NSW SLATE ROOFING

Specialising in Traditional Slate Roofing

Call 1300 050 924

NSW SLATE ROOFING

Specialising in Traditional Slate Roofing

Call 1300 050 924

NSW SLATE ROOFING

Specialising in Traditional Slate Roofing

Call 1300 050 924

NSW SLATE ROOFING

Specialising in Traditional Slate Roofing

Call 1300 050 924

GET YOUR FREE SLATE ROOFING ESTIMATE NOW!


    HOW TO INSTALL SLATE ROOFING

    by | Apr 16, 2019 | blog | 0 comments

    Interested in a slate roof? Wondering what the slate roofing install process is like? In this article, we’ll give you an overview about slate, the duration of the installation process, and how a slate roof works.

    HOW TO INSTALL SLATE ROOFING | by NSW Slate Roofing Sydney

    1. Assess The Underlying Roof Structure

    Slate roofs are heavier than asphalt shingles and other types of roofing, like zinc and copper roofs. In some cases, the underlying home and structure may need reinforcement to handle the heavy weight of slate. The first step in the process is to assess the integrity and strength of the underlying structure. Moreover ensuring that the structure is strong enough to accept a slate roof. If not, extra steps must be taken to reinforce the roof, before work can begin.

    2. Install High-Quality Roof Decking

    When properly installed, the lifespan of a slate roof is 100-150+ years. So with this in mind, the underlying structural elements must be built to last this duration. Because of this, the most commonly-used roof decking material is solid lumber that’s at least 2-3 cm in thickness.

    Solid lumber is the best product to use for this, as other materials will not withstand the elements. Using inferior timber and could lead to premature failure of the slate roof.

    3. Place Felt Underlayment To Protect The Roof

    Slate roofs do not usually depend on an underlayment to remain watertight, but a felt underlayment should still be used to protect the roof structure while the slate tiles are installed. This underlayment will be removed when each row of tiles is completed, and the flashing for the roof is installed.

    4. Begin Installation Of Each Course Of Slate Tiles

    Each slate is nailed into place in a “course” using galvanized, copper roofing nails. 2 nails are used for each slate, with a vertical separation of about 3-4 cm. These nails are driven gently into the slate, and sunk until they are flush with the slate surface. Nailing the slate too deep can cause cracks and damage the slate. Therefore care should be taken during this step to avoid overdriving nails.

    Each slate must overlap with the lower and upper course, creating a head lap. The overlapping nature of slate tiles is what creates a water-tight roof. Without the proper head lap and overlap, the roof will leak. Hence that’s why slate roof installation is usually a job that’s best left to the professionals. Even minor mistakes in installation can result in serious leaks.

    HOW TO INSTALL SLATE ROOFING | by NSW Slate Roofing Sydney

    5. Install High-Quality Flashing On Valleys, Gutters, Chimneys, Etc.

    As slate is installed, copper flashing is placed in valleys, installed near gutters, chimneys and other gaps in the roof. Copper standing seam is preferred because of its long lifespan – because it can last over 100 years, it’s the perfect pair for slate tiles, which have a similar lifespan.

    Once all of the flashing is been placed, courses of slate are placed over the roof battens. Also underlay and flashing, until the roof has been completely covered, and the project has been completed.

    TRUST A PROFESSIONAL SLATER FOR YOUR ROOFING PROJECT!

    Installing a slate roof is a bit different, requiring specialised knowledge and techniques that not every roofing company can provide. But at NSW Slate Roofing, we offer the very best slate roofing installation in Sydney. If you need help with your slate roof, contact us right away for more information. Call NSW Slate Roofing on 1300 102 908.

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