Good quality roof slates should last for an extended period. Generally, roof slates should last for at least 100 years. During that period, the roof slates are mainly susceptible to physical damage that may be brought about by hailstorms, among other factors. Depending on the weather conditions, the roof slates may end up being loose.
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Strong winds may damage the roof slates. In most cases, isolated slates are more susceptible to physical damage. When the fixing nails fail, the roof slates may end up being loose. When the roof slates begin to break down, it is an indicator that they need to be repaired. There is the option of fixing the nails in case the roof slates are loose. In an instance whereby only one roof slate has been physically damaged, repairing the slate is only a temporary solution since all the other slates will also have to be replaced at some point.
Read more for Repairing Roof Slates tips after the jump
Repairing the Damaged Roof Slates
Removing the roof slates:
To avoid interfering with the surrounding roof slates, you should use a ‘slate ripper.’ It can be pushed in between the slates, and it can also be used to pull out some of the fixing nails. How to use the ‘slate ripper:’
• Insert the slate ripper under the roof slates that have been damaged. Push up the slate and also ensure that it has hooked one of the cutting edges that are situated behind the fixing nails.
• Use the slate ripper to break the nail.
• Repeat the same steps until you ensure that the affected roof slates are free.
• The damaged slates should then be pulled out of the roof.
Many companies offer roof slate repairing services. The firm provides quality services. The most suitable procedure to use when replacing the roof slates is:
• Use a strip of copper that is 25mm wide. It should be used to hold the roof slate in place.
• Make a hole at the end of the tingle and insert a fixing nail. The tingle should then be secured using the gap that is present between the two slates that are located beneath the batten. The fixing nail must be non-corrosive and short so that it may not cause any further damage to the roof.
• The roof slates should be raised carefully in the row that is located above the tingle, and the new slate should be pulled up. The slates should also be aligned from one end to the other. When replacing the roof slates, the slope of the roof should also be considered.
• After ensuring that the roof slates are in position, the tingle will ensure that the replaced slates cannot slip from their current position.
There are some instances whereby the roof slates may appear twisted; that is an indicator that they were not fixed properly. In this case, a slate ripper should be used to pull out the nails. The fixing holes should be examined accordingly so that you may achieve the desired results. During the repair process, the quality of the roof slates should also be considered. The low-quality roof slates will have low durability as compared to the high-quality roof slates.
