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Slate Roof Tiles

Slate roof tiles are easily one of the most desirable types of roofing material, due to them being extremely durable and being able to last up to 200 years in some cases, with the proper maintenance. Roof slate has been popular ever since the 1700s, with the first quarry being opened in Penrhyn in North Wales. We stock this iconic heather blue slate in both capital grade and country grade options.

How is slate made?

Slate is formed under intense heat and pressure, which is what makes it so hard. This hardness enables it to be resistant to things like scratching, weathering and fading, so not only does it maintain its sturdiness, but its visual appeal, too. Certain slates do lose their colour which is completely normal for particular types, including some Chinese slates, and these are called weathering slates and non-weathering slates. Weathering slates are great if you want to construct a completely new slate roof, non-weathering slate is more suitable for roof repairs; if you want to ensure the colour will match the existing slates and not fade over time.

Slate is mined and by creating small holes in the rock at a perpendicular angle to the slate, and then using controlled explosives to extract it. It is then cut to specific sizes and shapes using a diamond-cut blade, and any imperfections are washed off. The slate is then graded according to the declaration of performance.

Grading Slate

Slate tiles are graded using different processes to test its durability. The most robust and high-quality slate has grades W1, S1, T1 and A1. The main tests used are:

Water Absorption

The slate is ranked between W1-W3, W1 being the most repellent to water, meaning its water absorption is less than 0.6%.

Thermal Cycle

The thermal cycle test attributes the slate to how oxidisation affects its overall performance. If the slate has little to no discolouration without compromising its strength or structure, it can be considered a T1 slate. The slates are ranked from T1-T3 for this test.

Sulphur Dioxide

A sulphur solution is applied to test how much carbonate the slate contains. Carbonate causes the slate to split and crack, so if it is found to have anything below 20% carbonate, it can be classified as an S1 slate. These grades go from S1-S3.

Types of roofing slate

Here at Roofing Superstore, we stock a wide range of roof slates including both natural slate and man-made slate. Natural slate has many origins, each with their differing qualities.

Brazilian Slate

Now the second-largest producer of natural slate worldwide, Brazilian slate is known for its exceptional high-quality and grey and black (sometimes blue-black) colour options.

Canadian Slate

Canadian roofing slates are known for their resistance to weathering, UV rays and even acid rain. In particular, Glendyne slate is extremely robust which is why we stock only the best quality Canadian slate.

Chinese Slate

Although some Chinese slates can be weathering, our stock is the non-weathering type, and comes with a 75-year warrantee. Be rest assured your roof will stand the test of time with our top-quality Chinese slate.

Spanish Slate

Spanish slate is known for its highly preferred blue/grey tones, and most of our Spanish roofing slate meets S1, W1 and T1 standards.

Welsh Slate

Welsh slate was the first type of slate to be extracted, and has since been known to have the most durable properties. Penrhyn slate is renowned for its signature heather blue colour and is stocked here at Roofing Superstore.

Fibre Cement Slate

Fibre Cement slate, also known as man-made slate, or synthetic slate, is made from cement and fibres, bound together to form a firm and durable material, which mimics the properties and appearance of natural slates. These artificial slates are still robust and resistant, bhut are much more cost-effective if you are on a budget.

Repairing and replacing a slate roof

We also stock many products to help you repair and replace your existing slate roof, or to fit a new one entirely. We stock specialist tools and equipment to install your new slate roof. Slate roof repair involves finding the roof pitch, placing a membrane and battens, and finally laying the roof slate. This can be done using traditional hooks or lead to secure the lead in place. Check out our handy guide here for a more detailed explanation.

Still need more help and advice on which type of roofing slate is right for you? Get in touch with our expert team on 01752 692 760 or to get a free quote.

*Please note, our slates are normally delivered on a six-wheeled lorry (11m long & 2.4m wide), with a tail-lift facility to offload on solid, level ground with a pump truck.

Non-compliance with delivery restrictions may result in additional delivery charges. Additionally, should you specifically require a crane or small vehicle offload, notify us at the same time you order, as an additional charge may be incurred.