Slate Roof Deterioration

Site conditions such as the roof pitch exposure to sun building moisture and ventilation and exposure to mechanical damage also affect slate life.

Slate roof deterioration.

The rate of slate deterioration on roofs depends on the source quarry and the depth from which the slates were cut. Failure to recognize this problem and fix it can lead to rapid roof deterioration and complete slate loss. Finally the new copper valley is replaced and the roof will be performing well for future generations. Southern exposures are less important to the deterioration of slate roofs than with other types of roofs.

These determine the density and composition of the slate. Calculate the number of damaged and missing slates. Is the number less than about 20. The usual decking to which slate tiles are nailed is solid wood 3 4 to 1 inch thick.

It can damage its structure cause mildew rot decking and even damage the insulation. If the tiles look to have a powdery surface this means the tile is deteriorating and you ll need to replace it. How should information from the. Check the stability proper functionality and correct installation of snow guards lightning protection systems and other safety devices.

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. 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. You can also check for gaps in the mortar joints along the ridge line. The following guideline is provided to assist in the repair replace decision making process.

Rain snow ice moisture is roof s enemy 1. Older slate roofs that have been generally weakened are more affected by these elements than newer ones. More important is the direction from which storms approach because long term moisture related chemical changes deteriorate slate. This problem is known as delamination.

Once the wood deck is exposed any deteriorated wood must be replaced. Consider the age and condition of the roof versus its expected serviceable life given the type of slate employed. Generally found on most slate roofs but replacement slates or flash ings may have been secured with inappropriate fasteners which may deteriorate prematurely. You can spot a sloped slate roof tile more easily from the ground.

The longevity of a slate roof is only as good as its support structure. Holes may form at the edge of the slate. However excess moisture may lead to a more rapid deterioration of these materials and necessitate their replacement at some point. Two courses of slate on either side must be removed in order for a valley to be properly replaced.