Richmond Home has Slate Roof – What Now?
Have questions about maintenance and longevity or even wonder if your slate roof needs replacement? Here are some things to consider.
There are many types of slate used as roof shingles and lifespans vary from 75-150 years. Despite tremendous longevity maintenance is necessary and an annual inspection for cracked, broken, missing and loose slates is recommended. The most common problems with slate roofs are inappropriate repairs. A frequent example is the use of petroleum based products such as roofing tar which causes slate to delaminate, is unattractive and hides simple problems such as a broken slate. You need a roofer who really knows how to work with slate.
Even with proper annual maintenance slate roofs will not last forever. What are the signs that a slate roof will need replacement? Failing fasteners, usually copper or steel nails, can lead to rapid roof failure. This occurs when lack of regular maintenance or porous slate allows water to reach the nails that hold slates in place. The earliest slate roofs in Richmond were often hinged with tiny, steel nails prone to rust. In the 1920’s-1930’s copper wire nails with better durability became more common.
If slate has become porous, replacement may be the only cure. What should you look for? Substantial flaking (delaminating) on the face of shingles indicates porous slate. When you tap on a slate it should produce a solid, clear sound if is in good shape. A dull thud indicates that the slate has become porous. From your attic you can see portions of the underside of slate shingles as you look between the strips of wooden sheathing holding the slate. A powdery deposit on the bottom of the slates signals that the slate is porous.
Substantial areas of a slate roof may be repaired or replaced and result in a solid roof with years of remaining service. But, at some point it will make more sense to get a new roof than to make repairs.
A good slate roof adds tremendous appeal, character and ultimately, value, to older homes. Consistently using a good slate roofer to keep your roof intact is money well spent.
Best regards, Kent
Kent@RVAhomes.com cell: 804-221-1065
