Slate is beyond competition: it is safe, resistant to aggressive environments and temperature extremes, has low thermal conductivity, good noise insulation. Most importantly, it remains the most affordable roofing material, and its service life is almost unlimited. Usually, manufacturers are reinsured and indicate a service life of 25 years. But this is more than any analogues! In fact, we see houses where the slate roof was built more than half a century ago, but does not leak, does not collapse and looks great.
Does it make sense to change such a roof for another? Obviously not. Slate helps to save twice – during installation and during operation.
To keep the slate roofing as good as new for many years, it is worth spending a few days and a couple of thousand rubles to buy an impregnation primer and paint. Better to spend two thousand now than twenty later.
“Before” and “after” cleaning
Modern factories produce updated slate, painted in the most popular colors. It is compact and convenient even for single mounting. But it is so in demand that it is literally swept away from warehouses. But ordinary gray slate in large sheets is always on sale. They should be dealt with before installation – primed with a product for concrete surfaces, and after drying, paint.
The algorithm is complemented by a preliminary stage – cleaning the slate surface from debris, moss, and mold. Chrysotile cement has a porous structure, in which different organisms like to settle. They grow and gradually destroy the leaf. The process will take decades, but in the end it will have a detrimental effect on the characteristics of the slate..
Craftsmen clean corrugated sheets with scrapers, grinders, metal brushes. But the fastest and most convenient way is a home car wash, turned on at medium power. A few hours of work and the roof is absolutely clean. After that, the slate is allowed to dry and the preparatory treatment with a primer is started. It is advisable to engage in roofing in the range from +5 to +20 degrees.
The easiest way to cover the sheet with primer and paint is with a spray gun, and you must definitely use a respirator
Primer and paint tightly close the pores – now the slate becomes waterproof. He is no longer so defenseless against the fungus, and can serve forever. Acrylic paint is most often used as an affordable and quick-drying option. A more expensive alternative could be rubber and polymer paints..
This method of care is suitable for damp areas, for roofs over which tree crowns hang, or something interferes with the free circulation of air. If the roof is well blown by the wind and warmed up by the sun, the fungus is not terrible for it. Those who like to play it safe can cover the slate with a silicone water-repellent primer every few years..
Remember to check the slate annually for chips and cracks. A simple visual inspection and replacement of damaged sheets as needed is a minimum program that ensures that the next rain does not fall in your house, and the roof will serve not only you, but also your grandchildren.
Slate.rf
Oh no, that must have been quite a shock for him! I’m sorry to hear about his roof. Do you have any suggestions or tips to ensure the longest possible lifespan for slate roofs? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
To ensure the longevity of a slate roof, regular maintenance is key. Inspect the roof for any loose or damaged slates and replace them promptly. Keep the gutters clean to prevent water buildup, and clear away any debris that may accumulate. Trim trees or nearby vegetation to avoid damage from falling branches or excessive shade. Regularly check for moss or algae growth and treat accordingly to prevent deterioration. Additionally, avoid walking on the roof as much as possible to prevent damaging the slates. Taking these proactive measures can help extend the lifespan of a slate roof.
Oh no! What a predicament! I hope everything is all right with him. I’m quite curious, though – does anyone have any tips or recommendations for ensuring the longest possible lifespan for slate roofs? It might be helpful to learn about proper maintenance, preventative measures, or even alternative materials. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!