You have many options when it comes to roofing materials and oftentimes, you’ll notice that they’re all touted as durable materials. While it is true that most roofing materials are manufactured to withstand damage, slate is considered one of the strongest materials there is. Despite this, however, your slate and metal roof company will tell you that there are still some instances when even slate roofs fail prematurely.

Here’s why:
The Wrong Flashing was Attached
When you install a slate roof in your home, your contractors will have to attach a metal flashing to the roofing system. As the flashing is considered to be the weakest part of a slate roof, it’s vital that only the best kind of metal flashing is installed. This is because if a stainless steel or aluminum flashing is installed, they could erode quickly and cause leaks that can damage your slate roof. With that in mind, it’s highly recommended that you have your contractors install a copper flashing on your slate roof to prevent premature erosion.
Walking Over the Roof Tiles
Slate tiles aren’t usually affected by moisture unless they have cracks and oftentimes, cracks occur when your roofer walked over your slate roof. Fortunately, most professional roofers know that they shouldn’t walk over slate tiles. However, if you make the mistake of hiring an inexperienced roofing contractor, it’s possible that they may not know that they shouldn’t walk over the slate roof. Therefore, if you need to have your slate roof repaired or inspected, make sure that you’re hiring a professional who knows their way around slate tiles to prevent your roof from sustaining damage.
Poor Quality Nails Were Used
To attach slate tiles to your roof deck, nails will have to be used and unfortunately, these nails can also be a reason as to why your slate roof failed prematurely. If the nails are of poor quality, they can deteriorate early and with no nails holding them in place, the slate tile could fall off your roof. When you’re having a slate roof installed in your home, make sure that your contractor is using heavy-gauge galvanized roofing nails to prevent the roof from deteriorating early.
Looking for a professional who offers a reasonable slate or metal roof estimate? Simply turn to Carolina Home Specialists, your leading service provider when it comes to roof replacement and installation projects. Give us a call at (336) 740-9915 or fill out our contact form to get a free quote.