Tile roof installation across Oahu. Premium concrete and clay tiles. Superior longevity and heat resistance. Proper underlayment prevents leaks. Best roofer Hawaii. Free consultation.
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Tile roofing has protected Hawaii homes for generations, and for good reason. No other roofing material matches tile's combination of longevity, beauty, and performance in our tropical climate. When properly installed with quality underlayment, a tile roof can protect your home for 50 to 100 years.
When you're searching for a roofer near me for tile installation, you need contractors who understand that tile roofing is a system, not just tiles on a roof. The tiles themselves may last a century, but they're only as good as the underlayment beneath them and the installation techniques that hold everything together.
Exceptional Longevity: Concrete tile roofs typically last 50+ years. Clay tile roofs can last 75-100 years or more. Compare this to 20-30 years for asphalt shingles, and tile's value becomes clear. A tile roof installed today may never need replacement in your lifetime.
Superior Heat Resistance: Tile naturally resists Hawaii's intense sun. The thermal mass of tile moderates temperature swings, and the air gap beneath tiles provides natural insulation. Tile roofs keep homes cooler than most alternatives, reducing air conditioning costs.
Wind Resistance: Properly installed tile roofs handle Hawaii's trade winds and storm conditions. Modern installation methods secure tiles against high winds while allowing the roof system to breathe and drain.
Fire Resistance: Tile is completely non-combustible, providing excellent fire protection. This Class A fire rating offers peace of mind and may qualify for insurance benefits.
Classic Hawaii Aesthetic: Tile roofing defines Hawaii's architectural character. From traditional barrel tiles to modern flat profiles, tile complements Hawaii home styles in ways other materials can't match.
Here's what many homeowners don't realize: tile roofs are not waterproof at the tile level. Water gets under tiles during heavy rain and wind-driven conditions. It's the underlayment beneath the tiles that actually keeps water out of your home.
This is why underlayment quality and installation are the most critical factors in tile roof performance. Premium tiles over poor underlayment will leak. Modest tiles over excellent underlayment will keep you dry for decades.
How Tile Roofs Work: Tiles are the first line of defense, shedding most water and protecting the underlayment from direct UV exposure. But water regularly penetrates beneath tiles through gaps, overlaps, and during severe weather. The underlayment is your true waterproof barrier.
Underlayment Lifespan: While tiles may last 50-100 years, traditional underlayment materials last 20-30 years. This mismatch means the underlayment typically needs replacement at least once during a tile roof's life, requiring tile removal and reinstallation.
Premium Underlayment Options: Modern underlayment materials last longer and perform better than traditional felt:
Self-Adhering Membranes: Products like Palisade SA-HT provide superior protection by sealing around fasteners and adhering directly to the deck. These high-temperature rated underlayments resist Hawaii's heat and offer decades of service.
Synthetic Underlayments: Modern synthetic underlayments outperform traditional felt in durability, tear resistance, and UV exposure tolerance. They're lighter, easier to install, and last longer.
Two-Layer Systems: For maximum protection, we often specify a self-adhering membrane in critical areas (valleys, eaves, penetrations) combined with synthetic underlayment in field areas.
Our Approach: We specify premium underlayment for all tile installations because the underlayment determines how long your roof will perform without leaks. Saving money on underlayment is false economy that leads to early failure and costly repairs.
We install all styles of tile roofing to match your home's architecture and your preferences:
Concrete tiles offer durability, versatility, and value. They're the most common tile roofing material in Hawaii.
Flat Profile Tiles: Clean, modern lines that complement contemporary architecture. Flat tiles create a sleek appearance while providing all the benefits of tile roofing. Popular choices include slate and shake profiles that mimic those materials' appearance.
Low Profile Tiles: A subtle wave pattern that adds dimension without the dramatic curves of barrel tiles. Low profile tiles work with many architectural styles and provide good coverage efficiency.
High Profile Tiles: Traditional S-tiles and barrel-style profiles with dramatic shadow lines. These classic shapes define Mediterranean, Spanish, and traditional Hawaii architecture.
Manufacturers: We install concrete tiles from leading manufacturers including Eagle Roofing Products and Boral. These manufacturers offer extensive color selections, proven durability, and strong warranties.
Lifespan: Quality concrete tiles last 50+ years with proper installation and underlayment maintenance.
Clay tiles represent the premium tier of tile roofing, offering exceptional beauty and the longest lifespan of any roofing material.
Barrel Tiles: The iconic curved tiles that define Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean architecture. Barrel tiles create dramatic shadow lines and a distinctive appearance that improves with age.
S-Tiles: Classic S-shaped profile common on traditional Hawaii homes. S-tiles combine good coverage with attractive shadow patterns.
Flat Clay Tiles: Elegant flat profiles for contemporary applications. Flat clay tiles offer a refined appearance with superior durability.
French Tiles: Interlocking profiles that combine efficient coverage with distinctive appearance.
Natural Color Variation: Clay tiles develop character over time. Natural color variations and weathering create a patina that many homeowners prize.
Manufacturers: We install clay tiles from manufacturers including MCA Clay Tile, US Tile, and Ludowici. These companies offer traditional and contemporary profiles with proven performance.
Lifespan: Clay tiles can last 75-100+ years. Many clay tile roofs from the early 1900s are still performing today.
Modern synthetic tiles provide tile appearance with reduced weight and easier installation.
Composite Tiles: Made from recycled materials, composite tiles offer durability and environmental benefits. Products from DaVinci and Brava mimic natural materials convincingly.
Polymer Tiles: Lightweight polymer tiles reduce structural requirements while providing tile aesthetics. They're a good option when weight is a concern.
Benefits: Synthetic tiles weigh significantly less than concrete or clay, reducing structural requirements. They resist impact damage better than natural materials and never crack from freeze-thaw (not a Hawaii concern but relevant for product durability).
Considerations: Synthetic tiles haven't been around as long as concrete or clay, so long-term Hawaii performance data is limited. They cost more than concrete tile but less than clay.
Lifespan: Manufacturers warrant synthetic tiles for 50 years, comparable to concrete.
Quality tile installation follows a structured process that ensures decades of performance:
Tile is heavy. Concrete tiles weigh 9-12 pounds per square foot; clay tiles weigh 8-15 pounds per square foot. Before installation, we verify that your roof structure can support tile weight.
New Construction: For new homes, we coordinate with builders to ensure framing is designed for tile loads from the start.
Re-Roofing: When replacing existing tile, the structure has already proven adequate. When converting from shingles to tile, engineering assessment may be required.
Reinforcement: If structural capacity is marginal, reinforcement options exist. Lightweight synthetic tiles can also solve weight concerns.
The roof deck must be sound, properly fastened, and ready to receive underlayment. We inspect for damage, proper nailing, and any issues that should be addressed before underlayment goes down.
This is the most critical phase of tile roof installation. We install premium underlayment with meticulous attention to laps, seals, and integration at penetrations and transitions.
Full Coverage: Underlayment covers the entire roof deck with proper overlap at all seams.
Self-Adhering at Critical Areas: Valleys, eaves, penetrations, and other vulnerable areas receive self-adhering membrane for maximum protection.
Proper Sealing: All penetrations are properly integrated with the underlayment system.
Most tile roofs in Hawaii are installed over battens (horizontal wood strips) rather than directly to the deck. This batten system provides multiple benefits:
Drainage Channel: The space beneath tiles allows water that penetrates to drain down to the eaves rather than pooling on the underlayment.
Ventilation: Air circulation beneath tiles reduces heat transfer to the attic and extends underlayment life.
Secure Attachment: Battens provide solid attachment points for tile fastening.
We use pressure-treated battens sized appropriately for your tile profile and properly spaced for your specific tile dimensions.
Metal flashings protect all vulnerable areas where water could enter:
Valley Flashings: Wide metal valleys channel water from intersecting roof planes.
Penetration Flashings: Pipe jacks, vents, and other penetrations receive proper flashing integration.
Wall Flashings: Step and counter flashings seal where roofs meet walls.
Edge Metal: Drip edges and rake trim protect roof edges and direct water into gutters.
We use aluminum flashings for corrosion resistance, particularly important for coastal Hawaii properties.
Tiles are installed according to manufacturer specifications and Hawaii building codes:
Layout: Proper layout ensures consistent exposure and attractive coursing across the roof.
Fastening: Tiles are secured with appropriate fasteners based on roof slope, wind zone, and tile type. High-wind areas require additional fastening.
Hip and Ridge: Hip and ridge tiles are installed with proper mortar bedding or mechanical attachment.
Cut Tiles: Where tiles meet valleys, walls, and edges, precision cutting ensures proper fit and appearance.
We complete all finish work including:
Bird Stops: Closures at eaves prevent birds and pests from entering beneath tiles.
Ridge Sealing: Ridge tiles are sealed to prevent water and pest entry.
Touch-Up: Any damaged tiles from installation are replaced before completion.
Cleanup: The job site is thoroughly cleaned of all debris and materials.
Tile roofing offers extensive aesthetic options:
Earth Tones: Terra cotta, brown, and tan tiles complement Hawaii's natural environment and traditional architecture. These classic colors age gracefully and hide weathering.
Cool Colors: Gray, charcoal, and slate tones suit contemporary architecture and can reduce heat absorption compared to darker traditional colors.
Blend Options: Multi-color blends combine several shades for a variegated appearance that adds visual interest and hides individual tile variations.
Custom Colors: Some manufacturers offer custom color matching for distinctive projects or historic restorations.
Reflective Tiles: Cool roof tile options with reflective coatings reduce heat absorption, lowering cooling costs. These tiles meet Energy Star requirements while maintaining traditional appearance.
We serve homeowners across the entire island with tile installation expertise:
Mililani and Central Oahu: Many Mililani homes feature tile roofs, and the style suits central Oahu's established neighborhoods. We install new tile and replace aging tile roofs throughout Mililani and Mililani Mauka.
Ewa Beach and Kapolei: West Oahu developments increasingly feature tile roofing for its longevity and heat resistance. Cool roof tiles are particularly valuable in sunny Ewa Beach and Kapolei, reducing cooling costs significantly.
Hawaii Kai: Coastal Hawaii Kai homes benefit from tile's durability in salt air environments. Unlike metal flashings, tiles themselves are unaffected by salt. We specify appropriate underlayment and flashings for Hawaii Kai's coastal conditions.
North Shore: Traditional Hawaii homes on the North Shore often feature tile roofing. We replace aging underlayment and install new tile roofs that handle the area's weather while respecting architectural traditions.
Kaneohe and Kailua: The Windward side's heavy rainfall makes underlayment quality especially critical. We specify premium underlayment for Kaneohe and Kailua tile installations to handle frequent rain.
Honolulu: From historic Manoa estates to modern Kakaako construction, tile roofing suits Honolulu's diverse architecture. We work with homeowners and builders throughout the city on tile installation and replacement.
Quality tile installations come with strong warranty protection:
Concrete Tile: Leading manufacturers like Eagle and Boral offer 50-year limited warranties covering material defects. These warranties reflect tile's exceptional durability.
Clay Tile: Premium clay tile manufacturers often provide 75-year or lifetime warranties. Clay tile's track record supports these extended coverage periods.
Transferability: Most tile warranties transfer to new owners, adding value when selling your home.
Premium Underlayment: Quality synthetic and self-adhering underlayments carry 25-30 year or longer warranties. This extended coverage better matches tile longevity than traditional felt warranties.
Our certified contractors provide minimum 7-year workmanship warranties covering installation defects. Proper installation is essential for both performance and warranty validity.
Tile roofing can affect your homeowners insurance:
Potential Premium Reductions: Tile's fire resistance (Class A rating) and wind resistance may qualify for insurance discounts with some carriers. Ask your agent about tile roof benefits.
Storm Damage Coverage: If storm events damage your tile roof, repairs or replacement are typically covered. Tile's durability means fewer claims over the roof's lifetime.
Documentation: We document tile installations thoroughly, providing information your insurer may need about materials and installation methods.
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.
If storm damage necessitates tile roof work, we document appropriately for insurance claims and help ensure you receive proper coverage.
Tile roofing requires higher upfront investment than shingles, but long-term value often favors tile:
Initial Cost: Tile roof installation typically runs $15 to $30+ per square foot depending on tile type, roof complexity, and structural requirements. Concrete tile is most economical; clay tile is premium.
Lifecycle Cost: A tile roof lasting 50-75 years costs less per year than two or three shingle roofs over the same period. When you factor in avoided re-roofing costs, tile often provides better value.
Energy Savings: Tile's natural insulation and cool roof options reduce cooling costs throughout the roof's life. In Hawaii, these savings are significant.
Home Value: Tile roofing increases home value. Buyers recognize tile's longevity and reduced maintenance needs. A quality tile roof is a selling point.
Underlayment Replacement: Plan for underlayment replacement in 25-30 years. This maintenance cost is significantly less than full roof replacement but should be factored into long-term planning.
We're not a roofing contractor. We're your local advocate who ensures you get the best outcome for your tile roof installation:
Underlayment Focus: We emphasize underlayment quality because it determines how long your tile roof performs without leaks. We never cut corners on the component that matters most.
Free Consultations: We discuss your options, assess your property, and provide recommendations at no charge. No sales pressure, just honest guidance.
Material Expertise: We help you select the right tile type, profile, and color for your home's architecture and your preferences. We explain trade-offs between options.
Structural Assessment: We verify your home can support tile weight and coordinate engineering assessment if needed.
Certified Contractors: We work with contractors experienced in tile installation who follow manufacturer specifications and proper techniques.
Independence: We're not tied to any tile manufacturer or roofing company. We recommend what's best for your situation.
Why should I use Oahu Roof Support instead of calling a roofer directly?
Tile installation requires specialized expertise, and underlayment quality is critical. Many roofers focus on the tiles while cutting corners on underlayment. I ensure premium underlayment, proper installation techniques, and appropriate tile selection for your specific situation. I also help you understand the long-term value proposition of tile versus other materials.
Do I pay more by going through Oahu Roof Support?
No. Tile installation costs are driven by materials and labor. I help you get competitive bids from qualified tile installers and ensure specifications are appropriate. You get better quality oversight, not higher prices.
How much does tile roof installation cost in Hawaii?
Tile installation typically ranges from $15 to $30+ per square foot. For an average Hawaii home (2,000-2,500 sq ft roof), this means $30,000 to $60,000+ depending on tile type and complexity. Concrete tile is at the lower end; premium clay tile is higher. We provide detailed quotes based on your specific project.
How long does tile roof installation take?
Most residential tile installations take 1-2 weeks depending on roof size and complexity. Larger or complex roofs may take longer. We provide realistic timelines before work begins.
Can my house support a tile roof?
Most homes built in Hawaii since the 1960s were designed to support tile. Older homes or those originally built for lighter roofing may need assessment. We verify structural adequacy before specifying tile and can coordinate engineering evaluation if needed.
What's the difference between concrete and clay tile?
Both are durable and attractive. Concrete tile is more economical and offers more color options. Clay tile costs more but lasts longer (75-100+ years vs. 50+ for concrete) and develops a distinctive patina. Choice depends on budget, aesthetic preference, and desired longevity.
Why do you emphasize underlayment so much?
Because tiles don't keep water out by themselves. Water gets under tiles during heavy rain and wind. The underlayment is your actual waterproof barrier. Premium underlayment prevents leaks for 25-30 years; cheap underlayment fails in 10-15 years even under perfect tiles. Underlayment quality determines roof performance.
Will I need to replace the underlayment during the tile's life?
Probably once. Even premium underlayment lasts 25-30 years while tiles last 50-100 years. Underlayment replacement involves removing tiles, installing new underlayment, and reinstalling the original tiles. It's a significant maintenance expense but much less than full replacement.
Do tile roofs require maintenance?
Less than most roofing materials. Annual visual inspection, keeping debris clear, and promptly replacing any cracked tiles is typically all that's needed. The underlayment should be professionally inspected every 10-15 years as it ages.
Are tile roofs good for Hawaii's climate?
Excellent. Tile's heat resistance reduces cooling costs. Tile handles UV exposure without degradation. Heavy construction withstands wind and rain. Tile is arguably the ideal roofing material for Hawaii's climate, which is why it's been used here for over a century.
Can I get cool roof tile for energy efficiency?
Yes. Manufacturers offer reflective tile coatings that meet Energy Star requirements. These tiles look traditional but reflect more solar radiation, reducing heat absorption and cooling costs. They're particularly valuable in sunny West Oahu.
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 delivers substandard tile work, I address it and find resolution. My reputation depends on connecting homeowners with contractors who install tile roofs correctly.
A tile roof is a significant investment that pays dividends for decades. Whether you're building new, replacing an aging roof, or considering upgrading to tile, we're here to help you make informed decisions.
Whether you're in Mililani, Ewa Beach, Hawaii Kai, Kaneohe, Honolulu, or anywhere else on Oahu, we serve homeowners across the island with tile roofing expertise.
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 consultation includes property assessment, discussion of tile options, structural considerations, and clear recommendations tailored to your goals and budget.
Prefer to call? Reach us directly at 808-766-8023
