A slate roof should be evaluated as a system. Broken slates may be visible, but leaks often begin at flashings, valleys, penetrations, fasteners, gutters, transitions, or earlier repairs.

REPAIR MAY BE APPROPRIATE WHEN

• Most field slate remains sound

• Damage is isolated or storm-related

• Flashing or penetrations are the primary source of leakage

• Replacement slate can be matched in size, thickness, and appearance

• The deck and structure remain serviceable

RESTORATION MAY INCLUDE

Individual slate replacement, hook or bib repairs where appropriate, selective relaying, valley or flashing renewal, chimney and wall-flashing work, ridge or hip repairs, gutter and drainage corrections, snow-retention coordination, and removal of incompatible patch materials.

WHEN REPLACEMENT MAY BE NECESSARY

Widespread slate deterioration, severe fastener failure, major deck or structural problems, repeated system-wide leakage, incompatible previous work, or a roof near the end of its practical serviceability can change the recommendation. The decision should be based on documented conditions—not age alone.

MATCHING REPAIR SLATE

Match color, weathering, size, thickness, texture, edge, hole location, exposure, and pattern. A loose sample is often more useful than photos alone. Repairs should blend into the roof while remaining technically compatible.

DO NOT

Coat the roof, pressure wash it, walk on slate unnecessarily, face-nail exposed repairs without a proven detail, or assume every leak requires full replacement. Start with photographs and an assessment from a slate-experienced professional.