Tip 1: Careful Planning and Preparation

Check the Roof Structure: Make sure the roof can handle the weight of slates.

Slates are a quality roofing product. It is essential to verify that the underlying roof framework can handle this additional weight. Consult a structural engineer if necessary.

Choose the Right Slate: Selecting the appropriate type of slate is vital.

Pick a slate that suits your climate and the style of the project. It is important to ensure the slate can withstand the local weather conditions, including high winds, and heavy rainfall. Find out how our Kytun Performance Plus Aluminium Verge Trim can deliver additional roof verge protection.

Aesthetic Fit: Choose a slate colour and texture that complements the architectural style of the building.

Tip 2: Use Good Materials: The longevity and performance of your slate roof heavily depend on the quality of materials used.

Strong Underlay:

A durable underlay is essential for waterproofing the roof and providing an extra layer of protection against leaks. Opt for a high-quality, water-resistant underlay designed specifically for slate roofs.

A Quality Slate:

Invest in premium-quality slate sourced from reputable suppliers. High-grade slate is more durable, less prone to delamination, and provides a more refined appearance.

A Durable Finish:

Well-chosen materials enhance the overall appearance and durability of the roof. We recommend Kytun Performance Plus, for the ultimate in roofline protection.

To ensure the drainage of the roof and the batten cavity is protected long-term, we recommend the Kytun EP15 Eaves Protector along the length of the eaves. The roof should be correctly ventilated to BS5250 depending on the underlay type, insulation position etc. Contact our technical team for full guidance.

Tip 3: Correct Installation Techniques

  • Think ahead: Natural slates will need grading before installation can begin, with the thinnest slates used at the upper part of the roof.
  • Manage the condensation risk: Ensure the roof has the correct level of ventilation for the underlay type / insulation position, our Technical Team can provide full specification assistance if required.
  • Roof drainage: Ensure the integrity of the roof drainage to the eaves gutter by fitting the Kytun EP15 at the eaves.
  • Let the slating begin: The eaves will consist of a double course of slates – an under eaves course, laid face down and a first full course of slate – the tails or bottom edges of these slates need to be flush and should overhang the eaves gutter by at least 50mm.
  • Be edge-aware: Cut slates at verges can be secured with a single nail as Kytun Performance Plus acts as the outer mechanical fixing in accordance with BS5534.

Tip 4: Attention to Detail

The edges of a slate roof can be a source of water ingress or damage by wind load forces if not correctly detailed.

  • Eaves – Where modern roof underlays are left exposed below the bottom line of the slates, they are directly exposed to daylight and the harmful effects of UV light. To ensure the long-term integrity of your roof drainage we would recommend our EP15 fitted over the fascia with the lower section drip directly into the gutter.
  • Verges – Roof verges are regularly attacked by wind and driving rain, our Performance Plus Aluminium Continuous Dry Verge not only secures verge slates against wind uplift, it effectively stops water penetration along the verge, protecting the batten ends, and as it is aluminium, will never rust or corrode giving the occupier complete peace of mind.
  • Valleys – Pitched roof valleys are an area of risk with regard to water penetration as they drain the rainwater from two roof slopes. The liner for the valley should offer a corrosion and maintenance free long-life solution and should be quick and easy to install, all of which is offered by our Kytun Aluminium Valley Trough.

To complement the valley slates, we also offer valley trims, these trims cover the leading cut edge of slates which helps to secure the smaller cut pieces of slate along the valley whilst presenting a sharp finished edge to the valley slates.

  • Abutments – Side edge and top edge abutments are another area where incorrect detailing can lead to expensive remediation. Any roof abutment, where the wall above the roof line becomes an internal wall below the roofline should incorporate a cavity tray with an appropriate cover flashing.

At Kytun we offer a comprehensive range of cavity trays with integral lead flashings and a full selection of either powder coated or mill finished aluminium soakers.

  • Ridge / Hip – All roof ridge / hip tiles must now be mechanically fixed, even where sand & cement mortar is being used for aesthetic purposes. Mechanical fixing offers the most secure protection against wind uplift damage. Kytun Dry Fix Ridge Systems utilise 100mm long stainless steel screws and glass fibre-reinforced 3mm thick nylon fixing plates for a corrosion-free long life solution.

Tip 5: Safety First

Working on a slate roof involves significant safety risks, so it’s essential to prioritize safety at all times.

  • Work Safely: Slate roofing can be labour-intensive, involving working at heights. Use proper safety gear, including harnesses, and ensure scaffolding or ladders are secure.
  • Save time on installation: Get expert advise on how to reduce installation time.
  • Handle with Care: Slate tiles can be fragile and heavy, requiring careful handling to avoid injury and breakage. Kytun now have a solution to the traditional requirement for extra wide (and heavy) slate and a half stock, for faster installation and a safer working environment.

Check out our Kytun Performance Plus range, or speak to a Kytun expert for more information.