Roof material (pitched roofs)
Slates or tiles are the common options but there are other options such as thatch, wooden/plastic shingles (see Alternate Materials). Again some local authorities will state their requirement in their design brief. Below are some notes on the different types of slate/tiles and suppliers of the different types can be found from the National Federation of Roofing Contractors site , although you will find other local suppliers in addition to the list they provide. The most common options for pitched roofing material:- natural slate
- synthetic slate
- fibre cement
- plastic/vinyl
- clay tiles
- concrete tiles
Natural Slate
A real slate roof does look good - especially in comparison with the common option of smooth fibre cement slates. The commonly available real slates in the UK are, in order of cost (but the costs tend to change) :-- Welsh
- Canadian
- Chinese
- Brazilian
- French
- Spanish
When ordering any of these, you may be asked if you want grade A or B. The difference is usually in the uniformity of thickness. For example grade A may have a variance of 4-5mm and grade B a variance of 4-6mm. A variance of 4 to 6mm will make it much harder to present a "clean" looking roof and you/the roofer may well have to grade (separate into similar thicknesses) the slates yourself before laying (and if you do this, put the thicker to the eaves, the thinner to the ridge).
As grade B are usually substantially cheaper it is well worth visiting the stockist to have a
look. (Click on photos for a larger view) |
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And these may come in different colour, e.g. grey or purple, so be prepared as to what you want.
When calculating the number of real slates, take into account their size (smaller than synthetic) - usually 20" * 10" with, approximately, a 210mm batten gauge.
You can also get reclaimed slates - you will need to find a supplier who will ensure you get quality slates that can all be re-used.
