Slipped tiles are one of the most common things we get called out for. A single slipped tile is rarely an emergency in itself — but it's almost always a warning sign that the roof is reaching the point where age-related issues are catching up. Here's what causes it.
Is one slipped tile an emergency?
Not usually — but it should be refitted within a few weeks. Even one missing tile lets driving rain into the felt and accelerates damage.
Why are my new-build's tiles slipping?
Often poor original installation — nails too short, tiles not fully clipped, or insufficient mechanical fixing in exposed locations. Worth getting checked against NHBC standards if still under warranty.
Can I refit a slipped tile myself?
If it's accessible from the loft hatch onto a one-storey extension — possibly. From a ladder onto a two-storey roof — no, the fall risk isn't worth it.
Old-style steel or copper roofing nails corrode over 40–60 years until they snap. Common on Victorian and pre-war roofs.
Refit individual tiles with new nails; widespread fatigue means a re-roof.
Tile nibs (the lugs that hook over the batten) crack from freeze-thaw cycles, especially on older concrete tiles.
Replace affected tiles with matching profile.
Battens under tiles rot if the felt above has failed and water has been sitting on them for years.
Visible from the loft. If widespread, indicates re-roof needed; localised areas can be re-battened.
Sustained high wind lifts tiles enough to break the friction holding them. Often affects ridge, hip and verge tiles first.
Refit and re-bed; consider mechanically fixing verge & ridge tiles in exposed locations.
Evans Roofing & Maintenance Ltd, Witney, Oxfordshire. Call 07960 482233 for a free written quote.