Slate Roof on a Historic Building? Trust Repairs to the Experts

Slate is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and durable roofing materials. It was a popular choice among builders back in the day, which is why many historic buildings, especially churches, have slate roofs. While slate, tile, and terracotta roofs are highly regarded for their strength and enhanced toughness, such roofs require extraordinary care when it comes to repairs or restoration. Such tasks should be left up to experienced roofing professionals.

New Jersey Roofing Company is approved by the local Archdiocese to perform repairs on its churches, and we work on other historic buildings with slate and tile roofs in northern New Jersey, as well. Here, we detail the common challenges that come with repairing a slate roof on a historic building and explain how we overcome them to provide top-quality service.

What Is a Slate Roof?

Slate roofs are made from natural stone mined from quarries mostly located in Vermont and Pennsylvania. The longevity of a slate roof can range from 50 to 400 years, depending on the quality of the slate used and the quality of installation. One of the oldest types of roofing materials, slate roofs are admired for their stunning looks and ability to withstand the elements. Made from entirely inorganic material, slate tiles never rot or decay.

Challenges of Slate Roofs

Slate is a unique roofing material. Although it delivers timeless charm and a beautiful finished product, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Knowing and understanding these challenges is crucial for contractors performing repairs and other types of services. Factors that must be considered when working with slate roofs include:

Weight

One of the biggest differences between slate roofs and more modern roofing materials is the difference in weight. Slate is stone, and therefore extremely heavy. It is one of the heaviest materials used in roofing.

When repairing slate tile roofs, contractors must ensure the structure’s foundation can still properly support the weight. Failing to address this step can lead to potentially dangerous results for property owners.

Fragility

Slate is both heavy and fragile. When tiles are layered on top of each other in the traditional slate roof schematic, they are quite strong. However, individual tiles are brittle and fragile. They can be very easily damaged when enough pressure is applied to them.

Roofing professionals need to be aware of how fragile the tiles of a slate roof are when repairing it. Putting too much weight on slate tiles can cause more damage and ruin the roof’s overall appeal.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools is essential for any roofing repair job. In terms of repairing a slate roof, special equipment is needed to gain access to the roof and its sections, as well as perform the repairs.

To ensure the quality and efficiency of repairs, roofing professionals must possess the proper tools for servicing slate roofs.

Our Historic Preservation Roofing Services

At New Jersey Roofing Company, we specialize in repairing natural slate and terracotta roofs. We have the skills, equipment, staffing, and expertise necessary to handle repair jobs of any size or shape. To demonstrate to our clients the confidence we have in our repair services, we offer customer-friendly warranties.

In addition to professional repairs, New Jersey Roofing Company also offers other slate roof services, such as:

Maintenance

Slate roofs require professional attention to ensure they maintain their integrity and appeal. Clients can opt for maintenance plans offered at various frequencies. All maintenance services are performed by certified professionals with vast experience handling slate roofs. Slate roof maintenance performed by our team entails all aspects of our maintenance checklist.

Inspections

Slate roofs should be inspected at least once a year. While performing a thorough inspection of your slate roof, our team will be on the lookout for noticeable damage, weak points, and more.

New Jersey Roofing Company also offers detailed roof inspections using infrared tools to spot damage caused by wet areas. Detailed inspections also rely on advanced drones and aerial technology to get a better view of your slate roof. Clients will be informed of their roof’s condition with a written report and photographs.

Call the Slate Roof Pros at New Jersey Roofing Company

As a slate roof ages, the need for repairs will increase. Not all roofing professionals have the skill and ability to properly service historical buildings with slate roofs. Property owners seeking effective repair services for their slate roof must choose a contractor with the right knowledge, skills, and tools to perform the job.

Commercial and residential clients throughout northern New Jersey can find professional slate roof services from experienced contractors at New Jersey Roofing Company. We rely on our expertise to provide you with quality work for every job. Our various roofing packages allow clients to select services that meet their unique needs.

For more information about slate roofs and the services we offer, contact us today to receive a free estimate, or visit our showroom.