Slate Roofing across Manchester and Cheshire

Why old slate roofs start to slip

Natural slate itself can last a very long time. More often, it is the fixings that fail. The iron nails used on many Victorian roofs corrode over the decades, and slates begin to slide out one at a time, a problem often called nail sickness. A few slipped slates can be refixed individually; widespread slipping usually means the roof needs re-slating.

Slate repairs

• Refixing or replacing slipped, cracked and missing slates
• Matching replacement slates in size, colour and thickness
• Renewing ridge tiles and hips
• Repairing lead valleys and flashings
• Repairs around chimneys, dormers and roof windows

Re-slating

When a slate roof is re-slated, the old slates are carefully stripped and sorted. Sound slates can sometimes be reused, often concentrated on the most visible slope, with new or reclaimed slates elsewhere. The roof gets a breathable membrane, new battens and correctly specified fixings, and all lead and flashing details are renewed.

Period and protected buildings

Slate roofs on listed buildings and in conservation areas usually need to be repaired or replaced to match. We can advise on suitable slates and details, and you should confirm any consent requirements with your council.