Roof tiles made of slate are not new or modern. Slate roofing tiles have a long history that dates back to many hundreds of years. Of all roof tiles types, slate tiles have survived best the ravages of time. Even to this day, they survive as a prized variety of roofing material since it has a high quality, is very durable and long-lasting, and looks spectacular even in older buildings.
Like any other roofing material, roof covering tiles have their own downside. Slate based tiles are heavy and installing them on a roof can be hard work. Roof tiles must be handled carefully to avoid breakage. Especially when those tiles are made from natural materials like slate, the cost can be exorbitantly high, making it ever more important to handle materials carefully.
There are several benefits to using slate roof tiles for buildings.
1. It is Natural
Of all roof tiles types, slate tiles are natural stone. The tiles are crafted out of sedimentary rock, with every set of tiles having its own unique texture and design. That adds to the appeal of tile roofs, but can make replacement or repairs a tricky affair, since it is difficult to match the older tiles with new ones which may be carved from a different block of slate.
2. It is Long Lasting
Tile roofs typically last for many decades. Some churches in the United States and Europe have tile roofs that have lasted for longer than 100 years. It is common to see buildings where the roofs outlive the rest of the infrastructure. However, in order to get the highest value out of these roofing materials, it is mandatory that the installation be done correctly. When you find a skilled craftsman who can install your tile roof, you can relax and enjoy your durable new roof while others who employ alternative materials find themselves having to change their roof (or repair it) every 20 years or so.
3. It is Attractive and Appealing
When it comes to beauty and elegance, there are few roofing materials to rival roofing slate tiles. No other material, or even other roof tiles types, come close to the peerless look and appeal of slate based tiles. It may appear, at first glance, that a natural material should be limited in the range of looks it can provide. But nature is indeed magical, and you can find slate tiles roofing material in a wide range of tints and patterns, thickness and colors. Roof tiles types come in grey and green, purple and black, and even a distinctive shade of red.
4. It is Fire Resistant
Roof tile material made of slate are resistant to fire. It is just as if you have layered slabs of stone on your roof, so tile roofs are the most fire-resistant option of all kinds of roofing materials. This makes slate tiles an ideal option for homes built in areas with risk of forest fires and can guard against accidental sparks in the kitchen.
5. It is Environment Friendly
Lasting for decades, slate tile roofs won’t be a concern for landfill overflows in a city. Asphalt roofing as well as other kinds will need an overhaul every 30 years or so. The old roof that is torn down will be returned to a landfill, stressing the environment in a way that’s hard to imagine. City planners are always concerned about this impact, and must constantly seek places to accommodate the growing demand for landfill area. In this sense, slate roof tiles have a very low adverse impact on the environment.
Top Of The Range – Dependable, Upmarket And Tough Slate Roofing Tile
Slate roofing has been used for quite a while, and for an excellent reasons. Slate roofing is a durable and durable building material that is easy to work with and extremely tough. As roofing, it’s famous for its long-lasting properties. Roofs made of slate are said to last longer than homes. It is the best choice for those who desire good design and great looking roofing.
Slate roofing design options
Slate roofs are in a class in their own. They are strong and reliable materials that are sought-after by builders, architects and designers. The most premium option in roofing slate is Welsh Penrhyn, a type of slate which has been mined continuously for over 300 years. The current product life of this slate is currently 200 years. Modern Canadian and
Spanish slates are certified to last for 75 years. Stone can only last this for this long.
For aesthetics slate roofs are typically used for their dependability for all kinds of conditions. Slate’s qualities are a good source of information for the reputation it has earned as a roofing material.
- Stone with high density
- Insistent on salt’s effects
- Fireproof
- Resistance to heat and pollution
- Slate doesn’t fade
- Natural and natural color.
Conventional roofing tiles are basically like ceramics or bricks. They don’t have the same amount of density as slate and they don’t meet the other attributes. Designers, slate is simply the better option.
Slate roofs are genuine stone with an aesthetic appeal that is higher. Slate can also be utilized to create intricate roofing designs.
Small or big slate roofing can do everything
The usage of slate roofing on everything has been a tradition for centuries, from cathedral roofs to cottage roofs. This is a good illustration of the versatility of slate roofing and the way it can be utilized for any roofing task. There’s a good reason for that. Traditional roofing is expensive, and replacement adds cost over time. The slate roof does represent an actual value to homeowners. Numerous roofing companies don’t offer slate roofing. This is especially true in the US where slate roofing is highly sought-after and can withstand heat waves and blizzards.
Getting a quote
It is a good idea to calculate and plan your slate prior to looking for slate.
- From your plans, define the roof’s area. This is a square metre area which is sufficient for a reliable estimate.
- To get an idea about the cost ranges, take a to look at the various types of slate roofing offered.
- Select the colour scheme you prefer. Slate may have subtle color variations depending on its composition. It can be a light or light grey, or a dark grey or a blue.
Slate Roof Tiles Stand the Test of Time
There are many options available for homeowners looking to replace a roof. There are a myriad of designs and colors and even the materials themselves it is advisable to conduct a thorough study prior to investing money in the construction of a new roof. Some roofing materials include composition shinglesmade of fiberglass or asphalt roofs made of steel and metal as well as slate and clay roof tiles. These styles will last anywhere from 20 to over 100 years and differ in price and benefits just as much.
Composition shingles made from asphalt or fiberglass offer an extremely durable roofing option. These shingles can be installed on the existing roof and are easy to install. They come in various styles and colors, and they are able to be replaced if they become damaged by strong winds. Recently, metal roofing has gained popularity because it can reduce energy bills up to 20%. It’s also simple to maintain and comes in a variety of beautiful styles and shades. These options are robust and cost-effective, with a the lifespan between 20 and 30 years.
To have a roof that is guaranteed to last at minimum 100 years and give your house an elegant, distinctive appearance the best option is clear…slate roofing tiles. These shingle-like slivers created from natural stone have a distinctive timeless aesthetic. They come in a wide range of beautiful natural tones. It is vital that the slate roof is installed by a skilled professional. Once installed it will require minimal maintenance. The slate roof will not be prone to rot or insects that cause damage. Anyone who is required to enter the roof should take extra care since tiles are easily damaged. A slate roof is costly for homeowners. Because of the additional weight of the tiles, structural work could be required prior to roofing. A slate roof will cost more than conventional roofing materials but will last five times longer.
No matter the type of material you choose roofing, it is an investment.
What You Need To Know About Slate Roofing Tiles
Roof tiles are applied to the roofs of both residential and commercial buildings. Roof tiles are used to safeguard your home from the elements such as hail, sun, snow, wind, and wind. The tiles also protect the structural framing system from damage by keeping it dry and covered.
Based on the way in which the materials were placed, they help in increasing the insulation levels thus keeping your home cool even in hot conditions.
Additionally tiles, they provide your home with a stylish appearance that is appealing to a large number of people.
Types
There are various kinds of tiles: clay, cement and slate are the primary types. Clay tiles are traditional tiles, and are baked using natural clay to get rid of moisture. Concrete varieties are made from cement and tend to be cheaper than clay tiles.
Slate products are made of natural stones and are typically preferred by lots of people because of their distinctive design and look.
Both clay and concrete versions are made with “U” as well as “S” shapes; however, there are other versions which are flat and some that feature interlocking designs.
Advantages
The main advantage of these roofing materials is the fact that they are flexible and durable. These materials are fire-resistant and are able to be repaired if damaged by wind or other elements.
Another great advantage is that you don’t have to paint them for they to keep their look which means you can save money.
Negatives
They have many advantages, but they also have certain disadvantages. The downside is that tiles are typically very heavyand buildings may not be able to handle their weight unless specifically designed to support them.
Tiles are more costly than the other roofing materials and they may be hard to pay for in many. Installation of the tiles requires special skills thus it is necessary to engage a professional to set up the tiles for you.
Installation
The materials are usually placed over the roof sheathing as the barrier to moisture. It is possible to install flat tiles directly on your roof deck. However concrete tiles, round or rounded require steel battens made of wood or wooden lathes for installation.
To make sure that the installation is done correctly, you must employ a professional to offer professional services and make sure your roof lasts for long duration.
Slate and Tile Roof Repair – Do You Need an Expert Roofer to Find Leaks?
A leaky roof is an issue for homeowners and the actual cause may result from a myriad of factors. What you may see as the primary issue might not be the case, and fixing just that may not resolve the issue. It is often difficult to pinpoint the cause of chimney leaks. Although there might be an obvious primary problem however, there may be other issues. An experienced roofing professional can determine the source of a leak and repair it.
These are only a few reasons why a roof leaks.
- Flashing problems– Flashing is a small metal piece that is placed in seams and joints to stop water from entering. There are several kinds of flashing available, including copper, which is a common element in older homes and churches. This could lead to cracks and degraded flashing around a chimney. In this scenario the flashing around the chimney would need to be removed and replaced by new hand-soldered flashings.
- Gutters If a part of gutter near the chimney isn’t draining properly, the water may be able to get into the chimney and appear as a chimney leak. Regularly cleaning gutters and downspouts, as well as relining or adjusting hanging guttersis needed to address the issue. There are many different types of gutters that are made of different materials. In certain older homes, you may even find yourself in the situation of having 2 or 3 different types of gutters on the same property!
- Defects in roofing materials – For an slate or tile roof, a missing or broken slate or tile could easily lead to an issue with a leak. Old, worn-out or damaged underlayment can be a problem for a tile roof. In the case of asphalt roofing, the roof material itself might be at the end of its service lifespan. Damage from storms is another frequent cause of leaks in any roofing.
It is essential to have a skilled roofing contractor to check your roof every year. Inquire about the inspection of your gutters and roof to make sure they are functioning as intended. Galvanized gutters as well as copper gutters can rust over time. When gutters don’t remove melting snow and rainwater away in a timely manner, water may back up under the roofing surface , causing invisible leaks. If the gutters are not effectively draining rainwater and melting snow, it can lead to roof damage.
Slate Roof Tiles FAQs
What Are the Pros and Cons of Slate Roofing?
It’s low maintenance, ages beautifully, requires few repairs, and has a unique appearance. And unlike some other roofing materials, slate is eco-friendly with no asphalt, fiberglass, or plastic components.
Disadvantages include complications replacing a broken tile, the higher cost, and the extra care it takes to make sure it’s properly installed.
Can my home support the weight of a slate roof?
Most homes can. You may have heard about slate roofs that failed within a couple years of installation. It’s generally because the underlying structure was weak to begin with. Since slate is heavier than most roofing materials, it’s important to have a professional slate roofing contractor test the roof’s support capabilities.
How long will my slate roof last?
Slate is natural stone that is millions of years old. The S1 grade that is mined in North America is strong, dense, and durable and, as long as it isn’t sealed or painted, can last for hundreds of years on a roof. Slate roofs also do not hold up well to foot traffic which could snap, perforate, or dislodge tiles.
Is a slate roof difficult to maintain?
Slate is naturally waterproof and non-combustible which makes it ideal for protecting your home in the event of a fire. Highly resistant to heavy rain and wind, it also is not affected by mold or fungus. All these traits add up to a practically maintenance-free roof.
Does slate only come in gray?
No, slate’s color options include green, plum, red, and black, as well as mixed color variations that naturally occur. Your slate roof will truly be one-of-a-kind!
How much does slate roofing cost?
It depends, and costs vary broadly depending on thickness, weight, roof pitch, and ease of installation. Estimates range from $10 to $40 and more per square foot.
Do I need a specialist to install a slate roof?
A slate roof is more of an art form so it’s typically not a good DIY project. To protect your investment, it’s best to find a fully-trained professional to install slate roofing projects.
Slate Roof Installation
Mighty Dog Roofing provides the the best choice for roofer slate roof installers located at Plano Texas. Our Plano slate roofers are some of the best in the region. This makes them among the best roof contractors in Plano. We’ve been installing slate roofs for nearly sixty years. Because we know how vital these components are, we will not cut corners. We can be trusted to provide an excellent product and service.
Slate Roof Installation With Hip and Ridge Joints
Slate roofs are preferred by many as they are among the best types of roofs. Though the installation cost quite a bit of money, slate roofs are great in improving the general appeal of the housing. Usually, homes with this type of roof installation have higher values.
Slate roof installation involves setting the hip and ridge joints. Before slating the roof, furring strips along the hip need to be installed. The standard thickness of slates is 3/16″ to 1/4 “. For slates with this thickness, 3/4″ furring strips are recommended. Nail these furring strips to the roof using 2.5″ hot dipped galvanized common nails.
On the bottom of the furring strips, install the first piece of the copper flashing using 1.5 copper roofing nail. To hide the furring strips, fold the bottom of the flashing.
Slate roof installation follows after the copper flashing has been nailed and folded. Install the slates over the flashing by nailing them into the furring strips. 1.5 copper roofing nails can be used but certain areas need to be attached with 2.5 copper roofing nails.
Install the next piece of step flashing over the hip slates. For this, a single nail will do. After this, nail the next pair of hip slates over it with at least two nails per slate. Fold the flashing lengthwise in half with 4″ in each side. With this, the overlying slates and flashings, the 16″ hip slates are to be overlapped halfway. Meanwhile, the step flashings would be overlapping each other by 2″.
Continue the setting up in this manner, flashing over the top of each pair of hip slates. The hip slates can be installed even without cutting and they do not to be tapered as well. To finish quickly, install the slates in pairs, not one side at a time.
Slate Roofing Made Easy – Choosing The Right Tools And Materials
It is recommended you do your research prior to building a slate roof. You must be prepared to succeed. Be sure to know about the different types of slate, manufacturing methods Flashing, sheathing nailing and other materials before you begin.
Before you install a slate roof, you must make sure your roofing is in good shape. The slate roof shouldn’t be put up at a lower slope than 4:12. This means at a minimum of 12 feet elevation on 12 feet of run. If your roof meets this condition, give thought to buying the right slate tools, and then purchasing the slates and other materials you will need to complete the task.
Tools
Find the right tools for slating and utilize them. Your basic toolkit will include a slate ripper, a slate cutter, and a slate hammer. Make use of a slate cutter not a diamond-cutting saw, when cutting slates. The latter will produce an edge that is bevelled on the slate that matches the design of all other slates. However, a diamond blade will produce the appearance of a square edge. unnatural.
Slates
There are many different slates available. Not all are equal and you want the correct slates for your roofing. Think about the quality and thickness, size and kind of slate you’re considering when choosing the right one. For instance, large slates are more difficult to cut. Likewise, small slates take longer to set up because there are fewer of them.
Verify that the nails are at the right place on the slates. The holes must be placed so that they allow the nails to be just above the head of the slate that is underneath. If the nail holes are too shallow, you’ll be nailing right through the top of the underlying slate and you should never do that as it can cause leaks.
Make sure that you purchase the right amount of slates. You should work out your head lap in advance and purchase enough slates to accommodate this. It is best to order starter course slates separately. You want the nail holes for your starter course only along the top and on the front of the slate.
Materials
Slate Nails
A good nail is essential. Make use of stainless steel or aluminium nails for slate nails. In coastal areas , copper nails are preferred, and in extremely harsh conditions silicon-bronze nails are the best.
The correct length of nails is essential. Your nails should be able to go through the decking boards of your roof when installing them. This is important since if they are too long, they will go right through the board, breaking and splitting the wood in the back. This reduces the thickness of the boards as well as the holding power of the nails.
Decking materials
The decking materials under the slate should be as tough as slates. Tested and proven materials that meet this requirement comprise of battens and wood boards between 20 and 40mm in thickness. They are able to be rough-sawn or designed or even feature a tongue-in-groove design. Other decking materials that are durable include concrete, which can be nailed and Gypsum. Avoid laminated and plywood.
Underlay
Roofs made of slate don’t require underlay. The underlay is essentially the water barrier from the time the slate tiles are laid down and the flashings are sprayed. It also acts as a substrate for chalk lines. A one-layer of 30lb felt is enough in most instances.
Flashing material
Make sure you use a good flashing material. It is possible to use copper, stainless steel, or sheet lead. It is recommended to use a stronger material for gutters and valleys rather than ridges or chimney flashings.
Slate Roofing For Your House
Before you start to install slate roofing on your home on your own There are a few points to be aware of. We will go over the different issues that come with slate roofing. The first thing to do is ensure that the roof slopes greater than 4:2. Also, the slope should have a rise of four feet over a distance of 12 feet.
Roofing Materials
The basic tools for roofing slates include a slate ripper, cutter and the slate hammer. If you don’t wish to end up with slates that have a square edge then avoid using a diamond saw and stick to the slate cutter that gives you a nice finish.
Slate Variety
As with all construction materials, slates come in various kinds. Slates come in a variety of material and quality and also in varying dimensions and thickness. The slate you pick will impact the way you build your roof up. There are nail holes in slates and you need to ensure that slates that are placed to permit the nail to be inserted onto the slate’s head. This will ensure that there won’t be any leaks.
Once you’ve selected the kind of slate you want be used to build your roof, get the correct quantity of slates. You might find that the slates you ordered aren’t available anymore, and you need to go back to the store. Get additional slates in case some plates could get damaged in the process of building your roof. You can buy the slates for your starter on their own.
Other Materials
Slate roofing will use many nails. Choose stainless steel or aluminum nails to prevent rust. The best choice is copper nails when you live in harsh climate zones. The length of the nail is vitally important for slate roofing as the nails must be far enough into the deck of the roof. If they are not, it could cause damage to the wooden boards.
You will also utilize decking products. Because they’re under the slates, they must match the length of the slates you bought. Avoid plywood and wooden decks made of laminated wood. You can also include an underlay in order to prevent the water from evaporated until the slates are laid.
Slate Roof Repairs – The 100 Year Roof!