Is there a specific type of roof decking needed for natural slate roofs?
February 29, 2024I’ve been told that I should keep extra slates from my slate roof installation. Why should I do that?
February 29, 2024When it comes to slate roofing, the standard underlayment used is a 30-pound felt underlayment. This underlayment serves multiple important purposes, including absorption of minor condensation that occurs beneath slates during fluctuating temperatures. Unfortunately, a roofer inexperienced with slate may install an ice and water shield underlayment instead. This product is produced for asphalt shingles. and does not absorb any moisture. That means that condensation can build up between your slates and underlayment to the point of dripping run-off.
Further, ice and water shield self-seals around nails. This will be a problem when your slate inevitably breaks and needs to be replaced. What should have been a simple repair of a single broken slate becomes a large undertaking because the ice and water shield has glued nearly all the slates into place. If a roofer cannot install a leak-free slate roof without putting in asphalt shingle underlayment, you should look elsewhere. Don’t pay for a 100+ year roof and be dependent on a 10-year underlayment to keep leaks out!