Specific portions of our house will require regular maintenance from time to time. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, this should not be a problem, notably with the abundance of informational guidelines and video content readily available on the internet. Things like substituting fuses, configuring shelves, and mending doors can be done by the ordinary individual with a little tweaking. However, there are certain areas of the house that will necessitate the use of professionals. This is because the work entails knowledge and technical skills, specialised tools and materials, or the nature of the activity is simply too dangerous.
Just Classic
Slate is among the most ancient and effective roofing materials. In regards to architectonic aesthetics, slate roofing gives a home a sophisticated and elegant appearance. Slate is also resistant to fire and ice, and it aids in temperature regulation in the home. It’s no surprise that is such a famous roofing material in Frederick, MD, particularly in 19th-century structures and homes.
Slate is also extremely durable, lasting for decades, if not centuries. Slate roofs are often so durable against the elements that they can outlast the construction itself.
Notwithstanding their many advantages, slate roofs will require a lot of maintenance from time to time. There will be times when a tile or two becomes dislodged or broken, particularly if the roof is close to a tree or the house has been subjected to high winds. In that case, someone needs to climb up there and repair it. By the time you finish reading this, you should have the foresight to hire an expert roofing repair contractor.
Reaching Up There
As a basic guideline, getting up on a slate roof is not a smart option. First and foremost, there is the threat of falling. Even from a private residence, a ten-foot drop is not an obstacle that anyone can simply escape from. Furthermore, slate is a slick surface, especially when wet, which is the reason you ought not to climb the roof when it has rained. Finally, the same property that makes slate a great roofing material is also the reason nobody should walk on it: slate roof tiles sunder easily along their grain with the right force, whether with a well-aimed blow or an awkwardly placed foot.
First and foremost, getting to the roof will necessarily entail more than simply a ladder. Before anyone goes up there, the roof area must be free of any obstructions. Moss is another thing to keep in mind, as slate incentivises moss expansion, creating the surface much more slippery. Because slate is slick when wet, the repair should indeed be done on a dry, sunny day. Electrical hazards will have to be avoided as well. Modern homes will include a lot of circuitry running along the roof, and your professional contractor will need to keep track of where it is to avoid electrocuting their roofers.
Repairing the Slate Roof
Slate is a difficult substance to work with, which is why specialised tools are required for removal and installation. To remove a broken slate, you’ll need a slate ripper, followed by nails to hold it in place. Then, using a slate cutter, cut the suitable alternative tile to size. When you have the appropriate replacement tile, tumble it into place; hammer it down with copper nails, utilising the right amount of torque to nail it securely in place; then insert the copper scooting under it; and finally, ensure everything is water resistant with caulk or asphalt.
Being safe should always be one of your main priorities. If you are not sure about your skills, never hesitate to bring in a professional roofing contractor like The Slate Roofing Company who can deal easily and efficiently with your slate roof maintenance and repairs. The Slate Roofing Company services Sydney, the South Coast of NSW and the Southern Highlands. Contact us today for a no obligation quote.
