Why are flashing, underlayment and fastening details so important?
Flashing, underlayment and fastening details are not very interesting, but are the key to the longevity of your tile roof. A tile roof is not waterproof, only weather proof. The key to water proofing is what’s underneath. These systems must be installed using quality materials and experienced mechanics. If a hundred year roof is installed, it should be installed over materials that will also last one hundred years. This means copper or stainless steel flashing and fasteners. Underlayment specifications should be those that best fit your area and climate. We have removed tile on many structures built at the turn-of-century, only to replace the underlayment and certain areas of the flashing and then reinstalling the same tile. These roofs are good for another 100 years. No matter how good or expensive the tile, it is only as good as what is underneath. The key to your tile roof is not the tile, but the quality of the installation! Click on the thumbnail for a larger view.
