Bats in Barrel Tile Roofs in Lakeland, FL
Why tile roofs are a specific problem
Barrel and Spanish tile is common across central Florida, and the shape of the tile leaves an open void at every course end. That void is dry, sheltered and warm, which makes it close to ideal for a small roost even when the attic itself is sealed.
Because the gap is part of how the roof is built rather than a defect, it does not show up as damage on an inspection. Homeowners often find the colony by the staining that appears down an exterior wall below the roost rather than by any visible hole.
Sealing tile without wrecking the roof
The tile ends have to be closed in a way that blocks bats but still lets the roof breathe and drain. Filling the voids with mortar or foam traps moisture and causes worse problems later, so purpose made tile closures are fitted instead.
The work is done course by course and needs care on older tile, which becomes brittle and will crack under foot traffic if it is walked carelessly.