Slate Roof Repair Services
Not every slate roof problem requires complete replacement. In many cases, professional slate roof repair can restore your roof's integrity at a fraction of the cost of full re-roofing. Our slate roof repair specialists assess each situation carefully, providing honest recommendations based on your roof's condition and your long-term needs.
When You Need Slate Roof Repair
Slate roofs can develop issues over time, even with proper maintenance. Common situations where slate roof repair is the right solution include:
Isolated damage affecting less than 30% of the roof - If most of your slates are in good condition, targeted repairs are typically more cost-effective than complete replacement.
Recent storm or impact damage - Falling branches, severe weather, or accidental damage from roof access can crack or dislodge individual slates without affecting the entire roof structure.
Slipped or missing slates - Over time, fixings can corrode or fail, causing slates to slip out of position. This exposes the underlayment to weather and should be addressed promptly.
Ridge and hip tile deterioration - The mortar securing ridge or hip slates often deteriorates faster than the slates themselves. Re-bedding and pointing these junctions prevents water ingress at critical roof intersections.
Localized leaks - If you're experiencing leaks in specific areas but the majority of your slate roof remains sound, targeted slate roof repair is usually the most practical solution.
Common Slate Roof Problems We Fix
Our slate roof repair services address all typical issues affecting London properties:
Cracked Slates - Individual cracked slates can be carefully removed and replaced without disturbing surrounding tiles. We source matching slates to maintain your roof's appearance, whether Welsh slate, Spanish slate, or reclaimed materials.
Slipped Slates - When slates slip out of position due to failed fixings, we re-secure them using copper or stainless steel nails appropriate for your slate type and roof pitch. This prevents progressive failure of surrounding slates.
Valley Repairs - Slate roof valleys experience concentrated water flow and often develop issues before other roof areas. We repair or replace valley linings and re-slate valley junctions to ensure proper drainage.
Flashing Repairs - Where slate roofs meet chimneys, skylights, or walls, properly installed lead flashing is essential. We repair or replace deteriorated flashing to prevent water penetration at these vulnerable junctions.
Ridge and Hip Repairs - We re-bed and point ridge and hip slates using traditional lime mortar or modern breathable alternatives, ensuring secure fixing while allowing the roof structure to breathe naturally.
Delamination Issues - Some slate types, particularly lower-grade imports, can delaminate over time. We identify problematic slates and replace them with more durable alternatives before failure spreads.
Our Slate Roof Repair Process
1. Thorough Inspection - We conduct a comprehensive assessment from ground level and roof access where safe, identifying all issues and photographing problem areas for your records.
2. Detailed Report - You receive a written report outlining all defects found, recommended repairs, and honest advice on whether repair or replacement makes more sense for your situation.
3. Matching Materials - We source slates that match your existing roof as closely as possible in color, texture, and thickness, maintaining visual consistency.
4. Expert Installation - Our slate specialists use traditional techniques and appropriate fixings, ensuring repairs blend seamlessly with your existing roof and will last for decades.
5. Quality Assurance - All slate roof repair work is inspected upon completion and comes with our comprehensive guarantee covering materials and workmanship.
In addition to slate, we're expert tile roofers offering professional tile roof repair for clay, concrete, and terracotta tiles across Southwest London.
Slate Roof Repair Costs in London
Repair costs vary depending on the extent of damage and accessibility:
Individual slate replacement: £25-£45 per slate including materials and labour
5-10 slate replacement: £300-£550
10-20 slate replacement: £500-£900
Ridge slate re-bedding: £50-£80 per linear metre
Valley repairs: £400-£1,200 depending on length and complexity
Flashing repairs: £300-£800 per junction
Emergency callout: £150-£250 (credited against repair cost)
Most slate roof repairs can be completed within 1-3 days, with emergency repairs often possible on the same or next day.
Repair or Replace? Making the Right Decision
Deciding between slate roof repair and replacement depends on several factors:
Repair is usually appropriate when:
• Less than 30% of slates show signs of deterioration
• The roof structure and battens remain sound
• The roof is less than 80 years old (for quality Welsh slate)
• Matching slates are available
• The underlayment is still serviceable
• You plan to remain in the property medium-term
Replacement makes more sense when:
• More than 40% of slates are cracked, delaminating, or failing
• The underlying structure or battens have deteriorated
• The original underlayment has failed completely
• You're undertaking major property renovations
• Matching slates are unavailable or prohibitively expensive
We never recommend replacement when targeted repairs will effectively solve your problems. Our reputation is built on honest assessments and quality workmanship, not unnecessary upselling.
Emergency Slate Roof Repairs
Discovered a leak during heavy rain? Lost slates in a storm? We offer rapid-response emergency slate roof repair services across London.
• Same-day or next-day attendance where possible
• Temporary weatherproofing to prevent further damage
• Permanent repairs scheduled at your convenience
• Emergency callout available 7 days a week
Don't let a small slate roof problem become major internal damage. Contact us immediately for emergency assistance.