Mastering the Craft: Essential Dos and Don’ts for Installing a Slate Roof

In the world of roofing material, slate is among the longest-lasting and the most durable. It's so long-lasting that some slate roofs from the 1800s are still in use today. This longevity and durability mean that slate is a very different roofing material than other types of roofing material commonly used today. Slate roofs have unique considerations that affect the installation process. If you're a contractor responsible for installing slate roofs on residences or commercial buildings, these do's and don'ts can help you find success.

Of course, working with the right tools makes all the difference. The FASCO® (a BECK member) F24 Slate Hook System is designed for slate roof installation. The system includes the Slate Hook tool for some of the fastest and most efficient slate shingle installations in the world. The FASCO® F24 Slate Hook System can be operated with just one hand, so it's perfect when working on steeply pitched roofs.

Slate Roof Do's

Do choose slate shingles carefully. Depending on where it was quarried, slate comes in various colors including green, blue, purple, and gray. Matching the slate to the building where it's installed can affect the finished product and customer satisfaction with their slate roof installation. Work carefully with the client and present the client with multiple options before they settle on the type of slate for their roof.

Do provide adequate headlap. Slate requires about two inches of headlap to provide the roof with adequate rain protection. An inadequate amount of headlap can result in damage to the roof and ultimately deterioration of the structure.

Do work with a consultant. Most roofers work with materials like asphalt shingles and metal, but not slate. If you're a roofer who doesn't often work with slate but would like to work with slate more often, find a consultant with expertise in roofing with slate shingles. A consultant can answer your questions and give you advice.

Slate Roof Don'ts

Don't walk on slate. Rooftop slate shingles are not meant to be walked on. Doing so can result in broken and dislodged slate, and ultimately, the deterioration of your hard work. Don't walk on slate unless you don't see a way around it.

Don't underestimate the importance of good roofing materials. Remember that rooftop slate can last as long as 150 years or longer, depending on how well it's maintained and how well it's installed. This means that your roof sheathing material needs to be at least as long-lasting. Lumber boards between 3/4" and 1.5" thick are generally adequate for this purpose. Standard woods like plywood, laminated wood, and particle board are not adequate for this job.

Don't cut corners on sheathing. Just like the decking material, the sheathing needs to be around for a long time. Invest in sheathing that has a longer than average service life will help ensure that the roof will last as long as possible without maintenance required.

The Tools Make the Difference

With long-lasting materials like slate, you can't afford to perform substandard installation. Using the right tools for your slate roof installation can help ensure that your slate roof installation will last as long as the slate itself. BECK's FASCO® F24 Slate Hook System is an efficient and easy tool to use for installing roof hooks without breaking the slates. The roof hooks are powerful enough to drive through strong wood decking. It's lightweight and easily complies with technical specifications for roofing with slates.

Make your installations last. Find out more about the FASCO® F24 Slate Hook System by clicking the button below.