Diagnosing Your Ailing Slate Roof
A slate roof is a complex system. Leaks often point to failing components, not the slate itself. This interactive guide helps you identify the real problem, saving you time and money.
Start Diagnosing Now1. Interactive Symptom Checker
What do you see? Select a symptom below to learn its likely causes, severity, and what to do next. This is the fastest way to understand a potential issue with your roof.
2. Roof Anatomy Explorer
A slate roof is more than just stone. It's a system of parts with different lifespans. Hover over the numbers on the diagram to understand each component's role and why it might fail.
Explore the Roof
Hover over a number on the diagram to learn about that specific component. Understanding how these parts work together is key to proper maintenance.
3. Common Damage Pathologies
Failures are rarely isolated events. One problem often leads to another. Explore the common categories of slate roof damage to understand the root causes.
4. Regional Climate Risk Inspector
Your local climate is a primary adversary to your roof. This interactive chart, based on a case study for Bucks County, PA, shows how specific weather patterns translate into direct risks.
Climate Stress Analysis
Hover over a bar in the chart to see the specific damage it can cause and the recommended inspection task. This demonstrates how environmental factors dictate maintenance priorities.
5. Getting Professional Help
Armed with knowledge, you can now make an informed decision. Learn when to repair, restore, or replace, and how to hire a true slate craftsman.
Repair, Restore, or Replace?
REPAIR
Best for a sound roof with isolated issues, like a few broken slates from impact.
RESTORE
For roofs where the slate is good but components like flashings are old. Replaces the support system to give the whole roof a new lease on life.
REPLACE
Necessary when slate is at the end of its life (powdery, delaminating) or over 20% of slates are damaged. More cost-effective than widespread repairs.
Key Questions for Contractors
- "How will you access the roof?"
Correct answer involves hook ladders or lifts, NOT "walking on it". - "What is your assessment of the slate vs. the flashing?"
Tests their understanding of the roof as a system. - "What method will you use to replace slates?"
Correct answers: "with a slate hook" or "the nail and bib method". - Avoid Red Flags: Be wary of anyone recommending pressure washing, tar/sealants, or insisting that walking on slate is okay.