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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
SLATE ROOF ISSUES
Slate roofs are one of the most durable and long-lasting options available. They can be found in many climates around the world, and provide an excellent option for your home or business. You won’t have to worry about replacing your roof anytime soon with this natural stone as its base material. It’s also very versatile so it can be used on both residential and commercial properties alike.
Slate roofing is a durable, environmentally-friendly material for your home
Slate roofing is one of the most durable and environmentally friendly roofing materials available today. Slate roofs are an excellent choice for homeowners who care about their impact on the environment, as well as those looking to make a long-lasting investment for your home or business!
Slate roofs are made from an abundant resource, making them one of the most conscientious roofing options available today. When slate is mined and processed correctly, it can be recycled over and over again without losing its integrity or strength!
While there are benefits to slate tile roofing, it is, again, not without its issues. Here are the most notable slate shingles problems to be aware of before you make your final decision.
SLATE TILES ARE HEAVY
One of the most significant issues with slate tiles is their weight. Unlike other options, slate roofs come with a significant extra weight that homeowners need to account for. These roofs can weigh on average 800 pounds per square foot, so it is critical to know a home’s framing can handle all of that extra weight. If a home is not structurally sound enough to handle that weight, the house can bow and even collapse under the pressure. Slate roofs are extremely durable and long-lasting, as well as being very attractive but, like any roof, they do experience their share of issues over time.
MISSING AND SLIPPED SLATES
Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, hail and snow, can result in slates becoming misplaced. Whether they are completely removed or slip out of position, it’s important to see to this quickly so that the roof doesn’t become compromised. Slate tiles can be easily replaced but it’s important that this is done by a roofing specialist.
BROKEN SLATES
As well as slates which go missing or slip out of position, extreme weather can also cause existing slates to break. This can be caused by extreme weather, but if many of your slates are broken or fractured it could be a sign that the slate is actually becoming soft and might need inspecting by a professional.
NAIL SICKNESS
Originally, nails used to fix individual slates into place to form the slate roof were made from iron or poor-quality steel. This means that they are likely to rust and decay over time. Nail sickness is a term used to describe the situation where this happens to multiple slates on one roof. If this happens, it is again important to get a professional roofer in to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
DELAMINATION
The texture of slate tiles is layered due to it being a natural material. When slate begins to approach the end of its life, the layers you see might begin to split apart and this is the process that we term delamination. If this is not dealt with quickly, it can lead to further problems with your slate roof such as breakages and leaks. However, the layers in slate can be distinct so be careful not to confuse naturally prominent layers with delamination. The most obvious signs tend to be flaking and gaps. Delaminating roofing slate, if the delamination is only in the upper surface layer of the slate the material may have substantial remaining life.
Also ask how many of the roof slates are delaminating at all.
FLASHING DAMAGE
Damage to the flashing is a common problem for all types of roofs and this is no different for slate roofs. The flashing is the sheet metal that lines and protects vulnerable areas of the roof from water. However, because it is typically made of metal, it is vulnerable to rust and corrosion over time. If this happens, the flashing will most likely all need to be replaced by a professional roofer.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE EXPERIENCING SLATE ROOF PROBLEMS
The best course of action if you have noticed any problems or signs of deterioration with your roof is to contact a professional roofing company who is experienced in dealing specifically with slate roofs. Although slate roofs are incredibly durable, there will eventually come a time when you experience problems and, when this happens, it’s best to deal with it properly!
