Oct 21, 2025

How to Clean and Care for Tile Roofs

eagle view of Dallas tile roof home

How to Clean and Care for Tile Roofs – Learn how tile roofing solutions from Shepherd Tile Roofing can protect your property and add long-term value.

Tile roofs are popular in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, including growing communities like Waxahachie, for good reason—they’re beautiful, long-lasting, and hold up incredibly well against Texas heat and wind. But just like any exterior surface exposed to North Texas weather, tile roofs need occasional care to perform at their best.

At Shepherd Tile Roofing, we specialize in clay and concrete tile systems that are built for durability. But routine cleaning and inspection can mean the difference between decades of performance and early deterioration. If you’re a homeowner in DFW, Waxahachie, Midlothian, or surrounding areas, here’s what you need to know about cleaning and caring for your tile roof.

Why Tile Roof Maintenance Matters in DFW

Texas weather is no joke. From hailstorms in spring to searing summer heat and heavy fall rains, your tile roof is constantly working to keep your home protected.

Without regular upkeep, you risk:

  • Cracked or dislodged tiles from high winds
  • Algae or black mold staining from summer humidity
  • Debris buildup in roof valleys after storms
  • Early failure of the underlayment that keeps your roof watertight

A well-maintained tile roof not only protects your home—it also boosts curb appeal and can even help lower insurance premiums in some areas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Tile Roof in North Texas

Whether you’re in Waxahachie or Highland Park, keeping your roof clean should be part of your home maintenance checklist. Here’s how we recommend doing it safely:

1. Start With a Roof Inspection

Before touching anything, inspect the roof from the ground or with a drone (or call us for a free inspection).

Look for:

  • Broken or cracked tiles
  • Dark streaks (mold or algae)
  • Debris blocking roof valleys
  • Gutter overflows
A tile roof in Waxahachie being visually inspected before cleaning

2. Remove Surface Debris

Use a soft-bristle broom or leaf blower to clear away:

  • Twigs and leaves (common after spring storms)
  • Pine needles or acorns from overhanging trees
  • Dirt and sand collected in valleys or behind chimneys

Never use a pressure washer—this can loosen or crack tiles.

3. Address Algae, Moss, or Mold

In humid parts of DFW, particularly near shaded or tree-covered roofs, black streaks and green moss are common.

Our safe, recommended method:

  • Apply a 50/50 water and white vinegar solution
  • Let it sit for 20–30 minutes
  • Gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge
  • Rinse with low-pressure water
moss from tile roof near downtown Dallas

4. Gutter & Valley Cleaning

Backed-up gutters in Waxahachie neighborhoods like Saddlebrook or Buffalo Ridge can cause overflow that damages fascia boards and underlayment.

Clear out:

  • Clogged downspouts
  • Roof valleys where debris collects
  • Sediment around skylights or dormers

5. Check for Tile Damage & Re-Seal

After cleaning, do a second inspection or call a pro to check for:

  • Shifted or dislodged tiles
  • Cracks or chips
  • Signs of underlayment exposure
  • Failing roof flashing

We typically replace broken tiles with matching styles and reseal vulnerable joints.

broken tile on tile roof in Irving, Texas

How Often Should DFW Homeowners Clean Their Tile Roof?

  • Annually: Light cleaning, debris removal, and visual inspection
  • Every 2–3 years: Mold/algae treatment and flashing assessment
  • After severe storms: Check for displaced tiles, especially in tornado-prone areas

When to Call the Professionals

Some tasks (like gutter cleaning or blowing off debris) can be handled by homeowners, but when it comes to walking on tiles, applying roof treatments, or spotting subtle flashing damage…it’s time to call in the pros.

At Shepherd Tile Roofing, we serve the entire DFW metroplex, including Waxahachie, Midlothian, Red Oak, and beyond. We specialize in:

✅ Tile roof cleaning and moss/algae treatment
✅ Cracked tile replacement and color matching
✅ Underlayment and flashing repairs
Annual maintenance and free inspections

Local Expertise You Can Trust

As a locally based company, we understand the unique roofing needs of North Texas homeowners. Whether it’s a historic Spanish-style home in Dallas or a newer build in Waxahachie, our team brings expert craftsmanship and care to every job.

We’re here to help you:

  • Extend the life of your tile roof
  • Protect your home from leaks and storm damage
  • Keep your home looking great, season after season

We are ready to help, give us a call for a free inspection of your tile roof.

📍Service Areas:

  • Dallas-Fort Worth
  • Irving
  • Collin County
  • Waxahachie
  • Midlothian
  • and so much more

Call us at (214) 256-8817 or send us a message here on our website.

Schedule Your Tile Roofing Project Today!

Ready to enhance the safety and efficiency of your roof? Contact Shepherd Tile Roofing today for a consultation, and let us help you with all your roofing needs. Experience the difference of working with North Texas’ most trusted Tile roofing partner!