How To Ensure Slate Roofing Longevity
If you have an older home and want to restore it to its original beauty, then you may want to think about using slate roofing. After all, slate is one of the oldest roofing materials, and it has an extraordinary beauty. However, there are some things that you will need to consider if you want to ensure the longevity of the slate roof. Keep reading to learn what these things are.
Adequate Slope
You probably know that roof slope is incredibly important when it comes to ensuring that rain and snow are properly channeled away from your roof. This is especially true when it comes to slate. Slate roofs are especially susceptible to water damage. Not only can water become trapped under the solid slate, but excessive water can also lead to the formation of unsightly mildew on the roof. And, if snow is able to pile up, then this can cause an extensive amount of weight to build. This weight in addition to the increased weight of the slate itself can lead to catastrophic roof failure.
When it comes to slate roofing, the greater the slope, the better. An 8:12 slope is preferred, and anything greater than this is better for the structure. Typically, a 12:12 slope or even more of a pitch is best.
If your slope does not meet the requirements for the slate, then speak with your roofing contractor to see if additional construction can be completed to increase the slope.
Also, keep in mind that a roof that is less steep will require more of an overlap when it comes to slate tile placement. This will increase weight and should be considered if you are weighing the pros and cons of additional construction costs to adjust the slope.
Proper Underlayment
As previously mentioned, slate roof longevity relies on the movement of water away from the roof. And, while slope is essential, you also need to make sure that a proper underlayment is secured. This way, water does not remain underneath the tiles to cause erosion and mildew from underneath the tiles.
You and your roofing contractor can decide on a traditional felt construction. This underlayment is the same one used for asphalt roofs, and it is a good option for slate. You also can ask about membranes that are more specific to slate and its unique challenges in regard to water mitigation. Specifically, during the winter months, ice dams are a concern and membranes are made to help reduce the formation of these dams.
If you want to know more about slate roofing and about the materials and practices that are utilized to ensure slate longevity, speak with a roofing company like Three Rivers Roofing.