Not All Shingles: The Critical Breakdown Point of Slate Roofs
- Karla Alarcon
- Jan 26
- 2 min read
Slate is often called the "forever roof," known for its natural beauty and legendary 100-year lifespan. However, that longevity comes with a catch: Slate is a specialty system, not a standard shingle. When homeowners treat slate like a common asphalt roof, they miss the critical breakdown points that lead to catastrophic failures. At CMAC, we know that preserving a slate roof requires a level of expertise most general contractors simply don't possess.
The "Hidden" Breakdown: It’s Rarely the Stone
The irony of a slate roof is that the stone itself is rarely the first thing to fail. The breakdown usually happens in the components you can’t see from the curb.
Fastener Failure ("Nail Sickness"): While the slate may be fine, the nails holding them (often copper or stainless steel) can corrode or "back out" over decades. Once the fasteners fail, the slate slides, leaving your home exposed.
The Flashing Weak Link: Slate outlasts metal. Valleys, chimneys, and drip edges made of inferior materials will rust out long before the slate does. A "slate roof leak" is almost always a "flashing failure."
Improper Foot Traffic: This is the most common cause of man-made damage. Walking on slate requires specific weight-distribution tools. A general roofer stepping on your slate like it's asphalt will cause hairline fractures that lead to leaks years later.
The CMAC Difference: Precision Preservation
A slate roof is an investment in history and home value. It requires a technician who understands the specific geology of the stone and the physics of the installation.
At CMAC, we don't just "fix" roofs; we provide specialty restoration. We identify the exact breakdown point—whether it's a compromised valley or a single slipped tile—and restore the system's integrity without compromising its 100-year potential.
Don't let a generalist turn a minor repair into a major loss.
