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Re-using roof slates qualified opinions please?


BIG MAC

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I am terrified of heights but financial circumstances dictate that I will attempt to re roof my hangar this summer. The roof is slate affixed to battens via mild steel crochets which have failed in many places.

 I suspect this is a very specialised field however I will need to do something as last time I was over a slate fell and I realised this could hurt one of my family left unchecked.

The timberwork and battens seem to be in good nick should I change the battens as a matter of course or just treat them? I was intending to re-nail them as necessary in case these nails are also 'iffy'

The slates coming off the roof appear to be quite thin but I suspect 80% may be serviceable. Can anyone advise whether the slates are going to be worth saving and refixing with stainless crochets or is new slate needed? Any tips on the things I will inevitably get wrong as I have never 'roofed' before?

 

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If the slates are easy to break with your hands or very dusty then renew them. Battens are so cheap it would be unwise not to renew them rather then de-nail and re use. Good luck overcoming your vertigo [:)]

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Personally I would source from Quebec.[:P]

But then again opinions differ!

01/06/2009, 12:00

BIG MAC




Joined on 25/02/2006
53 Mayenne / Hants
Posts 1,351

Re: Types of roofing slate

In order

1) Welsh - consistent quality and sizing allows good workability but costly (We repoened a quarry to put a roof onto the Penisula Barracks gatehouse in Winchester a few years ago! Heritage work....costs fierce but the roof is counter battened vented and insulated but looks original)

2) Spanish - There will be some wastage some slates very flaky and inconsistent colour can be an issue, reasonably workable and fairly good value. I remember being told that if you use local materials then things tend to look right....Spain is next door to France s'pose

3) Chinese - You pays your money .....Thickness variations and poor workability in some batches yet others absolutely fine annoying though if you hit a bad batch half way through.

So who'se been slating the Welsh then?

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I note Pachappapa's 'helpful' content however my previous life as a site agent didn't extend to 'doing' the work or the assessment and re-using of materials. It consisted of building to specifications provided by others. I guess what I am looking for here is practical advice and going to Canada for new slates doesn't sound quite right, neither does it address the question.
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