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Natural Slate Roofing
Natural slate outlasts almost every other roof covering — a properly laid slate roof can run 100+ years. We work with Welsh, Spanish and reclaimed slates.

- Welsh, Spanish & reclaimed slate
- Copper or stainless nailing
- Mitred hips & valleys
- Code 4/5 lead flashings
- Period property specialism
- 100-year material life
Why natural slate (not concrete imitation)
Concrete 'slate' tiles look ok for 15 years then weather to a dull grey. Real slate is colour-stable for life, lighter on the roof structure, and worth significantly more on resale. For a period property in Buckinghamshire, it's usually the right call.
How a slate roof should be laid
Every slate twice-nailed in copper or stainless (never galvanised), with proper underlay, counter-battens for ventilation where needed, and lead — not mortar fillets — at every abutment, valley and chimney. Anything less is built to fail.
FAQs
How long does natural slate last?+
Welsh slate: 100+ years routinely. Spanish: 75–100. The nails and battens usually fail before the slate does, which is why a 'reroof' on an old slate house often means stripping, sorting and relaying the original slates with new nails and battens.
Can you match existing slates on a partial repair?+
Yes — we keep stock of common sizes and source reclaimed Welsh slate for older properties.
Related reading
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