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Slate Roofing Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Slate roofs are a popular roofing option, especially because they’re designed to last. If you’re considering getting a slate roof or already have one, you might be interested in learning about some maintenance tips you can follow to make your roof last longer. 

What Is Slate Roofing? 

Slate roofs are constructed from slate tiles that are typically made from natural stone, although you can also get synthetic options. Synthetic slate may be more affordable, but it doesn’t offer you the durability of natural slate. If installed and maintained correctly, slate roofing can last you more than 100 years.

Here are some of the main benefits of slate roofing:

• Versatility: Slate roofs come in many variations, including different colors and shapes, so you can select an option that complements your home’s aesthetic. 
• Durability: One reason slate roofs are so popular is that they are incredibly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. 

Why Is Proper Maintenance Important?

While many people practice routine maintenance across many areas of their homes, people often neglect their roofs until it’s too late, and the problems have become more severe. Because roofs are a costly investment, tending to issues once they’ve reached the extreme can set you back much more financially than if you caught these problems early. 

Maintenance helps you tend to roof problems as they occur, allowing you to repair issues before they worsen. Improper maintenance could lead to severe roof damage — so much so that you may need to replace your entire roof. Proper slate roof upkeep leads to slate roof longevity. 

How to Care for Slate Roofs

Now that you know why properly maintaining your slate roof is essential, it’s time to consider some practical slate roof care steps you can implement to increase its longevity. 

1. Perform Routine Inspections

The first thing you need to do is schedule regular slate roof inspections. It’s easy to put off inspecting your roof, but if you have it marked down on a calendar, you’re much more likely to remember to perform your inspection. When inspecting your roof, look for any signs of damage.

The more often you do this, the easier it will be to spot areas of your roof that may need extra attention. Here are some things to inspect for during your inspection:

• Loose or missing slates: If any of your slates are loose or missing, you should replace them as soon as possible to prevent further damage or leaks. 
• Cracks or fissures: Cracks or fissures in your slates indicate that they have sustained some damage. Replace damaged slates as soon as you notice them to prevent further damage. 
• Damage to the flashing or seals: Flashing helps keep water away from vulnerable areas of the roof that are more prone to wear. If the flashing is damaged or the flashing sealant is pulling away, it could cause water damage to your roof, so it’s best to get this fixed by a professional. 
• Moss or algae growth: Moss and algae themselves may not be detrimental to your roof’s condition, but they create moist environments. Trapped moisture can cause water damage, and the winter’s constant freezing and thawing can crack your slate. 

It can be helpful to add these steps to a roof maintenance checklist so you always remember what to look for when maintaining slate roofs. Perform these inspections at least twice a year. 

2. Clean Your Roof

Clean your roof once or twice a year to increase its life span. Large pieces of debris falling on your roof can cause cracks, so removing them as soon as you notice them is best. You should also remove moss with specialized moss cleaning products. You need to leave these on your roof for at least 20 minutes, so carve out enough space for this if you plan on cleaning slate roofs. 

You should also use safe cleaning methods. Soft brushes are less likely to harm your slates than harsh brushes. You can also use a low-pressure washer if you feel comfortable doing so or hire professionals if you’re nervous about cleaning yourself. 

3. Address Damage as You Notice It

As tempting as it may be to put off repairing your damaged roof, a better course of action is to fix problems as they occur. Addressing problems promptly helps you prevent further damage. If the issue is minimal, like some moss or debris on the roof, you can try to fix it yourself. More severe issues with tiles, gutters or flashing may require professional repairs. 

4. Perform Proper Drainage Maintenance

While you need to maintain your roof, you must also remember that various areas of your home’s exterior affect your roof’s condition. Your gutters and downspouts are essential in directing water away from your roof. Blocked or damaged drains can cause water to back up, leading to water damage or leaks. 

5. Protect Your Roof Against the Weather

Your roof needs to withstand severe weather, especially if you live in an area with storms, tornadoes or other natural disasters. Weather-related incidents can cause a lot of damage to both your house and your finances. Nearly 60% of people say that extreme weather events will harm their finances. 

If you’ve recently experienced a storm or other weather problem, you should thoroughly inspect your roof, even if it’s not due for a routine checkup. It’s also helpful to clean up any debris that occurs with changing seasons. 

6. Hire Professional Maintenance Services

While the steps above can help you recognize and prevent damage, you may still require professional services to assist with fixing slate roof damage. They have the tools and knowledge to repair your roof safely and effectively. 

Many professional roof companies also offer other services besides repairs, such as cleaning or inspections, so assess your needs and find a company that can meet them. This way, you can have peace of mind that your roof is getting the care it deserves. 

Contact Cornett Roofing Systems for Your Roof Repairs

Cornett Roofing Systems is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience in various types of roofs, including slate. We care about our customers and want to provide you with a professional experience and excellent customer service. 

Whether you want us to clean, repair or install a roof, we have the expertise needed to assist. Contact us for a free estimate on your roofing needs.