Slate |
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| Description: |
| Slate has been a preferred roofing material across the globe for centuries. It is waterproof, fireproof, attractive, and very durable. The principal difference between slate and other stones is the natural cleavage of the former, which permits it to be more easily split in one direction than in others. Slate roofing systems can be divided into four classifications: |
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| Standard Slate Roofs: |
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| Standard slate roofs are those composed of slate approximately 3/16" thick (Commercial Standard Slate), of one uniform standard length and width, having square tails or butts laid to a line. Standard roofs are suitable for any building where a permanent roofing material is desired at a minimum cost. |
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| Textural Slate Roofs: |
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| The term "Textural" is used to designate those slates usually of rougher texture than the Standard, with uneven tails or butts and with variations of thickness or size. In general, this term is not applied to slate over3/8" in thickness. Varying shades are frequently used to enhance the color effect, which, with the characteristics just mentioned, add interest in line and texture to the roof design. |
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| Graduated Slate Roofs: |
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| The graduated roof combines the artistic features of the Textural Slate roof with additional variations in thickness, size and exposure. The slates are so arranged on the roof that the thickest and longest occur at the eaves and gradually diminish in size and thickness until the ridges are reached. The graduated slate roof presents many opportunities for variation and offers excellent possibilities for interesting treatment. The fact that it is especially designed to harmonize with the general character of the building of which it becomes a part or to meet exacting requirements of construction causes it to be frequently termed the custom-made roof of the industry. |
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| Flat Slate Roofs: |
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| Flat roofs offer a wide field for roofing slate, and are so designated whether or not they are used for "promenade" purposes. Slates of any thickness may be used in place of the slag or gravel as a surfacing material for the usual built-up type of roof. The body, weight and enduring qualities of slate make it highly desirable as a protection to the waterproofing beneath the surface, whether or not it is subject to traffic. |
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| Life Expectancy: |
| Depending on where it came from and how well it was installed, slate can last for as long as 200 years if properly maintained. |
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| Maintenance/Installation/Concerns: |
Regular maintenance should include cleaning gutters every fall and spring, and every 5-7 years inspect your roof for broken, loose or deteriorated slates.
Flat Roof Systems |
