Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the limited lifetime warranty on my concrete tile roof cover?
The limited lifetime warranty covers the Structural integrity of the roof tiles only. Color is not covered in the concrete roof tile systems. Many variables controlled by the building owner add up to how long the color of your tile roof will stay “new”. We always advise homeowners to be extremely cautious about whom they allow on their tile roof systems.
2. How can I increase the color life of my tile roof?
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| Upper tile installed in 2006 |
Just as new cars have a protective barrier applied to their color systems, your tile roof should, as well. Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze, when applied to a tile roof, will protect the “factory finish” of the tile roof, and protect the tile roof from the sun’s harmful rays and virtually all weathering.
3. Aren’t the roof tiles sealed in the factory?
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| Factory Sealed, never installed |
Temporarily, yes, with limitations. The unfortunate reality is that, due to the curing process of the concrete roof tiles, roof tile manufacturers are very limited in the amount of protective sealer they can use. When Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze is applied in the field, we are able to provide an abundant amount of protection against the elements because we do not have to worry about the 30 day cure process. If the Hydro-Sheen™ Tile Roof Glaze System was applied in the factory the roof tile manufacturers would be unable to safely stack the roof tiles for approximately 30 days. That is financially impractical for the industry and to us all. It only makes good sense for the final sealing process to be completed after installation of your tile roof. The installer of the protective Hydro-Sheen™ Tile Roof Glaze should be the last person on your tile roof for many years. Then the protected tile roof can cure with no interference. Applying the sealer after tile roof installation also insures that the point up, or mud work used to install the trim pieces, is sealed and protected as well assisting in eliminating water penetration.
4. What is the first step to protecting my tile roof investment?
The first step is to wash the mold, algae, and pollen from your roof. In order to do this RTC 5000 Roof Tile Cleaner is applied to the roof surface. RTC 5000 Roof Tile Cleaner is a GREEN cleaning solution specifically designed by Alberson's Tile Roof Glaze, Inc. to clean concrete tile roofs. It also contains surfactants that are designed to penetrate deep into the surface of the roof tiles to kill and release any existing algae colonies. RTC 5000 Roof Tile Cleaner will NOT harm grass, plants, or shrubbery, and is In Compliance with Proposition 64 in California’s Environmental Protection guidelines. We will be happy to work with your pressure cleaning contractor.
5. What is Gleocapsa?
Gleocapsa is a classification of living material in the plant kingdom. It is also a fancy word for algae. It is actually between a plant and a bacteria and it is everywhere in our environment. Not only do we find it on your tile roof but it can be seen on any surface that will provide it with a place to grow. It thrives in warm, humid areas. This can be the walls of your home, the curb by the street, or in a pool that has not been properly treated with sodium hypochlorite. It reproduces very quickly and yet because it is a simple plant it can be killed with any number of diluted chemicals.
6. What should I know about “pressure washing” my tile roof?
The only positive that comes with pressure washing or cleaning your tile roof is that temporarily it looks clean.
Pressure washing by definition uses water pressure to blast away algae, mold, and outside debris from the tile surface. In order to do this function many times too much pressure is used and the process also removes color, sand and concrete from the tile surface. This is the reason that the Gleocapsa come back so fast, the process has increased the surface pitting, the habitat where they can take hold, grow and multiply. Every situation is different, but it would be safe to say that you will be pressure washing again in a year or two. You are now etching the surface of the tile and DAMAGING your very expensive roofing system. When you think of the cost of a tile roof, pressure washing or harsh chemical baths are not good solutions. The next negative will cost you money. Some people who pressure wash roofs are not qualified roofing contractors who understand the importance of flashings, underlayments and design pressures. Walking on a tile roof is for experts only. ANYONE can break a tile. The secret is taking the responsibility for what you have done and correcting the situation. The problem with some pressure washing contractors is that they have not been trained to resolve the broken tile situation and it is a lot easier to say nothing and leave the roof without solving the problem. When a tile is broken it allows water to enter under the tile roof system. Underlayments are not designed to withstand repeated saturation. Furthermore, they are highly susceptible to rapid deterioration from the sun’s UV rays. Having a broken tile is as good as having a leak. Pressure washing can be a very expensive way of attaining a temporary fix, ask your roofer. Improper pressure cleaning, pressure and/or chemicals, of tiles roofs is possibly one of the most damaging effects to tile roof systems causing building owners to prematurely replace their roof. It is estimated by some roofing contractors that over 80% of all tile roofs are replaced prematurely, largely as a result of repeated incorrect pressure cleaning.
7. Can I paint my roof with a high quality acrylic paint?
Yes. However, the problem with most who elect to simply paint their roof is that they people have more confidence in what they were doing than the manufacturers of the paint products that they used. There is no known manufacturer of paint in the United States that will offer any warranty when you apply their paint to roofing tiles. Paint has specific properties and that cause it to crack, peel, and fade quickly on the surface of a tile roof. Paint is not water repellent and that fact allows organic material to grow freely. ALL paints and sealers are made from resins. There are hundreds of resins that contain properties that are desired in wall paint. Resins make up the manufacture’s product recipe. The best resin package makes the best product. Paint is made for walls and not the concrete tiles used to roof your building or home.
8. Can I use any standard concrete sealer on my tile roof?
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| Famous Maker Concrete Sealer |
Yes, sealers are recommended. However, not all concrete sealers are created equal. In choosing a concrete sealer we suggest a concrete sealer specifically designed and tested on Florida tile roofs. Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze has been used for decades by roof tile manufacturers and roofing contractors alike, because it works.
9. What is the difference in application between painting and Hydro-Sheen?
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| Originally completed in 1994. Note the area (red arrow) that was painted by a different company. |
Paint is not designed for 100% exposure (i.e. your roof). It is designed primarily for vertical surfaces. Paint manufacturers offer warranties on their products. These warranties may be voided when applied to roof tiles. Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze is specifically designed to be applied to concrete and clay roof tiles. Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze is NOT a paint, it is a roof tile sealer. Please check specific warranties before making a decision for your roof.
10. What is a warranty failure with Hydro-Sheen™ and how does it occur?
We have been applying Hydro-Sheen™ for over 2 decades. The product works. Failures happen because of human error. Specifically, failures might happen because the tiles were not washed properly. The mold, pollen, and Gleocapsa grow under the glazing system and pops up the material. Because we understand what causes a failure, our focus on washing and preparation is very keen. We recommend using only Hydro-Sheen certified contractors who know the correct way to apply the sealer system.
11. How long will Hydro-Sheen™ last?
Depending on the application, Hydro-Sheen is warranteed from five (5-years for clear only) to twelve (12-years for Hydro-Sheen Colored systems) years. We suggest that our clients have Alberson's or a Hydro-Sheen certified contractor wash and then re-glazed tile roof using a clear coat of Hydro-Sheen™ every 8 to 10 years to maintain maximum effectiveness.
12. Can I change the color(s) of my tile roof?
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| Before |
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| After |
In our installation process, after we put on the primer coat of Hydro-Bond™ Surface Stabilizer, the surface is ready for the color(s) of your choice. Switching color is easy and we do it every day. We have many before and after pictures that show you what a color change can do to increase the curb appeal of your project. Remember, the original color of your roof has nothing to do with today’s color trends and the color statement that you may want to make on your project. Alberson’s Hydro-Sheen™ Tile Roof Glaze System can be made in virtually any color(s). Alberson's most exciting line of colors features, “The Clay Look“. Instead of having your roof match the colors of the concrete tile industry, we have matched the most expensive clay tile roof colors in the world. These rich colors give you the look of clay without the cost. "The Clay Look" is our most popular coloration trend in the concrete tile glazing industry. Alberson's will make any color(s) that you desire. Use a color wheel, the color of your pavers, etc.
13. What are flash colors?
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| Three color flash, Terra Cotta, Brown, and Yellow |
A flash color is a second and sometimes third color that is applied to color roof tiles. It gives your tile roof a dimensional look, with depth and interest. Flash colors are fun and they enhance the coloring process. Flashing gives your tile roof character, depth, and dimension.
14. How can I protect my tile roof with HYDRO-SHEEN Tile Roof Glaze?
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| The tile on the left was installed in 2006, according to the homeowner. Tile on the right is our match with Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze |
Certified Hydro-Sheen contractors offer tile roof “tune-ups”, which usually includes an inspection, replacement of broken roof tiles, flashing resealing and repair of any items causing a performance issue. Very similar to a vehicle checkup, once a tile roof has been inspected your Hydro-Sheen certified roofing contractor can then protect your
tile roof system with the Hydro-Sheen™ Tile Roof Glaze System. We have many certified roofing contractors located on our web site. We will be happy to assist you find a qualified contractor in your area.
15. Will Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze stop my roof leak?
Hydro-Sheen Tile Roof Glaze is not designed to stop leaks. It will help prevent water from penetrating the roof tile. However, leaks are most often associated with flashing failures or broken tiles. Have your tile roof inspected by a Hydro-Sheen certified professional roofing contractor prior to application of the Hydro-Sheen™ Tile Roof Glaze System.
TOP 3 common reasons a tile roof leaks:
Please Note: The following information was obtained by licensed roofing contractors. Should you observe any of the following conditions, please contact a certified roofing contractor.1. Broken Tile- Simply replacing the tile usually does the trick. Do it quickly so the sun’s UV rays and rainwater don’t deteriorate the underlayment.
2. Flawed Flashings- A flashing is a piece of metal that covers an area where the roof changes direction or where there is a protrusion like a pipe, wall or chimney. If the flashing was not installed correctly or relies on sealant alone, it’s just a matter of time before a leak occurs. Repairs are typically not major in scope, but can quickly become so if the leak is ignored.
3. Poor Workmanship: Roofers who are not trained in tile craftsmanship often cover their lack of knowledge by taking incompatible installation practices from other roof systems leading to issues.
4. Abuse: Tile roofs are not designed for traffic. Tile roofs should only be maintained by professionals. Pressure cleaners, tree trimmers and dryer vent cleaners cause costly damage.
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