Slate Roofs

A Timeless Tradition: The Enduring Legacy of Slate Roofs

Slate roofs boast a rich history, gracing buildings across Europe for centuries. Their journey began in 1287, with the installation of the first documented slate roof in North Wales, England. This early preference for slate stemmed from its exceptional durability against fire and harsh weather, making it a prime choice for castles and churches. However, the laborious quarrying process and high installation costs limited slate roofs to the wealthy.

The 1800s ushered in a turning point. Advancements in quarrying techniques in Wales and Spain made slate more accessible, allowing its use on everyday homes.

Welsh Slate: A Legacy of Strength

Among European roofing slates, Welsh slate reigns supreme. Renowned for its exceptional lifespan – often exceeding 100 years – Welsh slate boasts such remarkable durability that reclamation yards even resell used Welsh slates. However, rising costs have led to a shift in popularity towards slates from Spain and other countries. Interestingly, Spanish slates, despite being younger (dating back to the Ordovician period, roughly 400 million years old), can still last up to 75 years.

A Tale of Two Slates: Age and Properties

The contrasting ages of Welsh and Spanish slates influence their properties. Welsh Penrhyn slate, formed during the older Cambrian era (over 600 million years ago), is denser and more robust. It's also less susceptible to iron sulphide deposits (pyrites) that can cause rust, discoloration, and disintegration in Spanish slates, particularly those of lower quality.

However, high-quality Spanish slates sourced from reputable suppliers can rival Welsh slates in most aspects.