Slate is a wonderful material that lends itself perfectly to roofing. The way it forms in natural layers makes it ideal for splitting into thin, uniform sheets that still look natural and give a slate roof a homely feel. Manufactured tiles often copy slate’s dark grey colour, blue tint and grainy finish, but they tend to look too smooth.
A slate roof needs some regular care. Here are the basics, along with a few less obvious points.
Plan your inspections
A roof is hard to check from ground level, so inspections need to be planned. Upstairs windows only give a partial view. Inspection is a job for a professional roofer, not for a drone or a selfie stick.
Fix cracks and check after storms
Have any cracks or movement fixed promptly. Check the roof after a storm, because wind can throw branches at the slates or lift them loose. Our slate roofers can replace individual slates before water gets in.
Keep trees cut back
Trim nearby trees so their branches cannot damage the slates.
Remove moss, lichen and algae gently
These growths fill the gaps between slates and disturb a carefully fitted roof. Gentle brushing or a chemical treatment will remove them. Chemicals harm the environment, so use them sparingly. Do not use a pressure washer, because it can damage the slates.
Check the flashing
Flashing seals the joints where the roof meets walls, chimneys and other protrusions. Cracked flashing lets water in even when the slates themselves are intact. Our lead roofing specialists repair and renew it.
Do not walk on the slates
Slates are usually laid on steep roofs, so avoid walking on them. Even a capable DIY enthusiast should hire a professional for this work.
Have the roof inspected once a year
The main tip is to have the roof inspected by a professional once a year. A local roofer will usually inspect for free, in the expectation of getting the job if repairs are needed. It makes sense to have a roofer you can call on, just as you have a plumber and an electrician.
A well-maintained slate roof adds value to your home, looks good and keeps the weather out, so regular care is worth it.
H Roofing is a slate roofing specialist in Central Scotland. Contact us today for more information.