The Most Common Causes of Slipped and Missing Tiles

Introduction

Roof tiles are designed to withstand the elements and protect your property, but over time, they can become displaced or go missing altogether. Slipped and missing tiles may seem like minor issues at first glance, but they often lead to water ingress, internal damp, and structural damage if left unattended.

At KLJ Roofing Towcester, we carry out roof inspections and repairs across Towcester, Northamptonshire, addressing these problems before they escalate. In this blog, we highlight the most common causes of slipped and missing roof tiles so you can understand what to look out for and take preventative action where possible.

Ageing Roofing Materials

Wear and Tear Over Time

All roofing materials have a lifespan, and as tiles age, they naturally become more brittle and susceptible to displacement. Fixings can loosen, and the bedding mortar on ridge or hip tiles may deteriorate, particularly on roofs more than 20 years old.

Signs of ageing roof tiles:

  • Cracks or surface flaking
  • Rusted or missing nails
  • Loose mortar on ridge or verge tiles
  • Frequent tile movement during wind

Regular roof maintenance in Towcester, Northamptonshire can help catch these issues early and extend the life of your roof.

Storm Damage and High Winds

Weather Is a Leading Cause

Sudden gusts of wind or intense storms are among the most common causes of slipped or dislodged tiles. When tiles aren’t secured properly—or if they’re already weakened—wind uplift can break the fixings or push the tiles out of place.

Weather-related risks include:

  • Gale-force winds lifting ridge and verge tiles
  • Wind-driven rain weakening mortar bonds
  • Tree branches falling and striking the roof
  • Freeze-thaw cycles expanding small cracks

After severe weather in Towcester, Northamptonshire, it’s important to check your roof visually or arrange a professional inspection with KLJ Roofing Towcester.

Poor Installation

Substandard Work Causes Long-Term Issues

If your roof was installed using incorrect methods or materials, the tiles may not be able to withstand normal weathering. Poor alignment, insufficient nailing, or using the wrong type of tile for the pitch can lead to recurring issues.

Common installation faults:

  • Incorrect spacing or overlap of tiles
  • Inadequate fixings, particularly at the eaves and ridge
  • Incompatible materials that expand or contract differently
  • Lack of proper underlay support

At KLJ Roofing Towcester, we often find installation issues during inspections in Towcester, Northamptonshire that need correcting to prevent ongoing tile displacement.

Wildlife and Pest Disturbance

More Common Than You Might Think

Birds, squirrels, and other animals can dislodge tiles while attempting to nest under them or access the roof void. Over time, this movement weakens fixings and creates gaps that invite further entry or water penetration.

Animal-related issues may include:

  • Birds lifting tiles to nest
  • Rodents chewing through roof felt or battens
  • Wasps building nests in roof spaces
  • Insect damage weakening wooden battens

Regular inspections, especially in spring and autumn, can help spot these disturbances early across homes in Towcester, Northamptonshire.

Structural Movement or Sagging

A Shifting Frame Can Loosen Tiles

If the roof structure shifts due to foundation settling, timber warping, or structural movement, the tiles may no longer sit correctly. Even slight changes in alignment can cause tiles to slide out of position, especially when combined with other factors like weather or age.

Structural concerns to look for:

  • Uneven or sagging rooflines
  • Visible gaps between tiles and battens
  • Tiles slipping in a consistent pattern
  • Roof deck movement due to loft alterations

KLJ Roofing Towcester can carry out structural checks and reinforcement where required, especially in older or converted properties in Towcester, Northamptonshire.

Conclusion

Slipped or missing tiles may seem minor at first, but they often signal deeper issues with your roof’s structure, fixings, or weather resistance. Identifying the cause early is key to avoiding more serious and expensive damage in the future.

At KLJ Roofing Towcester, we offer expert roof inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance throughout Towcester, Northamptonshire. Whether your tiles have slipped due to weather, age, or installation faults, our experienced team is here to help restore your roof’s integrity and keep your home protected. Reach out today for professional advice and dependable roofing support.

This is a photo if a roof ridge which has missing tiles. The ridge tiles are being replaced by KLJ Roofing Towcester

Similar Posts