Slate Roof Installation
Nationwide Services
Slate roofing systems are among the oldest and most iconic on our architectural landscape today.
Slate roof tiles have been used for centuries because of their durability and aesthetic qualities. Everyday people are inspired by a slate roof on a church or historical building.
But for a slate roofing installation to remain intact, ongoing maintenance and care are vital.
If your building suffered wind or slate roof hail damage, it’s crucial to schedule a roof inspection promptly.
In some cases, inexpensive repairs can be made that could avoid the need for a complete slate roof replacement.
Let's start with the basics.
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What is a Slate Roof?
A tradtional slate roof installation includes overlapping natural stone slate roofing tiles securely attached to a solid roof deck.
Slate roofing systems provide commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings with long-lasting protection from water damage and pest infestations while delivering premium aesthetic benefits.
A traditional slate roof installation requires a sturdy roof deck and load-bearing infrastructure to handle the weight of the natural stone.
But advancements in materials now allow a slate roof installation contractor to offer property owners and managers relatively lightweight products that mirror old-world stone.
These are options that can be employed in commercial slate roofing.
Natural Slate Roof Tiles
Stone slate roof tiles are culled from quarries around the world. In the U.S., states such as Pennsylvania, Vermont, New York, and Virginia remain primary sources of natural slate roof tiles.
The stone materials come in a variety of shapes and the colors are largely driven by location and rock formations.
This class of historic slate roof tiles can last for 100 to 150 years or longer.
Concrete Slate Roof Tiles
Concrete has emerged as a popular and cost-effective way to manufacture slate roof tiles.
Typically made from Portland cement, the tiles can be shaped to emulate natural slate roof tiles and attractively dyed.
An adequately maintained cement slate roofing installation can last more than 50 years.
Metal Slate Roof Tiles
Slate roof installers now have an opportunity to offer property owners and managers a relatively low-cost way to mirror a historic slate roof using lightweight metal panels.
Metal slate roof tiles are incredibly diverse in terms of colors and patterns.
The applications of metal roof tiles are virtually limitless.
Composite Slate Roof Tiles
Ranked among the more durable products, a slate roof installation services company may recommend composite materials.
Like cement and metal, composite roof tiles can be selected in a wide range of patterns and colors.
While lighter in weight than stone and cement, composite slate roof tiles can last for upwards of 50 years.
Asphalt Slate Shingles
Designer shingle installation provides an appealing slate roof tile look through deep cut-outs and multicolored flats.
Asphalt slate roof shingles may not mirror natural stone, but they beautify a sloped roof at a relatively low cost.
A classic slate roof on church or historic structure often includes copper trim, copper flashings, and copper nails to enhance its aesthetic beauty.
Modern slate roofing systems may deploy aluminum flashings as well as galvanized nails and fasteners to maximize water removal capabilities and prevent leaking roof damage.
It’s important to work with an experienced slate roof installation contractor when selecting materials.
A reputable slate roof installation services provider will conduct a thorough roof inspection to determine if water damage has occurred.
If a leaking roof has led to water damage, the roof deck may be compromised.
When You Need Slate Roof Installation
Although a slate roofing installation lasts 50 to 150 years when properly maintained, it’s not uncommon for a severe weather storm to negatively impact tiles, copper flashings, fasteners, and sealants.
Following any extreme weather event, it’s crucial to have a roof inspection conducted to determine whether there are any minor cracks that could result in moisture penetrations and water damage to the roof deck.
Slate Roof Installation After Hail Damage
Natural stone slate roof tiles typically run about one-quarter-inch in thickness.
Now imagine a major league pitcher hurling a baseball at a natural stone, metal, cement, composite, or asphalt roofing tile.
That’s precisely what happens when a hailstone strike the size of a baseball pummels a slate roofing system.
Even a hail storm that produces ice ranging from quarter- to golf ball-sized chunks falling at high speeds is likely to dent, chip, and create cracks in some slate roof materials, leaving a wake of damage.
But what proves increasingly problematic is that slate roof hail damage goes unnoticed.
Too often, property managers believe a historic slate roof can withstand an extreme hailstone storm.
But cracks, dents, and impact to flashing and sealants can result in slate roof leaks that cause water damage to load-bearing supports.
These supports can become dangerously weak over time, prompting the need for costly building restoration.
Slate Roof Installation After Wind Damage
Roof wind damage can be obvious when asphalt shingles appear torn or sections of metal panels are loosened.
But slate roof wind damage is not always as straightforward as everyday people might believe.
A high-wind storm can pick up and throw debris at a slate roofing system that causes damage similar to a hailstone strike.
Less obvious forms of slate roof wind damage may involve loose flashing.
When aluminum or copper flashings are pulled by strong winds, it fails to effectively provide water removal.
Galvanized and copper nails can also pop up, allowing moisture to seep into the roof deck.
In addtion to that, some strong winds can cause slate roof tiles to "chatter" and crack as wind creates forces that move individual tiles.
These are reasons why it’s crucial to have a thorough roof inspection conducted to ensure minor slate roof wind damage doesn’t lead to a costly restoration project later.
Slate Roof Installation After Hurricane Damage
When a hurricane makes landfall, the question is not whether hurricane roof damage occurred.
It’s whether the damage from extreme winds and flying debris calls for repairs or slate roof replacement.
Some level of hurricane roof damage is almost assured because a Category 1 storm generates winds higher than 74 mph.
A Category 2 storm devastates communities with winds above 100 mph.
That means metal roof panels lift, asphalt shingles tear, and natural slate roof tiles are hit by flying objects.
Aluminum and copper flashing and sealants securing ventilation pipes are likely to sustain hurricane roof damage.
A prompt roof inspection and emergency roof repair can prevent further and unnecessary losses.
Slate Roof Installation After Tornado Damage
Property owners with a modern or historic slate roof too often think only a direct hit results in tornado roof damage.
Truth be told, tornados often completely destroy commercial, agricultural, and residential buildings they trek over.
Tornado roof damage, by contrast, occurs in three ways. The first involves high winds that range from 40 mph to more than 300 mph, depending on storm intensity.
Secondly, tornado roof damage occurs because twisters are notorious for lifting objects and slinging debris through centrifugal force.
That debris strikes siding, gutters, and slate roof tiles indiscriminately.
Lastly, the vacuum-like force produced by twisters pulls at everything around it.
Slate roof tiles, panels, flashing, and copper trim may be compromised. The reality is there are no near misses in terms of tornado roof damage.
That’s why it’s critical to enlist the support of a slate roof installation services professional and have a thorough inspection conducted for tornado damage.
My Slate Roof Leaks
Anytime a leaking roof becomes evident to property owners or tenants, promptly contacting a slate roof installation services provider saves money.
Slate roof leaks lead to structure damage, equipment losses, and diminished lease value in commercial investment properties.
Even the slightest sign of water damage means a larger slate roof leak problem exists.
If you see any of the following telltale signs of a leaking roof, time is of the essence to procure slate roof leak repair services.
- Damaged, Torn, or Missing Asphalt Shingles
- Cracks in Slate Roof
- Loose Metal Slate Roof Tile Panels
- Dried Out Sealants Around Ventilation Pipes
- Damaged Aluminum or Copper Flashings
- Fasteners or Copper Nails Sticking Up
- Gutter Systems Backing Up
If there are signs of water spots or discoloration in ceilings, it’s very likely slate roof leaks have persisted for an extended period or severe damage was inflicted by a storm.
After a professional slate installation contractor conducts a diligent roof inspection, decision-makers will possess a reliable report.
Signs You Might Need Roof Replacement
Determining the extent of hailstone or high wind roof damage a modern or historic slate roof suffered can be uncovered during the inspection process when a slate roofing systems specialist conduct due diligence.
Many of the signs that point to extensive water damage to the roof deck or outdated systems may not seem significant to people outside the construction trades. These often include the following.
- Moisture Around Windows or Doors
- Algae and Moss Growths on the Slate Roofing System
- Debris Setting on Areas of the Slate Roof
- Improperly Installed Slate Roof Tiles or Materials
- Slate Roof Appears to Be Sagging
- Missing Slate Roof Tiles or Materials
- Gaps in Sealants or Missing Copper Trim
The information included in a detailed roof inspection report highlights the inherent damage, condition of structure supports, and potential longevity.
A roof inspection also serves as a vital document to expedite insurance claims in the event you require slate roof replacement in the future.
Slate Roof Hail & Wind Damage Photos
What a Slate Roofing Company Does
A slate roof installation contractor works tirelessly to provide invaluable services that include routine inspections, maintenance, repair, and replacements to protect the structural integrity of a building and its contents.
During the roof inspection process, trained technicians assess the outer layer, roof deck, gutters, and structural supports.
A review of the building’s energy consumption will be weighed against the average usage of others with similar square footage and climates.
Costly energy losses are typically the result of a malfunctioning slate roofing system.
If a slate roof replacement proves necessary, an experienced contractor brings the roof deck and other elements up to current safety and building code standards.
When an extreme weather storm hits, slate roof installation services organizations deploy emergency repair teams to secure modern, historic, and the classic slate roof on a church to prevent water damage until a permanent solution can be brought to bear.
If interior water damage occurs, a full-service slate roofing contractor can also help with water damage restoration to repair and restore the building's interior.
We also connect property owners and managers with a reputable public adjuster firm to fast-track the insurance claims process and negotiate a full, fair settlement on your behalf.
Basically, slate roof installation services providers do everything possible to protect commercial, industrial, institutional, and historic slate roof buildings.
Can my slate roof be repaired?
But when water damage weakens structural supports in the roof deck, slate roof replacement may be the safest option.
Can cracked or loose slates be replaced?
After a color-matching process, the right slate roof tiles can be procured and damaged ones replaced.
How long does a slate roof last?
Metal systems can run 50 to 75 years, composite materials can last 50 years, and asphalt shingles about 25-40 years. Routine roof inspection and ongoing care maximize the return on investment.
Do you work with insurance claims for slate roof repair?
We coordinate slate roof replacement and repair with key stakeholders and possess a deep understanding of the insurance claims process.
How often should my slate roof be inspected?
An annual roof inspection identifies recent problems and a slate roof installation contractor can resolve them. This type of routine maintenance avoids unnecessary water damage and costly restoration.
The annual roof inspection report also serves as an official document in the event of storm damage.
What type of maintenance should be done on my slate roof?
If cracks in the slate roof are identified, they should be immediately replaced before moisture seeps into the roof deck and weakens the rafters.
Do you offer emergency roof repair for slate roofs?
We dispatch emergency roof repair crews to help property owners secure rooftops with tarps, shrink wraps, and other strategies.
Our goal is to minimize the damage and cost of slate roof replacement and repair.
How to Select a Slate Roof Installation Contractor
Slate roof installation requires an experienced commercial roofing contractor. Complex roof systems require careful craftsmanship and adherence to strict manufacturer standards. If your roof has suffered hail or wind damage, you will want a contractor that can work with you every step of the way. One that is able to perform emergency roof repairs as needed as well as total installation.
Look for a slate roof installation contractor with the following qualifications:
- Is licensed, bonded, and insured
- Experience in emergency roofing & repair services
- Experience installing the permanent roof solution your property will require
- Experience managing staged roofing projects that may require parallel tear-off and installation
- Experience working with insurance companies on roof damage claims
An experienced emergency roofer can help you avoid leaks and major problems and provide a permanent roofing solution that lasts for decades.
In 2022, RestoreMasters was ranked #29 of the Top 100 Roofing Contractors in the nation.
In addition to slate roof installation, RestoreMasters offers: all common types of roofing systems, shrink wrap roofing, roof tarping, loose lay membrane roofing, emergency roofing & repair, water removal, water damage restoration, mold remediation, catastrophic damage inspections, property damage documentation, testing & damage reports, fencing & perimeter security, disaster recovery services, permanent roof replacement, interior restoration services. and general contractor services.
Do you need roofing help?
If you are worried about storm damage or think you may have a roof leak... Contact us for a complimentary roof inspection & damage assessment › RestoreMasters is an experienced full-service restoration contractor - offering turnkey solutions including roofing, siding, windows & doors, interior restoration, exterior repairs & more. With offices nationwide, we are here to serve you!