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 a long time and with an excellent reason. It’s a highly reliable construction material, easy to work and extremely tough. It’s well-known for its durability as a roofing material. Roofs made of slate are said to last longer than houses. It is the best choice for those who desire beautiful design and attractive roofing.
Slate roofing design options
Slate roofs are in a class in their own. These are truly durable, reliable materials, preferred by architects, builders and designers too. The best quality in roofing slate is Welsh Penrhyn, a type of slate that has been mined continuously for more than 300 years. Its current recorded product life is 200 years. Modern Canadian and
Spanish slates come with a 75-year guarantee. This is the longest amount of time stone can last.
As a design element slate roofs are typically utilized for their durability for all kinds of conditions. Slate’s qualities are a good basis for evaluating its popularity as a roofing material.
- High density stone
- Salt isn’t affecting
- Fireproof
- Heat and pollution resistant
- Slate doesn’t fade
- Natural colour with good natural look
Conventional roofing tiles look very similar to ceramics and bricks. They do not have the same density as slate, and can’t match the other attributes. Designers will discover slate to be a better alternative.
The slate roof is a genuine stone and comes with a much higher aesthetic value. It can also be employed to create complex roof designs.
No matter if you’re seeking an enormous or small slate roof, it is able to be done
Slate roofing has a history of being used for everything from cottage roofs to cathedrals. That’s a good illustration of the flexibility and flexibility of slate roofing for any roofing task.Slate roofing rarely if ever requires replacement and is actually considered a value adding material when it comes to the value of your home. There’s a reason behind that. The traditional roofing system can be costly, and replacement can result in cost as time passes. The slate roof can provide real dollar value to homeowners. Numerous roofing companies don’t offer slate roofing. This is particularly true in the US where slate roofing is extremely sought-after and is able to withstand extreme temperatures and snow storms.
Getting a quote
When buying slate, you should make some calculations and planning before you buy:
- Define the roof area from your blueprints. The size of the roof is measured in square meters. It’s enough to provide a reliable estimation.
- For a better understanding of the prices, take an examination of the various varieties of slate roofing available.
- Select the colour scheme you love. Slate is a subtle variation in hue based on the composition, ranging from a pale grey to blue grey.
Slate Roof Tiles Stand the Test of Time
Homeowners looking to replace their roof will have a variety of options. There are a myriad of designs and colors as well as the material itself it is advisable to conduct some thorough research prior to investing money in a new roof. Some roofing materials include composition shinglesmade of fiberglass or asphalt, steel and metal roofs, and clay and slate roof tiles. These types of roofing last from 20 to over 100 years and differ in price and benefits just as drastically.
Composite shingles are made from asphalt and fiberglass, which are a long-lasting choice for roofing. These shingles are easy to install, and can sometimes be placed on top of the roof of an existing. They are available in a variety of styles and colors, and they can be replaced if they become damaged by strong winds. Metal roofing has recently gained popularity because it can lower energy costs up to 20 20%. Additionally, it’s very easy to maintain and is available in many attractive styles and colors. These options are robust and cost-effective, with a longevity between 20 and 30 years.
Slate roof tiles are a fantastic choice for a roofing that will last at least 100 years and will give your house a unique timeless appearance. These slivers of rock that resemble shingles are available in numerous natural, rich shades, and possess an unmistakable , timeless appeal. A slate roof must be put up by a trained professional, after which it requires very little maintenance. Your slate roof won’t be susceptible to rot and insect damage. It is essential to take extra care by all who have access to your roof since these tiles are easily broken. The expense of installing an slate roof is a major concern for homeowners. Because of the weight of these tiles it is possible that some structural work will be needed prior to installing a roof. A slate roof can be more costly than traditional roofing materials, but will last five times longer.
Whatever the materials you select roofing is an investment.
What You Need To Know About Slate Roofing Tiles
Roof tiles are used on the roofs of both residential and commercial buildings. Roof tiles serve to safeguard your home from the elements like sun, hail snow, wind and wind. The tiles also protect the structural framing system from damage by keeping it dry and covered.
They can boost the insulation on your roof and help keep your home cool in hot climates dependent on the way they were installed.
Additionally tiles also give your home an elegant appearance that is appealing to a large number of people.
Tiles with different types
There are various kinds of tiles: clay, cement and slate are the most common varieties. Clay tiles are the most common kind of tiles. They are made from clay that is baked to eliminate moisture. The concrete tiles are made of cement and tend to be much cheaper than clay ones.
The slate materials are made from natural stone . They are usually preferred by many individuals due to their distinctive design and appearance.
Concrete and clay versions can be constructed in U and S shapes. But, different designs are available, which are flat or feature interlocking designs.
Benefits
The roofing materials they use are versatile and long-lasting. They also are fire-resistant and easy to repair when they’re damaged due to winds or other elements.
Another advantage is that you don’t have paint the sake of keeping their appearance which means you can save a lot of money.
Disadvantages
Althoughtiles offer these advantages, they come with a fair amount of drawbacks. One of the disadvantages is that they tend to be very heavy, consequently, buildings won’t be able to withstand their weight, unless the structures are constructed to take them.
Tiles are more expensive than other roofing materials, and they are difficult to finance in the majority of. They require specialized skills so you will need to have a professional install them.
Installation
The materials are typically set on top of roof sheathing and an air barrier. If you’re making use of flat tiles it is possible to place them directly on the roof deck; however when you’re using round clay or concrete tiles, you will require steel lathes or wooden battens for the installation.
Hire a professional to ensure that the roof installation has been completed correctly and lasts for for a long duration.
Slate and Tile Roof Repair – Do You Need an Expert Roofer to Find Leaks?
Leaking roofs can cause havoc for homeowners. There are many reasons. You may not see the issue you think it is. It is often difficult to pinpoint the cause of chimney leaks. Although there could be a clear cause however, there may be other problems. A roofing expert will find the root of the leak and repair it.
These are just some of the most common reasons for the roof to leak:
- Flashing problems Flashing is a thin metal piece, which is used in joints and seams to block water from entering. There are a variety of flashing available, including copper, which is a common element in older homes and churches. This can lead to problems with the flashing around chimneys. In this scenario the flashing around the chimney would need to be removed and replaced with new flashings that are hand-soldered.
- Gutters If a part of the gutter that is near the chimney isn’t draining properly, the water may find its way inside and can appear to be an issue with the chimney. Cleaning the downspouts and gutters on a regular basis and relining gutters on boxes or adjusting hanging gutters may be necessary to correct the problem. There are many different types of gutters that are made of a variety of materials. It is possible to have two or three different gutters on the same property in some older homes.
- Leakage of roofing materials A damaged or missing slate or tile can lead to a roof leak. In the case of a tile roof an old, worn-out or damaged underlayment could be the reason for the issue. If you have an asphalt roof, the roof material itself might be at the end of its service lifespan. Another reason that roofs suffer leakage is storm damage.
You really need an experienced roofing contractor to check your roof yearly. Request them to examine your roof and gutters to ensure that they’re performing the intended function. Copper gutters and galvanized gutters are likely to rust with time. When gutters don’t drain rainwater and melting snow away correctly, it can cause water to get trapped under the roofing surface , causing invisible leaks. If the gutters are not properly draining the snow and melting rainwater, it can lead to damage to the roof.
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 roof contractors are among the top in the area. That’ll make them one of the top roofing contractors in Plano. Since 1960, we have installed slate roofs. We understand how crucial these components are, we won’t make a mistake. We can be trusted to deliver a high-quality product and top-quality 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
If you want to install your own slate roofing, it is strongly recommended that you do some research in advance. It is essential to be prepared to be successful. Make sure you know about the various types of slate, the manufacturing methods, flashing, sheathing, nailing, and other roofing materials prior to you start.
Before installing a slate roof, you must make sure your roof is in good shape. Slate roofs should not be installed with the slope of 4:12 (4 feet of rise on 12 feet of run). If your roof is meeting these standards, then you need to think about purchasing the right equipment for cutting and the necessary materials to finish the job.
Tools
Make sure you have the correct tools for slating, and that you are using them. Your basic toolkit should comprise an a slate ripper slate cutter and a hammer. Make use of a slate cutter not a diamond saw when cutting slates. The former creates an edge that is bevelled of the slate, which is in line with the design of all other slates, whereas 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 roof. Take into consideration the quality of the slate, its thickness, size and kind of slate you’re considering when choosing the right one. For instance, large slates are more difficult to cut, while smaller slates are more difficult to put in place because they will have more of them.
Check whether the nails are placed exactly where they should be on the slates. The holes must be placed in a manner that you can put the nails just above the top of the underlying slate. It is not recommended to make holes that are too deep as it could harm the underlying slate.
Make sure you order the correct amount of slates. It is recommended to calculate your head lap in advance and purchase enough slates to be able to accommodate this. It is best to order slates for your starter course separately. The slates used for starter courses should have the nail holes on only the front and the top.
Materials
Slate Nails
Use good nails. Use stainless steel or aluminium nails to nail slate. Copper nails are preferred for areas with a lot of coastline, while silicon-bronze nails work best for severe conditions.
The correct length of nail is essential. When you set your nails, they should only penetrate the roof deck boards. This is crucial because too long nails can cause damage to the wood and lead to the boards to split or break the wood behind. This reduces the boards’ thickness and also the strength of the nails.
Decking materials
The decking materials beneath the slate have to last at least as long as the slates themselves, so you must select materials that can withstand the test of time. This requirement can be met with battens and wooden boards with a a thickness of 20-40mm. They could be rough-sawn designed or tongue-in-groove types. Other durable decking materials are concrete, which can be attached to a nail or Gypsum. Do not use laminated or plywood.
Underlay
Underlay isn’t necessary for slate roofs. The underlay serves as a barrier to water from when the slate tiles are laid and the flashings are applied. It also acts as a substrate for your chalk lines. A single layer of 30lb felt is enough in most instances.
Material that flashes
Make sure you use a good flashing material. Copper stainless steel, sheet lead are all appropriate. The material you choose to use will be more heavy on valleys and gutters , but lighter on ridges or chimney flashings.
Slate Roofing For Your House
Before you begin to slate roof your home on your own There are a few points to be aware of. In this article, we will discuss the numerous issues associated with slate roofing. The very first thing to verify is that your roof is sloped to a ratio that is greater than 4:12. The slope should increase by 4 feet for each 12 feet.
Roofing Tools
The standard tools for roofing slates include the slate ripper, cutter and the slate hammer. If you don’t wish to end up with slates which have a square edge, don’t use diamond saws and stick to the slate cutter that will give you a nice, smooth look.
Slate Type
Slates can be found in a variety of forms similar to other building material. Slates differ in their quality, material type and size, as well as of course, their thickness. The slate you choose will impact the way you build your roof built. You need to ensure that the slates are wide enough for the nail to go through the head of the slate. This will ensure that there is no leakage.
When you’ve selected the type of slate you’ll use to make your roof, be sure that you purchase the right amount. If you do not have enough when you go back to the building shop, you may find that the slates have been removed and you’ll have a roof which looks like patchwork. You may need to purchase additional slates in the event that some plates become damaged during the roof construction. It is possible to purchase the slates used for the initial installation on their own.
Other Materials
Slate roofing will use many nails. Use stainless steel or aluminium nails to stop them from rusting. If you live in an area where there are severe weather conditions then copper nails are the one to use. In slate roofing the length of nails is crucial. The nails should not exceed the deck of the roof. Any further will result in destruction to the wooden boards.
You will also utilize decking products. They must be the same size as the slates they are below. Avoid wooden decks and plywood constructed of laminated wood. If you’d like to, you can put in an underlay to keep water in until the slates are installed.
Slate Roof Repairs – The 100 Year Roof!
