Slate Roof History

For layout reasons these patterns are most frequently incorporated into standard slate roofs.

Slate roof history. Vermont and new york slates. Reprint of 1926 edition now available from the vermont structural slate co inc fairhaven vt 05743. Slate roofs are a critical design feature of many historic buildings that cannot be duplicated using substitute materials. An excellent reference for the many designs and details of slate roofs peterson charles e.

Slate is a fine grain homogeneous rock that derives from shale sediment composing of clay or volcanic ash. Slate roofs of quality j. 125 to 175 years. Slate roofs can and should be maintained and repaired to effectively extend their serviceable lives.

To find the roots of slate roofing you have to go way back in the history books. Before the mid 19th century the terms slate shale and schist were not sharply distinguished. Our founder kinsley dennings has been working with slate since he was a teenager. For example roof slate referred to shale above a coal seam and draw slate referred to shale that fell from the mine roof as.

And nearby parts of canada because of the abundance of slate quarries in the area slate also became popular in the rest of the u s. It s malleable breakability yet tough qualities allow it to be broken into thin but durable sheets. Williams slate co c. Nsw slate roofing has been in the business of installing beautiful durable slate roofs for decades.

More than 700 years in fact as there is evidence that slate was used as a roofing material in north wales england during the early 14th century. The history of slate roofing. Iron in early american roofs the smithsonian journal of history 3 no. 175 years or more.

The first recorded slate roof of a private home is reported to be in north wales england around 1300a d. Edited by peter c. In period styles of residential and commercial architecture. 100 to 200 years.

Slate roofs have a unique rich history and are used all over the world. Slate from different mines has different average slate roof life expectancies with proper installation and regular maintenance. In the context of underground coal mining in the united states the term slate was commonly used to refer to shale well into the 20th century. When replacement is necessary details contributing to the appearance of the roof should be retained.