Install Tile Roofing in New Orleans | Big Easy Roofers
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How to Install Tile Roofing in New Orleans

New Orleans, known for its diverse architectural styles, offers a rich backdrop for any building project. Tile roofing, with its blend of durability and aesthetic appeal, fits perfectly into this landscape. 

However, installing a tile roof requires specialized knowledge and meticulous attention to detail. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the intricacies of installing tile roofing in New Orleans.

What is Tile Roofing?

metal roof tile

Tile roofing is a type of roofing material that uses tiles made from various substances like clay, concrete, slate, or even composite materials. These tiles are designed to keep out rain and are traditionally made from locally available materials such as terracotta or slate. Nowadays, modern materials such as concrete and plastic are also used, and some clay tiles have a waterproof glaze.

Tile roofs are popular in many parts of the world, especially in Mediterranean, Spanish, and Southwestern architecture, but they can also be found in other climates thanks to their high durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. They come in various styles, shapes, and colors, allowing homeowners to customize the appearance of their roofs to match their architectural preferences.

Tile roofing offers a number of advantages such as a long lifespan, fire resistance, and low maintenance requirements. However, it is heavier than other roofing materials like asphalt shingles or metal roofing, so the structure must be able to support the weight. Installation can also be more labor-intensive, making it a more expensive option.

Overall, tile roofing is a durable and aesthetically pleasing option that can be suitable for a variety of home styles and climates.

Pre-Installation Preparations

Assess the Roof Structure

Tile roofing is heavy, and you need to ensure that the building structure can support the weight. Hire a structural engineer to assess the viability of your building to hold a tile roof. If necessary, structural reinforcements may be required.

Acquire Permits

Being a city steeped in history, New Orleans has building codes and regulations that need to be followed. Ensure you get all the necessary permits before starting the installation process.

Choose the Right Tile

Select the type of tile that best suits the architectural style of your property and the climatic conditions in New Orleans. Options range from clay and concrete to slate tiles. Each type has its pros and cons in terms of weight, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Gather Materials and Tools

Make sure to have all the essential materials on hand—underlayment, fasteners, flashing, etc.—along with the necessary tools such as nail guns, ladders, and safety gear.

Installation Process

tile roofing contractor

Step 1: Install Underlayment

The first step in the installation is laying the underlayment, which serves as a barrier against water and wind. Usually, a layer of #30 felt is installed over the roof decking, using nails or staples. This is crucial for preventing leaks and adding an extra layer of insulation.

Step 2: Starting Course

Begin the first course by laying tiles along the eave, ensuring they’re straight and aligned. For the first row, special eave tiles may be used that are designed to channel water into the gutters.

Step 3: Fastening Tiles

Tiles are generally fastened using nails or screws. The fastening method may vary depending on the type of tile and the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always double-check that the fasteners penetrate through the underlayment and securely into the decking for maximum holding strength.

Step 4: Tile Layout

Tiles are laid from bottom to top and are usually staggered to improve water runoff. Make sure to mix tiles from different pallets to maintain uniform color distribution.

Step 5: Install Flashing

Install flashing in valleys, around chimneys, and at roof penetrations such as vents and skylights. This helps direct water away from these vulnerable areas and down into the gutters.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

The last row of tiles, ridge tiles, are installed at the roof’s peak. Special ridge fasteners are often used for these tiles.

Safety Measures

  • Always use safety gear like harnesses to prevent falls.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on proper fastening to ensure that the tiles hold up to New Orleans’ occasionally extreme weather conditions.

Hiring Professionals

Certainly, the complexities involved in installing tile roofing make hiring professionals an advantageous decision for multiple reasons. Below are some of the key factors that underline the importance of seeking expert assistance for tile roof installations, particularly in a city like New Orleans with its unique set of challenges:

Expertise and Experience

Installing a tile roof is not a straightforward process; it involves a specific skill set and an intimate understanding of various roofing materials and techniques. Professional roofing contractors bring years of experience to the table, ensuring that each step—from preparing the roof deck to laying down the underlayment and placing the tiles—is executed flawlessly.

Compliance with Building Codes

New Orleans has specific building codes and regulations, which may include stipulations about the weight and type of roofing materials, wind resistance, and other structural elements. Professionals are well-versed in these local codes, making sure your roof is compliant and avoiding any legal pitfalls that could arise from a poorly installed roof.

Adaptation to Climatic Conditions

The climate in New Orleans can be a significant factor in determining the longevity and effectiveness of a tile roof. Professionals are aware of how to choose the right type of tile and underlayment that can withstand the high humidity, occasional heavy rains, and hurricane conditions unique to the area.

Quality of Workmanship

When you hire professionals, you are essentially paying for their expertise, high-quality materials, specialized equipment, and labor warranty. Their installation process will be much more meticulous than a DIY approach, and the finished product will likely be more durable and long-lasting.

Time-Efficiency

Time is money, especially when it comes to construction projects. A professional team can complete the job in a fraction of the time it would take to do it yourself, which is crucial for commercial buildings where any delay can result in financial losses.

Safety Measures

Roof installation involves risks like falling, electrical hazards, and even potential injuries from the tools used for installation. Professionals are trained to navigate these risks effectively, ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the project.

After-Installation Services

Many professional roofing contractors offer warranties and after-installation services. This means that in the rare event, that something goes wrong with your roof, you have a safety net to fall back on.

Cost-Efficiency

While hiring professionals might seem like a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run. DIY mistakes can be costly to fix, and a poorly installed roof may require more frequent repairs and maintenance, eroding any initial savings.

In summary, while tile roofing installation may seem like a project you could tackle on your own, the specialized skills required, coupled with New Orleans’ specific climate and building codes, make hiring a professional contractor a wise investment. Their experience and expertise can save you time, ensure your roof is durable and compliant with local laws, and ultimately provide peace of mind.

Contact Big Easy Roofers Today

Installing tile roofing on your New Orleans home is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. Throughout this blog post, we discussed how tile roofing can add long-term value to your home, the durability of the material, and its ability to provide high resistance to hurricane winds. 

We also discussed its stylish look that can help with curb appeal, experienced installation teams from Big Easy Roofers who are knowledgeable in traditional methods and modern products, and the personalized service tailored specifically to your needs. 

With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why installing tile roofing is a great choice for any New Orleans area homeowner.  If you’re considering installing tile roofing on your home, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact Big Easy Roofers today

Our experts will be able to walk you through everything you need to know about installing a tile roofing system that fits all your needs. Reach out today for more information on how you can make your roof even more durable and energy-efficient with our wide selection of floors!

What Our clients Say

Samira Stock

Just had my roof replaced by Big Easy Roofers, and I am more than pleased! Todd was so responsive and helpful and the whole experience went smoothly. The rain today didn’t interrupt them in any way at all, they got it done quickly with no issues whatsoever. I would recommend these guys to anyone looking for a good contractor who knows what they are doing.

Leslie Crowell

They are a very responsive and effective roofing company to work with. They made the whole process easy from start to finish, explaining everything clearly along way!

Evan Lemon

I can’t say enough good things about Big Easy Roofers. They went above and beyond to help me with my roof, always making sure that they provide the best possible service for their customers. I will definitely recommend them for any roofing work!

Diane Wallace

Big Easy Roofers is amazing! I had a major roofing issue where the mold was so bad, and it’s been difficult living with family until we got new roofs. The crew did an incredible job- they were very detailed in what needed to be done which made me feel comfortable about going back into my home leak free again after just one week. They live up to their word too!

Jason Pugh

I am so glad I found Big Easy Roofers! They were very affordable and quick. The work they did on my roof made it look brand new again in less than two weeks, which was fantastic considering how bad it looked before they started working. Highly recommend!

Billy Dunn

If you’re looking for a roofing company that does the job right, Big Easy Roofers is your go-to team. They have been wonderful and attentive from start to finish. The company is licensed, knowledgeable, and very attentive. For any roofing inquiries, I would recommend them.