What is a Tile Re-Felt? The Ultimate Protection for Arizona Homes.

If you’re living in Arizona, you’ve probably heard the term “tile re-felt” pop up when talking about roof maintenance. What is a tile re-felt and why is it so important, especially here in the desert?

Simply put, tile re-felting involves replacing the layer of felt (or another underlayment material) that sits beneath your roof tiles. While the tiles themselves are built to last for decades, the felt underneath doesn’t have the same longevity. It’s there to act as a waterproof barrier, protecting your home from leaks. Over time, the harsh Arizona sun and weather can wear it down, making it necessary to replace the felt to keep your roof functioning properly.

Re-Felt Process

Tile re-felting isn’t just a quick fix—it’s a process. Here’s how it works:

1. Removing the Tiles: The first step is carefully removing the tiles to get to the underlayment. The good news is that tiles are usually still in great condition and can be reused.
2. Taking Off the Old Felt: Once the tiles are off, the old, worn-out felt is removed to expose the roof decking underneath.
3. Inspecting the Decking: The roof decking is then inspected for any signs of damage or decay. If repairs are needed, they’re done before moving forward.
4. Installing New Felt: After the inspection, a new synthetic underlayment is laid down (we are proud partner of Westlake Royal), giving your roof a fresh layer of waterproof protection.
5. Reinstalling the Tiles: Finally, the original tiles are placed back on top, restoring your roof to its original look but with better protection underneath.
6. Final Inspection and Approval: Once the work is completed and cleaned up thoroughly to make sure there are no leftover debris and ensure that your property looks immaculate, every aspect is inspected with the homeowner to guarantee the highest quality standards.

Depending on the size of your roof, this process can take a few days to over a week for the largest homes.

Costs of Tile Re-Felting

Costs for tile re-felting can vary depending on factors like roof size, the type of underlayment used, and whether any repairs are needed. Typically, in Arizona, homeowners can expect to spend somewhere between $6,000 and $15,000 for this kind of project. The good news is that reusing your original tile reduces the material cost of protecting your home significantly!

Why Tile Re-Felting is Critical in Arizona

Arizona’s desert climate makes tile re-felting even more important here than in other parts of the country. While the tiles themselves can handle high heat, the felt underneath bears the brunt of constant exposure to extreme temperatures and UV rays. Over time (20 years on average), this wears down the material, it becomes brittle (see pictures) making it unable to effectively keep water out.

When monsoon season hits, the intense rain can quickly cause leaks if the underlayment is in bad shape. This can lead to bigger problems like water damage, mold, and even structural issues. Re-felting ensures that your roof can handle the elements, keeping your home safe and dry.

Time for a Free Inspection?

If it’s been a while since you’ve had your roof inspected, now might be the time. Arizona’s climate is tough on roofs, and a tile re-felt can help extend the life of your home. Get in touch with United Contracting Group today to schedule an inspection and learn more about how we can help. Your home deserves the best protection.

Why Choose United Contracting Group?

At United Contracting Group, we’ve completed thousands of tile re-felt jobs across Arizona, and we know how to handle the unique challenges that come with roofing in this extreme environment. We use only the best materials to ensure long-lasting protection for your roof. Our experience and commitment to quality mean you can trust us to get the job done right.

Whether you’re in Scottsdale or Tucson, we’ve helped homeowners across the state protect their homes with professional tile re-felting services. We’re here to make sure your roof can handle whatever Arizona throws at it.