Frequently Asked Questions
We tried to answer some of the more common roofing questions in this section. If there is a roofing term you are not sure of, check out our glossary of terms.
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Do I need to have my roof inspected even if I don't notice any leaks?
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The snow keeps sliding off of my slate roof and onto my walkway. How can I stop this?
Q: How long does a slate roof normally
last?
A: There are different kinds of slates that
have varying life spans. Depending on the type, slate can last from
50 years to over 200 years. Of course, the slate must be maintained
and the flashings will have to be replaced periodically.
Q: Do I need to have my roof inspected
even if I don't notice any leaks?
A: If your slate roof hasn't been inspected
recently it is a good idea to have it checked. Often, by the time a
customer notices a leak, it has already caused major damage. With a
small leak, the water may get absorbed by the insulation and
interior framing. This can cause rot and mold inside the attic space
or walls. The only time some leaks are noticeable are during heavy
rain or extended periods of rain. A proper roof inspection can help
to eliminate this problem.
Q: What is the best time of year for an
inspection?
A: An inspection can be performed anytime of the year. If you have not had a recent inspection, the sooner the better. If your roof has been maintained properly it is advisable to have your annual inspection in the spring. At this time we can determine if there was any damage from snow and ice loads on the slate.
Q: Can any roofing company inspect or
work on my slate roof?
A: Generally the answer to this is no. Roofing companies that do not specialize in slate roofing do not possess the knowledge, or the tools, to properly inspect or work on a slate roof. Someone who is not trained on how to maneuver on slate roofs could cause serious damage to the slates. You should always have a company that is experienced in dealing with all the different aspects of slate perform your inspection or work.
Q: The snow keeps sliding off of my
slate roof and on to my walk way. How can I stop this?
A: .One of the differences between slate and shingle roofs is that the snow does not stick to as well to the slate. It can slide off in large sheets as the roof underneath heats up and causes a small layer of water between the slate and the snow. The effects of sliding snow can range from a minor nuisance to a major liability. If the snow is falling onto areas where people could be located it is very dangerous. To fix this problem,
snowguards can be installed. There are different types for different applications. These products will hold the snow on the roof where it can slowly melt and drip harmlessly into the gutters.
Q: How long will new copper keep it's
original shine?
A: Almost every customer wants to know how long the copper will look
original. The copper will start to slowly turn brown as early as the first
rainfall. The copper then will continue to turn until it reaches a light
blue-green color. This patina coating on the copper is actually what
protects the copper from atmospheric corrosion. This significantly increases
the lifespan of copper roofing and flashing.
Weathering Chart
Unexposed
4
Months
8
Months
1 Year
2 Years
3 Years
4 Years
5 Years
7 Years
10 Years
15 Years
25-30 Years
Q: How long can I expect my copper to
last?
A: The thickness of the copper and how it is used on the
roof will determine how long it will last. Generally, the copper that does not
have a lot of water runoff, like hip and ridge caps, will last longer, about 100
years. The copper that has a lot of water run-off, such as a valley, will more
likely last around 50 years.
Q: I need one collector box replaced but
the new one needs to match the rest. Can I get one that will match?
A: Mahan Slate Roofing Co. can custom fabricate all types of collector
boxes. Because we have our own full service sheet metal shop we are able to
provide more options to our customers when it comes to copper products and roofing.