We locate replacement tiles that match your existing roof. This may involve ordering from current production, sourcing from salvage suppliers, or in some cases relocating tiles from less visible roof sections to maintain appearance in prominent areas.
Underlayment Assessment: While addressing tile damage, we assess the condition of underlying materials. If underlayment is deteriorated or deck is damaged, these issues should be addressed along with tile replacement. We provide honest recommendations about underlying conditions.
Repair Work: Our licensed contractors carefully remove damaged tiles, inspect and repair underlayment as needed, and install replacement tiles according to manufacturer specifications. Proper technique is essential to avoid damaging surrounding tiles during the repair process.
Flashing and Sealant: We inspect and repair flashings around penetrations and at roof edges. Any sealant work uses products compatible with tile roofing and rated for Hawaii's UV exposure. Improper sealants can cause more problems than they solve.
Final Inspection: After repairs are complete, we verify that replacement tiles are properly seated, aligned, and fastened. We check for proper water shedding and document the completed work for your records and warranty purposes.
Repair timelines vary based on tile sourcing and scope of work. Simple repairs with available tiles can be completed in a day. Repairs requiring salvage tiles or extensive underlayment work may take longer.
Proper maintenance extends your tile roof's life and prevents costly repairs:
Regular Inspections: Annual inspections catch small problems before they become big ones. After any significant storm, inspect for displaced or damaged tiles. Professional inspections every few years provide expert assessment of overall roof condition.
Debris Removal: Keep your roof clear of fallen branches, leaves, and other debris. Debris holds moisture against tiles and underlayment, accelerating wear. It can also clog valleys and gutters, causing water backup.
Tree Trimming: Cut back branches that overhang your roof. Falling branches are a major source of tile damage, and overhanging limbs also drop leaves and debris. Maintain clearance of at least 6-10 feet when possible.
Gutter Maintenance: Keep gutters clear so water flows off your roof properly. Backed-up gutters can force water under tiles at the roof edge, damaging underlayment and fascia.
Professional Foot Traffic: When contractors need roof access for solar, satellite, HVAC, or other work, ensure they know how to walk on tile properly. Improper foot traffic is one of the most common causes of cracked tiles. Consider having them access equipment via other means when possible.
Prompt Repairs: Address damaged tiles quickly. A single cracked tile may seem minor, but water intrusion through that crack damages underlayment and can affect surrounding tiles over time. Early repairs cost less than delayed repairs.
We're not a roofing contractor. We're your local advocate who ensures you get the best outcome for your tile roof repairs:
Free Inspections: No obligation inspections for homeowners concerned about tile damage or wanting to check for storm damage. We document everything and give you honest advice about repair priorities.
Tile Matching Expertise: We understand the importance of proper tile matching and have sourcing relationships for both current production and salvage tiles. For discontinued Monier tiles found on thousands of Oahu homes, we maintain access to a stockpile that lets us make repairs other contractors say are impossible. We won't leave you with a patchwork roof.
Insurance Expertise: We know how to document tile damage for insurance claims and understand matching requirements that can work in your favor. Getting your claim right the first time saves time and money.
Licensed Contractor Network: Every contractor we work with is licensed, insured, and experienced with tile roofing. They understand proper tile handling and installation techniques that prevent damage during repairs.
Independence: We're not tied to any single roofing company. When you call a roofer directly, they send a commissioned salesman who may push full replacement when repairs make more sense, or vice versa. We give you honest advice about whether repairs or replacement is the right choice for your situation.
Local Knowledge: We live here. We understand which tile profiles are common in which Oahu neighborhoods, where to source unusual tiles, and how Hawaii's climate affects tile roofing. This local expertise makes a difference in repair quality and cost.
Why should I use Oahu Roof Support instead of calling a roofer directly?
When you call a roofing company directly, they send out a salesman. That salesman works on commission and represents one company. They may push unnecessary full replacement when repairs make sense, or they may do quick patch repairs when your damage actually qualifies for insurance coverage. I'm independent, which means I can honestly assess your tile damage and recommend the approach that's actually best for your situation. If repairs make sense, I'll tell you. If your damage might qualify for insurance coverage of a larger repair or replacement, I'll help you explore that option.
Do I pay more by going through Oahu Roof Support?
No. Roofing companies build sales commissions into their pricing whether you call them directly or come through a referral. You're paying for that salesman either way. The difference is that I can get you competitive pricing from multiple contractors and ensure you're getting proper tile matching, not just the cheapest available substitute. You're not adding a middleman, you're replacing a biased company salesman with an independent advocate.
How much does tile roof repair cost in Hawaii?
Simple repairs replacing a few cracked tiles typically run $300 to $800 depending on tile type and accessibility. More extensive repairs involving 10-20 tiles range from $800 to $2,000. If underlayment repair is needed beneath damaged tiles, costs increase accordingly. Repairs requiring salvage tile sourcing may cost more due to sourcing time and tile costs. We provide detailed quotes before any work begins, and storm damage is often covered by insurance.
Can you match my existing tiles?
In most cases, yes. We identify your tile profile, material, and color, then source appropriate replacements. For current production tiles, matching is straightforward. For discontinued tiles like Monier, we maintain access to a stockpile of Monier tiles in various profiles and colors specifically for repairs. If you don't have spare tiles in your garage, we can likely source them. For other discontinued profiles, we source from salvage suppliers or strategically relocate tiles from less visible areas. Perfect color matching on aged tiles is challenging, but we use techniques to minimize visual contrast.
I have Monier tiles and was told they can't be matched. Can you help?
Yes. Monier tiles are discontinued, which leads many contractors to tell homeowners their only option is full roof replacement or accepting mismatched tiles. We maintain access to a stockpile of Monier tiles in various profiles and colors specifically for this situation. If you don't have spare tiles stored from your original installation, we can likely source matching Monier tiles for your repair. This is one of our significant advantages over typical roofing contractors.
Should I repair damaged tiles or replace my whole roof?
It depends on the extent of damage and your roof's overall condition. If you have scattered tile damage but sound underlayment, repairs make sense. If damage is extensive, underlayment is failing, or your tiles are discontinued and unmatchable, replacement may be more cost-effective. We assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations. Insurance coverage can also factor into this decision.
Will my insurance cover tile repair?
If damage resulted from a covered event like wind or storm debris, yes. Insurance typically doesn't cover tiles broken by foot traffic, normal wear, or settling. We document storm damage and help you file claims correctly. Importantly, if storm damage is extensive and matching tiles aren't available, insurance matching requirements may support a larger repair or full replacement claim.
How long do tile roofs last in Hawaii?
Quality tile roofs can last 50 years or more in Hawaii with proper maintenance. The tiles themselves often outlast the underlayment beneath them. Concrete tiles typically last 40-50+ years, while clay tiles can last 75-100 years. Regular maintenance and prompt repair of damaged tiles maximizes your roof's lifespan.
Can I walk on my tile roof?
You shouldn't unless you know proper technique. Improper walking is one of the most common causes of cracked tiles. If you need something retrieved from your roof or need to inspect damage, call a professional. When contractors need roof access, ensure they're experienced with tile roofing. The cost of a service call is far less than repairing cracked tiles.
What causes tiles to slide out of position?
Sliding tiles usually indicate fastener failure, underlayment deterioration, or improper original installation. High winds can also shift tiles that weren't adequately secured. If you have sliding tiles, the repair should address the underlying cause, not just reposition the tiles. Otherwise, they'll slide again.
How do I know if my tile roof needs repair?
Warning signs include visible cracked or broken tiles, tiles that appear out of alignment, debris in gutters from tile deterioration, water stains on ceilings after rain, and daylight visible from inside your attic. After any significant storm, inspect for displaced tiles or have a professional inspection. Annual professional inspections catch problems early.
What if I'm not happy with the contractor's work?
Because I'm independent, I have real accountability. If a contractor in my network does poor work or uses mismatched tiles, I address it and find someone to make it right. A roofing company salesman can't fire their own employer. My reputation depends on connecting you with contractors who do quality tile work, so I'm selective about who I recommend.
How long does tile repair take?
Simple repairs with readily available tiles can be completed in a few hours to a single day. Repairs requiring salvage tile sourcing may take longer while we locate matching materials. Extensive repairs involving underlayment work may take multiple days. Your contractor will give you a specific timeline based on the scope of work and tile availability.
Your tile roof is built to last, but only if damage is addressed promptly and repairs are done correctly. Whether you've noticed cracked or sliding tiles, suspect storm damage, or just want to ensure your tile roof is in good condition, we're here to help.
Whether you're in Mililani, Ewa Beach, the North Shore, Kaneohe, Waianae, Honolulu, or anywhere else on Oahu, we serve your community with honest assessments, expert tile matching, and access to qualified contractors who understand tile roofing.
What happens when you reach out:
Fill out the form below or call us directly. We'll contact you within 24 hours to schedule. Your inspection is typically completed within 48 hours. You'll receive a detailed assessment of tile condition, insurance claim guidance if applicable, and a clear recommendation for repairs.
Prefer to call? Reach us directly at 808-766-8023
