The Solar Slate Plate means you never have to measure or guess when drilling mounting holes. It’s an absolutely fool proof system that quickly and efficiently identifies exactly where holes need to be drilled. The tiles aren’t damaged, and there’s no time consuming measuring or guess work going on. Best of all – no damaged roofing tiles means a happy homeowner.
How to Use the Solar Slate Plate
The Solar Slate Plate is a very affordable tool that opens up tremendous revenue possibilities for any solar installation business. Designed for solar installers by a solar installer, the Solar Slate Plate is easy to use. You can train your entire crew to use the Solar Slate Plate in less than an afternoon. Before you know it, your entire solar installation company will be prepared to offer a relatively rare service to high-end home owners: installing solar on slate roofs.
When you have the ability to install solar on slate roofs, it’s important to let your community know. Include this messaging on your website, social media sites, and any other advertising you may do. If you participate in home fairs or garden shows, make sure you have signage or other marketing materials indicating your ability to install solar on slate. This will encourage interested homeowners to talk to you.
Steps for Maintaining Your Slate Roof in the Spring
Spring is the ideal time to inspect and repair any damage your slate roof may have incurred during the winter months. Here are the recommended steps to ensure your slate roof remains in top condition:
1. Inspect and Repair Broken Slates
Winter snow and ice can crack or break individual slates. If you find more than one broken slate per square, it could indicate a more significant issue, such as the absence of a cant strip along the eave.
2. Fix and Align Hips and Ridges
Snow, ice, and wind can displace hip and ridge slates. It’s important to realign and secure these pieces to prevent further damage.
3. Clear Debris from Valleys and Gutters
Ensure that valleys and gutters are free from leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clogged gutters can lead to leaks and water damage.
4. Straighten and Protect Gutters and Roof Protrusions
Check for any damage to your gutters and protrusions caused by winter weather. Damaged gutters can harm the structure. Consider installing snow guards to protect these areas.
5. Address Ice Damming Issues
Ice dams are a common cause of leaks and should be corrected early in the spring. Repairs might be needed both at the roofline and within the structure itself. Allocate enough time for these repairs during good weather.
6. Maintain a Stock of Repair Slates
It’s advisable to keep around 2% of your roof’s slate on hand for future repairs. If you don’t have any leftover slate from the installation, contact a slate quarry or distributor for replacements. Be prepared to provide detailed information or samples of your current slate.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your slate roof remains durable and efficient, ready to face the year ahead.
Traditionally, solar installation companies have avoided working on slate roofs. This is because slate roofing tiles are very easily damaged. If you drill a hole in the wrong place, the roofing tile can be split, chipped, or damaged – and that means you’ve got an angry home owner and a need for roof repairs.
How to Identify and Repair Broken Field Slates
Maintaining your roof’s integrity requires regular inspections to identify and repair any damaged field slates. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to spot and fix these issues:
Identifying Broken Field Slates
- Visual Inspection: Begin with a thorough visual inspection from the ground using binoculars. Look for any irregularities or missing slates.
- Close-Up Check: If possible, safely access the roof to perform a closer inspection. Pay attention to slates that appear cracked, chipped, or displaced.
- Specific Signs: Be alert for slates broken along the eaves, which can indicate deeper issues like the absence of a cant strip. This strip helps to support lower edges and prevent breakage from sliding snow and ice.
Repairing Broken Field Slates
- Equipment and Safety: Gather necessary tools like a slate cutter and slate ripper. Ensure personal safety with roofing harnesses and non-slip footwear.
- Remove the Broken Slate:
- Locate the Damaged Slate: Identify the damaged piece and gently lift adjoining slates.
- Slate Ripper: Slide the slate ripper under the broken slate to cut the nail holding it in place. Carefully slide the damaged slate out.
- Installing New Slate:
- Cut the New Slate: Measure and cut a replacement slate to fit the removed piece perfectly.
- Nail the Slate: Slide the new slate into place and secure it with copper or stainless steel nails. Ensure that nails are covered by overlapping slates to prevent water ingress.
- Check Alignment and Sealing: Make sure the new slate aligns with the surrounding slates and the edges are sealed to prevent future damage.
Regular Maintenance
- Annual Checks: Conduct annual inspections, especially after winter, to catch and repair any new damage promptly.
- Professional Help: For extensive damage or recurring issues, consider hiring a professional roofer to address potential underlying problems.
By following these steps, you can effectively identify and repair broken field slates, ensuring the durability and longevity of your roof.