Slate roofs are generally couverture toiture older and fragile, so it is important to use a soft wash method. This will ensure the cleaning process doesn't damage the surface and underlying structures.
It is also important to never walk on a slate roof. This can cause cracks and break the roof tiles.
Removing Debris
Slate is the most durable, maintenance-free roof material available, able to withstand a century or more of exposure to sunlight and rain. However, if a slate roof becomes damaged it can be expensive to repair or replace. Regular roof cleaning can extend a slate roofing system and keep it looking its best.
As with all roof surfaces, the first step in extending the life of a slate roof is to remove any debris that has collected. Debris can come from a variety of sources. A build-up of organic debris can hold moisture in the slate, causing it to split during winter freezes. In addition, broken slates may clog gutters and downspouts, as well as damage the eaves and valleys.
If the roof is accessible, it can be manually removed with a scraper taking care not to damage the fragile slates. For a roof that can not be safely accessed, the slates should be professionally cleaned by a specialist. The process involves spraying the roof with a non-aggressive chemical to kill the moss and algae, allowing it to work over a few weeks. After the spores have been killed, the roof can be lightly rinsed with clean water.
While this type of roof cleaning will significantly prolong the life of a slate roof, it will not be as effective as a full-scale replacement. In many cases, replacing a slate roof with new, man-made materials is necessary. If this is the case, it is important to select a substitute material that closely matches the historic materials in texture, surface reflectivity and finish.
Whenever possible, a slate replacement should be of the same size and color as the original. It is also important to maintain the proper pitch, drainage and ventilation of the roof.
In general, a slate roof should be resealed every three years to maintain its integrity. A good quality breathable roof sealer will provide the protection needed without altering the appearance of the original slate tiles. This is particularly important if the roof has been replaced with slates of a different color or if the slates have been repaired or re-pointed.
Preventing Damage
The slate that covers your roof is among the most durable roofing materials on the market. However, weather conditions can impact its lifespan. This is especially true if you live in an area with extreme weather. For example, hail and high winds can damage a slate roof. If your home has a slate roof, it is important to have regular cleanings done. This will help to remove debris and extend the life of your roof.
Slate is easy to cleave and is water absorbent, so regular roof cleanings are crucial. Moss and debris buildup on a slate roof can hold moisture in the slates, which can split them during winter freezes. This can cause serious damage, resulting in water leaks and damage to interior walls and ceilings.
A professional slate roof cleaner should use a chemical treatment that is gentle on the slates and tiles. It is also important to avoid pressure washing, as this can damage the slates and sheathing. A slate roof cleaner should be applied using a low-pressure spray from the bottom upwards.
It is also a good idea to limit the amount of organic debris that is collected during a cleaning. This can be accomplished by keeping tree limbs trimmed away from the roof, or by removing any trees that drop large amounts of debris on the slate roof. Alternatively, a vinyl leaf rake can be used to scoop up organic debris.
During a roof cleaning, it is important to scrape the worst of the moss and lichen off the slates and tiles. This can be done manually, taking care not to damage the relatively fragile surface. It is a good idea to then thoroughly spray the roof with Bio Cleanze, diluted 25:1. This ensures that the chemicals flow under the lap joints where spores hide, killing them and preventing rapid re-colonisation.
Another important part of a roof cleaning is to look for damage, such as broken and missing slates. Broken or slipped slates should be repaired promptly by a qualified slater. This will prevent water leaks, accelerated deterioration of the slates and sheathing and structural degradation to the framing members.
Extending Roof Life
Slate is a very durable material that can last for centuries. However, like any roof it will need regular inspection and maintenance. By having a professional examine your slate roof, you can catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Regular cleaning and maintenance can add up to 20 years to your slate roof’s lifespan.
Extending your roof’s life span helps you save money on expensive repair costs, increases the overall value of your home and protects you and your family from the elements. Taking care of your roof’s health can also improve the energy efficiency of your house.
The moss and algae that grow on a slate roof not only spoil the appearance of your property but they can damage the materials, too. This can result in a leaky roof and damage to the surrounding guttering, flashings and chimney stacks. Regular moss and algae removal can extend your roof’s lifespan and keep it looking good.
A mossy roof is not only unsightly but it can actually put off potential buyers of your property. This can lead to a lower price when you come to sell it. Regular moss removal, along with a coat of resin impregnating the slates can help to preserve your roof for longer and make it easier to clean in the future.
When hiring a soft washing company, be sure they use gentle cleaners to prevent any unnecessary damage to your roof. Harsh chemicals can break apart slates that are nearing the end of their usefulness, or drive water up and under them causing leaks. Professional soft washing companies understand the best way to gently clean a slate roof.
It is essential that the eaves of your roof are free from debris to ensure that the waterproofing works properly. This can be difficult, especially if there are branches hanging over the edge of your roof.
The first step is to inspect your slate roof, paying particular attention to the slating, dormer back gutter and valleys. Generally speaking, the slating on the eave of your roof will be thicker than the slating further up toward the ridge.
Keeping Your Roof Clean
A dirty roof isn’t just unsightly, it can lead to serious damage that will shorten the lifespan of your slates and the structural integrity of your home. A damaged roof can result in leaks, moisture buildup that encourages the growth of mildew and mold, and chipped or broken slates that may need to be replaced. A regular cleaning of your roof can prevent many of these issues and extend the life of your slates.
Slate roofs require frequent cleaning to remove moss, mildew, and algae growth and to keep the surface of the roof free of debris. The frequency of cleaning depends on a variety of factors, including the climate in your area and the type of roof you have.
For instance, natural slate roofs are very porous and therefore can be affected by rain more easily than other types of roofing. Additionally, they are often steeper, requiring special safety precautions to ensure the protection of the roofer and the homeowner. This means that it is particularly important to perform a roof cleaning during daylight hours on a day that is not windy, in order to ensure that the work is performed safely.
In addition to cleaning your slate roof, there are a few things you can do to help prevent regrowth of moss and other plant life. For example, you should trim the limbs of any trees that hang over the roof and frequently drop debris on the roof. In addition, you should use a non-aggressive treatment to kill the moss and other plant life on your roof. This will reduce the amount of spores on your roof and can help prevent regrowth for years to come.
In some cases, you may need to treat your slate roof with a transparent coating after the roof has been cleaned. This can restore the appearance of your roof and make it look brand new again. In addition, it can protect your slates from regrowth of moss and other plants for fifteen to twenty years. This is a very cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your slate roof and to improve the appearance of your home.