Slate Roofing Systems

First American Plaza, College Station, Texas

Slate is a dense, tough, durable rock which is mined from quarries generally from the eastern United States. Slate, which is practically non-absorbent, was formed over 500 million years ago. Roofing slate comes in many different sizes, thickness, and colors. The basic colors of roofing slate are black, gray, green, purple, and red. Exposure to weather causes all slate to change slightly in color. The degree of color change varies with different slates. That slate which exhibits minimal color change is called "unfading" slates. Those slates, which exhibit a more obvious color change, are known as "semi-weathering" or "weathering” slates. Roofing slate thickness is a standard 3/16 of an inch thick and can be up to 2 inches thick. The longevity of a slate roof can be any where from 50 years to 400 years depending on the quality of slate used.

The standard overhaul of a slate roof requires the replacement of metal flashings, broken or missing slates, or rotted wood. Roofing slates are nailed using copper nails. To repair a slate roof an experienced roofer trained in the repair and installation of slate roofs (also called a Slater) must be used.

You, as the property owner, can yearly visually inspect your roof safely from the ground for missing or broken slates. A pair of binoculars can be used. If you can get into the attic, you can inspect the roof sheathing for signs of deterioration. It is also a good idea every several years to have your roof inspected by an experienced Slater. To avoid more costly damage in the future, if you see any broken or missing slates or any signs of deterioration, call an experienced roofer specializing in slate as soon as possible.