Five Common Slate Roofing Mistakes

Slate isn’t the least expensive roofing option that is available to install, although over time it can save money due to its longevity. So if you have decided you want to build a new house with a slate roof, or are needing to repair or restore an older roof, the following are five common mistakes that you will want to avoid in order to get maximum value for your hard-earned money.

1. Hiring a roofing company that doesn’t have experience working with slate

Although slate has been around and used for roofing for hundreds of years now, not every roofer has the necessary experience or expertise for building or restoring a slate roof. There are a couple of do’s and don’ts that are specific to this stone. In order to get the beautiful, weather proof look that you want, you need to make sure that you select an experience, professional slate roofing team to do the work for you.

2. Failing to obtain detail specifications on the work that is to be done

Your work specification needs to include the beginning and ending date of your project, details on the resources and materials to be use, as well as the cost. Find out why each of the materials has been selected. For example, it is very important that the proper fixing nails to be used – usually stainless steel or copper are recommended. If not, then over time they might corrode and you will end up having expensive repairs.

In order to avoid mistakes occurring ask how the work is going to be done. Slate tiles should be walked on since that can cause them to break or crack. What systems is the tiler going to be using while renovating or building your roof?

3. Not considering what the finished look is going to be

Slate isn’t as uniform as concrete or clay tiles, so that is why it is very important that you understand that there could be slight colour variations when it is laid out. Ask the tile to lay some slate tiles out on the ground so that you can have an idea of what the finished look is going to be, so that you aren’t disappointed later on.

4. Failing to research your choice of tiles

There are different colours and profiles of slate tiles that are available, so make sure you obtain some expert advice from the roofers. Also do research on your own and consider a couple of different kinds before making your final decision. Make sure to retain a sample of the tile you select, and then check it against what is delivered before the installation starts.

5. Not asking about a warranty or work guarantee

What if the roof leaks two months after it is installed? BE sure to ask whether a warranty or guarantee is offered by the slate tiler on their work, for your peace of mind.

Slate roofing Sydney offers a warranty on all slate roof repairs and slate roof restoration