Installing A Traditional Slate Roof
We always recommend that a professional slate roofing contractor install a slate roof. We have worked with many professional contractors over the years and we are glad to assist homeowners, architects and project managers find a contractor. Click here to inquire. It is also important to remember that slate will always outlast the materials and accessories used during installation. Therefore, Greenstone recommends using only the highest quality products to enhance the strength and durability of your structure. Regardless of the application, following this simple rule along with a professional installation will assure a long life for the roof. Our primary publication for installing slate roofs is available for download below. The techniques for slate installation are outlined in our publications "Slate Roofs" and "The Greenstone Slate Installation Guide Book." Contractors will find these an invaluable resource for finding answers to common questions such as the proper method of stacking slate as well as expert techniques about uncommon installations. Our book "Slate Roofs" contains the history of slate and the evolution of the manufacturing process.
The Greenstone Slate Installation Guide Book A comprehensive guide to installing a slate roof.
View guidebook, online reference here
Download as a PDF 1.33 mb
Request an install guide in a Greenstone Slate binder here
Slate Roofs
Download as a PDF 8.59 mb
An 83 page book on the installation of slate. It is an invaluable resource for finding answers to common questions such as the proper method of stacking slate. It also contains many techniques used in uncommon installations.
Estimating The Slate Needed For A Roof
Follow these steps to determine how much slate you will need for your project. We are always glad to help so call us at 800.619.4333 with any questions. You can also use our "Quick Bid" form to assist with getting a quote.
1. Obtain the net area of the roof in square feet, adding 6"
to rafter length to allow for waste of normal roof.
2. Deduct one-half of the area of chimneys and dormers if over
20 sq. ft., and deduct 20 sq. ft. less than actual area if more
than 80 sq. ft.
3. Include areas of dormer roofs, sides of dormers if slated,
slate saddles, or any other places where slate is used in addition
to the main roof area. Included overhanging parts of dormers,
etc.
4. Add 1 sq. ft. for
each linear foot of hips and valleys, for loss in cutting and
fitting.
5. Allow from 2% to 15% additional slate, depending upon the
extent to which the roof is intersected by other roofs, dormers,
walls, other contingencies, etc.
6. Divide the above total by 100, which will give the number
of "squares" of roofing required. It should be noted
that slate is always sold at the quarry on the basis of the
quantity required to cover "100 sq. ft." or a "square"
of roof when slate is laid with a 3" head lap. If the roof
is flat or other than 3" lap is used, the quantity must
be corrected to the equivalent amount required as though the
3" lap was used. If you have any questions about estimating,
please contact Greenstone Slate® and a sales representative
will be happy to assist you.
