If you have a tile roof, chances are you appreciate both the look and the longevity. Tile roofs are popular throughout Southern Arizona for their durability and desert-friendly appearance. But here’s a little-known truth: the tile isn’t the most important part of your roof. It’s what’s underneath that does the heavy lifting.
Understanding this difference can save you thousands in the long run—and help you make smarter decisions when it comes to repairs, inspections, and replacements.
What Does Tile Actually Do?
Roof tiles—whether clay, concrete, or synthetic—play a vital role. They:
- Protect the underlayment from UV exposure
- Provide a layer of defense against rain and debris
- Help regulate attic temperatures
- Add aesthetic value to your home
But while tiles are sturdy, they’re not waterproof. Water can—and does—get underneath them. That’s why your roof relies on an additional barrier: the underlayment.
Meet the MVP: Your Roof Underlayment
The underlayment is a waterproof or water-resistant layer that sits between the roof deck and the tile. It’s typically made from modified bitumen, felt, or synthetic materials.
Its job? Keep water out of your home. Especially during monsoon season or rare winter rains, the underlayment is your roof’s true first line of defense against leaks.
Over time, even if your tiles still look great, the underlayment can break down due to:
- Heat and UV exposure
- Trapped moisture under cracked tiles
- Age and general wear
- Poor installation practices
Once it fails, water can seep into your roof deck and attic, causing rot, mold, or structural issues.
How Long Does Underlayment Last?
In Tucson’s climate, tile underlayment typically lasts:
- 15–20 years for standard felt-based materials
- 25–30+ years for higher-grade or double-layer synthetic systems
The tiles themselves may last 40–50 years or more. That’s why a roof with “good-looking tiles” can still be leaking—because the layer underneath has reached the end of its life.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Not sure what condition your underlayment is in? Keep an eye out for:
- Water stains on ceilings or in the attic
- Missing or cracked tiles
- Evidence of previous patch jobs
- Tiles sliding out of place
- Roofs that haven’t been inspected in over a decade
Even without visible leaks, small underlayment failures can cause slow, hidden damage over time.
Inspections Give You the Full Picture
The best way to assess your roof’s health is with a professional inspection. At Lee Hoffman Roofing, we don’t just check the surface—we look underneath to evaluate the full system.
If your underlayment is still in good shape, we’ll tell you. If it’s reaching the end of its life, we’ll help you plan ahead—before damage spreads.
Think Your Roof Is Still in Good Shape? Let’s Take a Look.
Protect your home from the inside out. Schedule a tile roof inspection with Lee Hoffman Roofing and get expert insight into the layer that really matters.