🏠 Hidden Secrets of Proper Roof Slating and Tiling
Ever stared at a roof and wondered whether you’re looking at slate or tile? Or why some roofs outlive entire generations? This guide uncovers the real differences between Roof Slating and Tiling, and shows you how to install, maintain, and master both — without falling off the ladder (literally or financially).
🔧 Before You Start: Planning and Preparation
Assess Your Roof Type and Pitch
- Slate requires a minimum 25° pitch, though some sources suggest 20° with proper overlap.
- Clay tiles work well on lower pitches, as low as 15°.
- Use a smartphone pitch app or a digital angle finder on rafters/barge boards.
🆚 Choosing Between Slate and Tile
| Feature | Slate | Clay/Concrete Tile |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Natural stone | Manufactured |
| Cost | £160–£275/m² | £120–£230/m² |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter (but still substantial) |
| Longevity | 80–150 years | 40–75 years |
| Appearance | Classic, textured | More variation in style/color |
🛡️ Tools & Safety Gear Checklist
- PPE: Safety harness, helmet, gloves, boots, glasses
- Slate tools: Slate hammer, cutter, ripper, nails/hooks
- Tiling tools: Tile clips, chalk line, batten gauge, cutter
- Measurement: Roofing square, tape, chalk line
🧱 How to Slate a Roof: Step-by-Step
1️⃣ Lay Underlay and Battens
- Start at bottom corner; underlay should overhang 50mm into gutter
- Nail battens spaced according to slate length & lap requirement
2️⃣ Cut & Punch Slate Tiles
- Use guillotine, stake/hammer, or grinder
- Punch 2 holes ~1/3 down each slate (if not pre-holed)
3️⃣ Fix Slates with Nails or Hooks
- Use copper or aluminium nails (10mm head minimum)
- Hooks: stainless steel (316 grade), 5mm longer than lap
4️⃣ Check Alignment & Headlap
- Maintain 5mm side gaps for expansion
- Headlap: 50mm–100mm based on pitch & exposure
5️⃣ Ridge & Verge Finishing
- Ridge tiles: Overlap top slates by 75mm, use mortar or dry fix
- Verges: Use slate-and-a-half to maintain bond
🧱 How to Tile a Roof (Clay or Concrete Tiles)
🔍 Prepare the Surface
- Inspect structure for rot, mould, sagging, cracks
- Lay breathable underlay with 50mm gutter overhang
- Install battens at proper gauge (320–350mm typically)
1️⃣ Lay First Course of Tiles
- Start at eaves, allow 40–50mm verge overhang
- Snap chalk lines vertically for alignment every 3rd tile
2️⃣ Fix Tiles in Place
- Fix every third row and all perimeter tiles
- Use clips, nails, or screws per manufacturer & BS 5534
3️⃣ Deal with Valleys & Hips
- Use arris hip tiles or dry ridge/hip systems
- Ensure ridge tiles overlap top course by 75mm minimum
4️⃣ Work Around Chimneys & Vents
- Cut tiles accurately around features
- Use metal flashing + waterproof caulk for seal
🧽 Aftercare and Maintenance
Inspect for Damage Twice a Year
- Check after storms for:
- Cracked, slipped, or missing tiles
- Damaged flashing
- Moss, algae, blocked gutters
Cleaning and Moss Removal
- Use soft brush and non-acidic cleaners
- Avoid pressure washers on natural slate
- Apply moss inhibitor or tile sealer as needed
When to Call a Pro
- Signs of sagging, leaks, multiple damaged tiles, rising energy bills
- Annual inspections = peace of mind for high-value roofs
🧠 Key Takeaways
- ✅ Slate: min. 25° pitch, Tile: 15° pitch
- ✅ Headlap: 50–100mm depending on exposure
- ✅ All perimeter tiles need 2 mechanical fixings
- ✅ Inspect twice a year, especially after storms
- ✅ Store spare tiles for future repairs
❓ FAQs
Q1. How do I tell the difference between a slate and tile roof?
Slate is flatter, uniform, and natural stone. Tiles have a more varied shape and come in many colours/materials (clay, concrete).
Q2. What’s the first step in slating a roof?
Measure pitch, install underlay and battens, then lay slates from eaves upward.
Q3. Where do I start tiling a roof?
Begin at the bottom right corner, working row by row up. Leave space for flashings and go back to fill in cuts.
Q4. What’s standard batten spacing for slate?
Usually 250–300mm, based on slate size and required overlap.
Q5. How often should I inspect my roof?
Twice a year — ideally spring and autumn — plus after severe weather.
🔗 Useful Links
Internal:
External:
👷♂️ Whether you choose tile or slate, you’re building something to last decades. So slow down, prep properly, and install with precision. Because when it comes to Roof Slating and Tiling, cutting corners is never worth the leak. 💦
