FAQs
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Where can I find quality North Country Slate roof products and installation support in Canada and the USA?
You can find premium North Country Slate products and professional installation support across Canada and the USA directly through our headquarters in Ontario. We pride ourselves on being more than just a supplier; we are partners in your project’s success. Whether you are in the heart of Toronto or deep in the American Midwest, we coordinate the logistics of getting natural slate roof shingles to your job site on time. Our team also provides design advice to ensure the stone you pick fits the local vibe. If you’re looking for natural slate roof shingles with a rock-solid pedigree, we’re your first call. -
What are the top-rated natural slate roof shingles for residential installation in Canada and the USA?
The top-rated natural slate roof shingles for residential installation in Canada and the USA include North Country Slate products. For those in snowy Canadian provinces or hurricane-prone U.S. states, our S1-rated natural slate roof shingles offer the highest level of protection against hail and high winds. When people talk about heritage quality, they are talking about these specific products. Investing in these natural slate roof shingles ensures your home stands out as a masterpiece of structural integrity and classic style. -
Where can I find high-quality natural clay roof tiles in Canada and the USA?
High-quality natural clay roof tiles in Canada and the USA are available through our partnership with Ludowici, distributed across Canada by North Country Slate. While we have a deep-rooted love for stone, we recognize that some architectural styles, like Spanish Mission or Mediterranean, demand the warmth of terra cotta. These tiles are kiln-fired to withstand the same brutal temperature swings that our natural slate roof shingles endure. We showcase these stunning profiles in our Canadian design center, helping architects bridge the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern performance. Even if you prefer natural slate roof shingles, our clay selection offers a breathtaking alternative for custom residential builds.
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Are there installation guides or resources for natural slate and clay roof tiles suitable for Canadian and U.S. climates?
Yes, North Country Slate offers a comprehensive suite of installation guides and resources for natural slate and clay roof tiles suitable for Canadian and U.S. climates. We know that even the finest natural slate roof shingles can fail if they aren’t installed with precision. That’s why we provide detailed guidance on everything from proper headlap to the best non-corrosive fasteners. Our resources cater to both seasoned pros and meticulous architects to ensure every forever roof lives up to its name. By following our field-tested protocols for natural slate roof shingles and clay tiles, you ensure your home remains a fortress against the elements for generations.
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What are the main differences between a semi-weathering gray versus a semi-weathering gray/green?
North Country Semi-Weathering Gray is a rich battleship gray color with some minor dark inclusions that will weather over time. North Country Semi-Weathering Gray/Green is a blend of gray/green or sea green tones. As a natural stone product, a pleasing variance in color from pallet to pallet is to be expected. Blending slate from all pallets is required to avoid any unsightly blotches on the roof. Chlorite minerals produce green slate and carbon the gray tones. Color weathering of buff, brown and tan is due to the presence of calcite and iron compounds and fine-grained iron pyrite in the form of limonite.
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How would you compare the unfading black to the semi-weathering Vermont black?
North Country Unfading Black is a rich blue/black slate. It might be described as a dark charcoal grey. It is offered in uniform thicknesses of 3/16”, 1/4” and 3/8”, and has a smooth texture cleft. This slate is produced in Canada.
North Country Semi-Weathering Vermont Black is predominantly black, containing shades of medium and dark gray in subtle linear markings across the slate. A percentage of these slate will weather to tones of buff and brown over time when exposed to the elements. This slate is moderately more textured than the unfading black and splits best in standard thickness of 1/4”-3/8”.
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What colors are available in roofing slate?
The most common colors are green, gray, purple, and black. As a metamorphic stone you can expect to see a natural range in color from piece to piece. Purple slates can be semi-weathering, and a percentage will weather to tones of brown or buff over time. While the unfading purple slates will have a full range of deep purple tones with the occasional green inclusions. One of the more interesting colors is our unfading mottled purple and green, which varies with an array of light to dark tones.
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My slate roof is old, how can I tell what the original color was?
If you can remove an existing piece of slate, look at the underside as this will help depict the original color. Our technical sales representatives can help provide the closest (new slate) color match by simply looking at a few photographs or sample piece. -
Does the slate color fade?
There are two types of weathering characteristics that are common in natural slate roofing material: semi-weathering and unfading (non-weathering). This is predicated on the slate’s mineral and chemical makeup. When exposed to the atmosphere, a percentage of slates can eventually change to buff and brown hues. A few weeks, months, or years may pass before weathering occurs. It is crucial to remember that the weathering process does not degrade slate in any way, it is just a aesthetic feature. An unfading or non-weathering slate is least likely to change color over time. -
How to select a slate color for your roof?
North American produced roofing slates are available in a wide variety of colors. With several color options in unfading and semi-weathering. When choosing a color it may come down to the architectural style of your home, complimentary exterior brick color, or a single uniform color throughout the roof vs. a unique, custom multi-colored slate roof.