How to Replace a Broken Roof Tile (Beginner Guide + Safety Tips)

Broken roof tiles are one of the most common roofing issues — and one of the simplest repairs when done correctly. Cracked, slipped, or shattered tiles can allow water to enter the roof, leading to leaks, damp patches, and damage to the structure below.

This beginner-friendly guide explains how to safely replace a broken roof tile step by step, using basic tools and proper roofing methods.

Safety Warning

Replacing roof tiles involves working at height. Always use secure access equipment, wear suitable footwear, and avoid working in wet, icy, or windy conditions. If uncomfortable ask a roofer or a maintenance guy.

Always inspect surrounding tiles and battens before replacing a broken tile, as damage is often caused by an underlying issue.

1. Tools & Safety Gear You’ll Need

Tools

Slate ripper (for slates)
Flat pry bar
Hammer
Replacement tile
Nail gun or hammer nails (depending on tile type)

Safety Gear

Ladder
Gloves
Boots
Roof ladder (recommended)

Never attempt repairs in bad weather — safety first.

2. Identify the Type of Tile You’re Replacing

The method changes depending on tile type:

Concrete interlocking tiles

Usually not nailed except on eaves, verge, and ridge courses.

Clay interlocking tiles

Similar method but slightly more fragile.

Natural slate or fibre cement slate

Slates are nailed and require a slate ripper to remove.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Replace a Concrete or Clay Roof Tile

Concrete and clay tiles are the most common in the UK — and very easy to replace.

Step 1 — Lift the tiles around the broken one

Use a pry bar or your hands to gently lift the tiles above and around the damaged tile.
This releases pressure so the broken tile can slide out.

Step 2 — Slide the broken tile out

Most concrete tiles are not nailed — they hook onto the batten.

Slide it up or sideways until it comes loose.

If nailed:
Break the tile around the nail with light hammer taps, then remove the nail.

Step 3 — Slide in the new tile

Place the replacement tile into the gap:

Hook the bottom nibs over the batten
Make sure the tile sits flush
Check the overlap with tiles either side

Step 4 — Let the upper tiles drop back into place

The tiles above will naturally lock the new tile into position.

Make sure:

No edges are raised
No gaps are left
The new tile follows the roof line

4. How to Replace a Broken Slate (Natural or Fibre Cement)

Slate tiles require a different method.

Step 1 — Use a slate ripper to remove nails

Slide the ripper under the broken slate.
Hook the nails.
Strike the handle with a hammer to cut the nail.

Step 2 — Remove the broken slate

Slide it out from the course.

Step 3 — Fit a new slate using a copper nail and a slate hanger

Position the slate
Use a hooked slate hanger or nail + bib
Slide the slate back into place

This is known as a “tingle” repair” or “slate hook repair.”

5. Common Mistakes Beginners Make

Replacing tiles in windy weather
Not lifting the surrounding tiles properly
Breaking the underlay
Fitting the tile without engaging the nibs
Forgetting to match the tile profile
Leaving raised tile edges (causes rattling and leaks)

6. Pro Roofer Tips

Always carry 2 spare tiles — sometimes one breaks during fitting.
Match tile colour and profile as closely as possible.
If underlay is torn, patch it before replacing the tile.
On old roofs, tiles become brittle — take your time.
If tiles keep sliding, check the batten for rot.

FAQ

Can I replace a roof tile myself?

Yes — concrete tiles are very beginner-friendly.
Just take safety seriously.

Do I need to nail replacement tiles?

Usually no — most tiles hook onto battens.
But eaves/verge tiles may be nailed.

How much does a roofer charge for this?

£80–£150 typically.
Doing it yourself saves money.

When to Call a Roofer

Multiple broken tiles
Damaged battens
Cracked Underlay
Repeated Leaks

Replacing a broken roof tile promptly helps prevent water ingress and further roof damage. By working safely, using the correct tools, and checking surrounding tiles, most single-tile repairs can be completed quickly and effectively. However there might be cases of where the damage is more significant that can be seen, in that case its best to call a professional.