Q) How do I care for my slate or tile roof?
A) An annual inspection is recommended to repair any broken or missing slate or tile. The roof should also be kept clear of all leaves and debris, and gutters and downspouts should be cleaned regularly.

Q) Are most slate and tile roofs walkable?
A) Although not recommended, most slate and tile roofs are walkable when proper precautions and care are taken; however, many slate and tile roofs are steep, and all are slick when wet. Breaks in the slate or tile can occur when walked upon incorrectly; Should this occur, the broken slate or tile should be replaced in a timely manner. The best policy is to not allow anyone other than a qualified roofer on the roof.

Q) How long do slate and tile roofs last?
A) Typically, slate and tile roofs last from 60 to 300 years, depending on the materials used. Check out our Material section for information on a specific slate or tile.

Q) Does hail damage slate or tile?
A) Most slate and tile roofs can withstand hail up to 1” –1 ½” diameter. Should a slate or tile be broken by hail, usually only the broken shingle needs to be replaced, not the entire roof.