It’s Spring! The warm weather has finally arrived, and you’ve managed to make it through another long cold winter. And with the warm weather, there’s plenty to do around the house and yard.
One often neglected Spring chore is to check your slate roof. While slate roofs are among the most resilient and durable roofing systems you can buy, winter weather, ice and wind can damage slate roofs from time to time. So, it’s important to inspect the roof each year to stay ahead of potential issues.
How to Inspect Your Slate Roof for Damage
You don’t need to climb onto your roof to check its condition. In fact, you can do a thorough preliminary inspection safely from the ground. Here is how to get started:
- Check the ground first: Look around the perimeter of your house for any broken slate or roofing debris, which is a sure sign that something is amiss.
- Use binoculars for a closer look: Grab a pair of binoculars and inspect the roof from the ground (or from inside the house if it provides a better vantage point).
- Identify compromised tiles: Look closely for broken, cracked, missing, or slipped slate tiles.
- Watch for efflorescence: Look for white or gray chalky patches or deposits. While these mineral salt deposits will not damage the roof themselves, they are often a warning sign of water damage and aging.
- Inspect the attic: Go inside your attic and check the underside of the roof deck. Look for water stains, damp spots, or mold, which are all classic indications of a roofing leak.
If possible, go into the attic and check the underside of the roof deck for water stains, damp spots or even mold, which all may be indications of roofing leaks.
Why You Should Hire a Professional Slate Roofing Contractor
If you find anything during your visual inspections, it’s best to contact your local roofing professional to let them address the problems.
- Safety first: Slate roofs can be incredibly slippery and dangerous to walk on. It is best to avoid going onto the roof yourself, even if the issue looks minor.
- Comprehensive checks: In addition to fixing individual slate tiles, a professional will inspect the metal flashings around your chimney and vent pipes, as well as your gutters and downspouts.
Protect Your Home with North Country Slate
North Country Slate is always here to support you and serves as your perfect partner for Spring maintenance issues. Why choose NCS?
- 100% Natural: Premium, durable quality.
- Weather Resistant: Highly resistant to moisture, chemicals, and completely unaffected by freeze/thaw cycles.
- Fire Safe: Non-combustible with a Class A Fire Resistance Rating.
- Long-Lasting Beauty: A North Country Slate roof adds unmatched aesthetic appeal and boasts a life expectancy of 75+ years for any home or building.
For additional information or for a list of experienced slate roofing contractors in your area, please call us toll-free at 1-800-975-2835 or submit a form on https://www.ncslate.com/contact/.