Historic Slate Roofs

A stone slate roof providing it is well maintained can last for at least a century and possibly much longer.

Historic slate roofs.

The relatively large percentage of historic buildings roofed with slate during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries means that many slate roofs and the 60 to 125 year life span of the slates most commonly used may be nearing the end of their serviceable lives at the end of the twentieth century. Overview the roof covering is a building s first line of defence against the weather. The history of slate roofing slate is a fine grain homogeneous rock that derives from shale sediment composing of clay or volcanic ash. Scottish slate is a long lasting roofing material and although slate roofs have a finite life a lifespan of up to or beyond 100 years is quite common.

It s wise to inspect slate roofs regularly to spot potential problems as soon as they appear. Although the installation cost of the roof will be high low maintenance needs will make the lifetime cost of the roof less expensive. The first recorded slate roof of a private home is reported to be in north wales england around 1300a d. It s malleable breakability yet tough qualities allow it to be broken into thin but durable sheets.

To repair and conserve them successfully necessitates the use of appropriate traditional materials and techniques.