A Few Questions and Answers About Slate Roofs

Natural slate is a metamorphic rock mined from the earth. It has been used as a roofing material for centuries due to its durability and aesthetics. The following are some relevant knowledge questions and answers about natural slate.

Is slate really as expensive as we guessed? And how does the cost performance compare with other roofing materials?

These days, slate is more reasonably priced than it is known for. On the new side, more modern mining and production facilities. On the other hand, a large number of new forms of coverage have been largely rationalized. The result is a significant reduction in labor costs, which ultimately has a positive impact on overall costs.

What is the price per square meter for a complete slate laying?

Prices depend on the type of coverage. But it also depends on local conditions, such as roof pitch, oak length, shape and number of windows, chimney, size of space, etc… You will receive professional slate roofers for your roof. Accurate quotation or use our price calculation mode in advance or take a look at the price report of the product

How long will the slate last?

Slate is an all natural product. Over centuries of architectural history and culture, it has proven its worth, surpassing beauty and longevity on roofs and fronts. It has proven itself to last 250 years, and the better the slate, the longer it will last, and in terms of durability, an excerpt from the American Slate Standard is worth mentioning here: Slate is generally considered the most durable roofing material. And if chosen properly and laid properly, in some cases it can be the most durable part of the entire building.

Are the slates also colored?

Durable shades of green, red, purple and mahogany are very rare in the world. The color comes from nature, just like the propaganda of colored slate, it is extracted from the interior of the earth without any additives.

Where did the color of the slate come from?

With a fine structure, slates are usually dark black (through high light absorption, such as blue-gray) or have other natural chromophore components, or green (through green mineral mud) or red to purple color (hematite ).

Is there asbestos on the slate?

Slate is completely asbestos-free. It does not contain any asbestos or any other mineral fibers.

Are slates radioactive?

No. Slate tiles are not radioactive. Wherever the slabs exist, natural radioactivity measurements are even lower than other rocks used for construction. However, in the former East Germany, the so-called “black slate” was made from uranium. These slates contribute nothing to slate tiles and are totally unsuitable for roofs and walls.

Compared with other roofing products, what are the advantages of slate?

long lasting. On a long-term basis, it is very economical in comparison with the initial cost and service life. High wind strength. Natural building materials. Cost-free waste disposal. Aesthetics (harmonious overall image). personality. There are hardly any architectural constraints.

What is the weight of the square meter after laying?

About 30kg on the roof, about 28kg on the wall, about 36kg on special shapes and 45kg on double undercuts.

What slope roof can the slate be used for?

Slopes greater than 22° require double undercuts (classical German tiles or rectangular tiles); other types of tiles have slopes greater than 25°.

Is there a special roof substructure required when using slate?

unnecessary. Only a conventional roof structure is required. Pre-coverage is a must, at least for V13. In the case of rectangular overlays, lathe slate fixing techniques can likewise be used.

How are the slabs fixed?

Three slate fixing pins or nails supported by rust-proof metal, hot-dip galvanized (minimum 50my), copper or stainless steel (V2A), as specified. The stone slabs up to 24cm on the wall need to be fixed with 2 steel nails. Also, use cramp hooks or sharp hooks (V4A) on rectangular curtain walls.

How to clean the slate: such as removing moss?

Because of the consideration of environmental protection, we do not use chemical reagents for cleaning, usually we use water and brushes to clean. In large areas, a steam jet fan can be used to provide low pressure cleaning at an appropriate distance. Let me tell you by the water, the moss on the slate has nothing to do with the slate itself, but with its location in the house.