Slate Roof History

Slate was a common roof covering in europe centuries before it ever appeared on buildings in american in the 1800s.

Slate roof history.

More than 700 years in fact as there is evidence that slate was used as a roofing material in north wales england during the early 14th century. Tar or roofing cement should not be found at chimneys sidewall flashings plumbing vents or elsewhere. It s malleable breakability yet tough qualities allow it to be broken into thin but durable sheets. Cutting sculpting splitting trimming and hole punching 1.

Slate roof repair history helps diagnose the condition of a slate roof tar or roofing mastic is normally an indication of improper maintenance. Some of the earliest known slate roofing can be found on roman forts in wales and on welsh castles from the 14th century. The history of slate roofing slate is a fine grain homogeneous rock that derives from shale sediment composing of clay or volcanic ash. It should be considered a temporary unreliable repair.

The first recorded slate roof of a private home is reported to be in north wales england around 1300a d. Slate roofing is mainly sourced from the state of vermont. To find the roots of slate roofing you have to go way back in the history books.