Slate Roof Repairs & Replacement in Bracknell

Slate ridges, hips and valleys

Slate roofs may use clay or slate ridge tiles, bedded or dry-fixed. Valleys are usually lead-lined or formed with cut slates. Lead valleys and soakers are a frequent cause of leaks on older slate roofs, and Scott carries out the associated leadwork himself.

Where slate is found locally

Slate is common on Victorian terraces in Reading and Slough, larger period homes in Windsor, Maidenhead and Ascot, and older cottages throughout Surrey. SLW Roofing covers all of these within 30 miles of Bracknell.

Signs of a failing slate roof

Slates sitting lower than their neighbours, pieces of slate in the gutter or on the ground, slates held on with visible clips in many places, and damp patches in the loft after rain all point to failing fixings or battens. Gaps along the ridge or crumbling mortar at the verges are also common on older slate roofs.

A free survey shows how widespread the problem is, so you can decide between targeted repairs and a re-slate with the facts in front of you.

Choosing replacement slate

Slates vary in size, thickness, colour and texture depending on where they were quarried. A good match depends on all four. For small repairs, reclaimed slate often blends in best because it has already weathered. For larger areas, new natural slate of a similar colour can be used on a less visible slope with salvaged slates moved to the front.

Scott will show you the options before work starts, so there are no surprises in how the finished roof looks.

Underlay and battens on slate roofs

Many older slate roofs were laid without any underlay at all, relying on the slates alone and torching (mortar) on the underside. When re-slating, a modern breathable membrane and new treated battens are fitted, giving a second line of defence against wind-driven rain and allowing the roof space to breathe.

Choosing a Roofer for Slate Roofs in Bracknell

Whoever you choose for slate roofs, ask four questions before you agree to anything: who will actually do the work, is the price fixed or a day rate, what guarantee is offered, and is the roofer insured. The answers tell you more than any advert.

With SLW Roofing, Scott Workman is on every job himself. He started roofing at 14 and has 25 years' experience on the roofs of Berkshire and Surrey. The person who inspects your roof is the person responsible for fixing it, so nothing is lost between a salesman's promise and the work on your roof.

Every quote is free and every price is fixed. Once you've agreed it, it doesn't change because a job took longer than expected. If something unexpected is found, such as rotten timber hidden under tiles, you'll be shown it and asked before any extra work goes ahead.

All work comes with a 10-year guarantee. SLW Roofing holds £1 million public liability insurance and Scott is CSCS registered, a recognised site safety credential. Emergency repairs are available 7 days a week, and standard hours run Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm.

SLW Roofing is based in Bracknell and covers homes up to 30 miles away, including Wokingham, Ascot, Sandhurst, Crowthorne, Camberley, Reading, Windsor, Maidenhead, Slough, Staines-upon-Thames, Woking, Guildford and Farnham. Wherever you are in that area, you get the same owner-led service, the same fixed pricing and the same guarantee.