While shaping and honing slate tiles is relatively simple to do, it does require specific skills and knowledge. Seek the expertise of a professional roofing company that specializes in slate the instant you notice broken or damaged roof tiles. Vigilance will prevent the usual set of consequences of a damaged roof: leaks, damage to interior beams and ceilings, and spread of the damage. The roofer will start by removing the nails from the affected area. Beware: if the roofer notices that your slate tiles are fastened with the wrong kind of nails, you may have a bigger job ahead of you that you expect. Regular nails, even the galvanized ones, can rust and cause the slate to deteriorate. Copper nails are the preferred fastener for slate roofing. Ideally, the slate tiles should easily slide away once the nails are removed; however, in older or severely damaged roofing, or if a coating is applied, the roofer may have to pull the tiles loose by spearing them with a slate hammer.

Your replacement tiles should be cut to match the original roofing tiles, and you should attempt to find slate of a similar color and texture. If you know which quarry your original roof came from, you’ll have an easier time matching the tiles exactly. The new tiles are placed into the site of the damage and secured with copper nails. The nail holes are plugged with another piece of copper. Tiles may also be held into place with straps or hooks. Repairing damaged slate roofing by simply applying sealant is not a good idea, as it is a very temporary fix whose ultimate result is increased difficulty in making future repairs to the slate. It may also degrade the appearance of the slate, dulling the finish, and could cause metal finishes like the flashing around the edges to rust.

If there is damage to more than just a couple of tiles, it is wise to examine the roof sheathing for damage and water entry. If there is evidence of damage to the sheathing, then check the roofing panels and beams beneath. Replace any damaged materials, and make sure they fit perfectly into the site of repair, without any dips, bumps, or seams. Make sure the wood you choose to replace damaged roofing panels is durable: pressure treated wood has been known to shrink and warp, which could make your slate tiles buckle and break.

The paneling should be securely fastened to avoid any bouncing when driving in the slate nails. Any irregularities like bumps and dips in the paneling will be reflected in the texture of the finished roof, and may allow water to enter in between the tiles. You may want to apply a waterproof coating to the roofing panels or use special waterproof roof sheathing if your roof has many eaves and overhangs. If storm winds cause your roofing tiles to blow off, it is a good idea to lay a tarp over the damaged area until you can get a roofer to make the repairs.

For all your slate roofing needs visit www.VirginiaSlate.com.

For all your slate roofing needs visit http://www.VirginiaSlate.com.

Author Bio: For all your slate roofing needs visit www.VirginiaSlate.com.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: Home, Repair, Renovation, Construction, Budget