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How to remove roof tiles

A person on a tiled roof replacing a roof tile

Overview

Working with roof tiles is a lot easier when you know a couple of basic tricks. We will show you how to take a tile off and replace it properly. You will also see how to move neighbouring tiles out of the way, and what to do when the tiles are nailed down.

Steps

1Removing a tile from the roof

Begin by lifting up the next-door, overlapping tile. This will lift the overlapping tiles on the row above, so the tile you want to remove should come out easily. If your tiles aren't lifting, they may have nails holding them in place. If so, lift up the bottoms of the overhanging tiles in the row above, pry the nail out of your tile and then lift it out.
A person on a tiled roof removing a roof tile

2Replacing a tile in the roof

Lift up the bottom of the tiles from the row above and slide your tile back into place. If your tiles have been nailed, then drive a nail through the hole in the tile into the timber roof batten. Once all your tiles are in, give them any minor adjustments required to settle them in place.
A person on a tiled roof replacing a roof tile
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.