Everything You Need to Know About Slate Roof Repairs
Slate is one of the most attractive and durable roofing materials. For this reason, slate roofing demonstrates the strength of nature and the skill of the artisan who painstakingly shaped and nailed it to the roof.
With correct installation, slate roofs may endure anywhere from 60 to 125 years or more, depending on the type of slate used and other factors such as the roof’s design and location. In fact some slates have been proven to hold up well for over 200 years.
It is not strange to see slate roofs on government, religious, and institutional buildings, where long-term durability is a significant factor in material selection.
However, farm and agricultural structures were frequently constructed with slate in the country’s quarrying regions, where the material is abundant.
In this blog, R&D Roofing will represent every possible detail of slate roof repairs.
How to Repair A Slate Roof?
Now, how can you fix the slate on your roof so that it continues to look excellent over time? Here is some critical aspects to remember when repairing your slate roof:
Inspect Your Roof Every Spring
It’s a good idea to inspect your roof for damage in the spring when you’re likely to need to clean your gutters and do other routine maintenance. Moreover, take a look at your roof’s slate tiles. Any complications that could arise, such as:
- Shattered slates
- Slates are “hanging” or “loose” relative to the rest of the root.
- The slate that has been harmed in any way.
- Roofing tiles that have missing slates, resulting in gaps.
To address minor roof problems, you may be able to do it yourself. It’s best to call in a professional if you detect a significant number of broken or missing tiles.
Ensure that You Have the Appropriate Equipment
Slate roof repairs necessitate the use of specialized equipment. Before trying slate roof repair yourself, have the following tools:
- A hammer
- A pry bar with a flat surface.
- A slate ripper.
- A slate saw to cut your new slate to the correct dimensions.
- A ladder.
Additionally, depending on your roofing system, you may require:
- Hooks are made out of slate.
- Nailing copper roof shingles down with copper nails.
- A copper necktie with a clasp.
- Refurbished slates
- It is necessary to use caulk and a caulk gun in this situation.
Slate Hook vs. “Nail & Bib Roof”: Know the Difference
The two most used nowadays are the “nail and bib” and “slate hook” techniques of slate roofing installation.
It is done by nailing each slate tile to the roofing underlayment with copper roofing nails. However, to prevent corrosion and water damage to the nails, a copper “bib” flashing is put over them and secured below the slate.
Instead, slate hooks are hammered directly into the underlayment with a long, thin nail. Next, the slate is lowered onto the pin and let hang loosely. The hook and the slate tiles that surround it on both sides hold the slate in place.
Before attempting to replace a slate tile on your own, make sure you know what kind of roof you have.
Watching Videos on YouTube Can Help You Learn
You’ve discovered damaged slates on your roof, determined whether it uses a slate hook, nail, or bib, and bought the necessary materials. Surely you’re eager to get started?
Even if you are a hands-on learner, watching an expert do it before trying it yourself is a good idea. You can find lots of Slate roof repair videos on YouTube.
Bottom Line
You’ll be able to do most slate roof repair chores on your own with the help of these suggestions and instructions. If you’re looking to repair a slate roof that has been damaged or discounted, you’ll need to hire a specialist.
Repairing a slate roof is best left to a professional slater like R&D roofing.
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