Slate Roof Deterioration

Rain snow ice moisture is roof s enemy 1.

Slate roof deterioration.

These determine the density and composition of the slate. This problem is known as delamination. It can damage its structure cause mildew rot decking and even damage the insulation. 6 common reasons behind deterioration of your roof harsh weather is the main reason shingles deteriorate sooner than expected and the following elements are the most common culprit.

If the tiles look to have a powdery surface this means the tile is deteriorating and you ll need to replace it. The following guideline is provided to assist in the repair replace decision making process. Generally found on most slate roofs but replacement slates or flash ings may have been secured with inappropriate fasteners which may deteriorate prematurely. A professionally installed and well maintained slate roof generally doesn t require fastener replacement.

Consider the age and condition of the roof versus its expected serviceable life given the type of slate employed. Southern exposures are less important to the deterioration of slate roofs than with other types of roofs. Holes may form at the edge of the slate. Other commonly used modern building materials that depend on glue for their integrity such as laminates and wafer board will deteriorate long before the slate does.

Later when the building sagged settled or moved the framing pulls away from the chimney causing damage to the roofing slates and flashing and leading to leaks in this area. You can spot a sloped slate roof tile more easily from the ground. Two courses of slate on either side must be removed in order for a valley to be properly replaced. Older slate roofs that have been generally weakened are more affected by these elements than newer ones.

The usual decking to which slate tiles are nailed is solid wood 3 4 to 1 inch thick. Another common source of slate roof damage around a chimney is wear and movement caused by flashing leaks and in freezing climates frost. Calculate the number of damaged and missing slates. You can also check for gaps in the mortar joints along the ridge line.

More important is the direction from which storms approach because long term moisture related chemical changes deteriorate slate. Check the stability proper functionality and correct installation of snow guards lightning protection systems and other safety devices. However excess moisture may lead to a more rapid deterioration of these materials and necessitate their replacement at some point. Failure to recognize this problem and fix it can lead to rapid roof deterioration and complete slate loss.

Site conditions such as the roof pitch exposure to sun building moisture and ventilation and exposure to mechanical damage also affect slate life. The longevity of a slate roof is only as good as its support structure. Finally the new copper valley is replaced and the roof will be performing well for future generations. Is the number less than about 20.