The Process:

Slate is a natural rock which has been formed by the action of massive heat and earth pressure on buried mud over a period of about 500 million years. It is an immensely strong and durable product. The formation of slate allows it to be split easily into thin slabs,making it a perfect natural material to be used for roofing. They have an almost identical texture and chemical constitution, and display the same performance characteristics.

Benefits of natural slate       

Cost: The enormous investment in plant and machinery means that our slate is verycompetitively priced; in fact it is less expensive than many man-made alternatives.

Lifespan: Stone leaf roofing slates are expected to last the lifetime of the building.

Weight: Natural slate tiles can weigh as little as 25 kg/m2 when laid, compared with around 45kg/m2 for a typical interlocking concrete tile, or a clay plain tile which can weigh up to about 70kg/m2. This weight reduction can effect a considerable reduction in the cost of the roof structure.

Size: Stone leaf slates are available in a range of sizes, from 300x200mm, up to 600x300mm.They are available in thickness from 3mm to 12mm.

Grade: Stone leaf slates are produced and graded by hand. There are two grades available -Best and Standard. Standard grade are characterized by a less even surface and less consistency in thickness. There may also be a slight twist from top to bottom within the individual standard slate which may result in a longer fixing time. However there is no difference in the fundamental characteristics of the material itself, and of course, the standard product is less expensive.

Design: Tile size and weight should be selected taking into consideration roof pitch, location of building and desired finish. Depending upon exposure conditions, tiles can be laid on roof pitches over 15°. The visual effect achieved by using smaller slates is very different to that using larger tiles. Using smaller slates can cut costs as these are easier to produce and create less wastage than the larger units.

Any other questions, contact us freely: beyardslate@gmail.com