The roofing tools guide: slater’s edition
Installing natural slate is a craft that demands skill, experience, and high-quality materials. It is, however, just as important to have the right set of specialised tools. Slate roofing is an art that takes years to master, but with the proper tools in your kit, the job becomes easier, more efficient, and precise.
Every master will have their own way, but there are some essential tools that no slater can do without. Let’s break them down one by one!
PPE (Personal Protection Equipment: (Safety harness, boots, gloves, helmet and safety glasses…) Safety first, it is important to always prioritise safety by following all recommended guidelines. Getting home safe is the most important thing, especially when working at heights. Make sure your PPE is complete, and your equipment is in top condition.
Slate hammer: It is probably the most recognised tool for slating, specially designed to combine cutting, punching, and nailing in one handy implement. It features a sharp end for punching holes and trimming slates, while the opposite side has a flat hammerhead for driving nails.
Slate cutter: Used to cut natural slate pieces on site to the desired size and shape. It works like a guillotine, applying pressure to cleanly snap the slate without cracking or damaging it.
Slater’s anvil: Used for cutting and shaping slate with precision. Typically mounted on a batten or scaffolding, it provides a solid surface where roofers can trim slates using a slate hammer, ensuring clean and accurate cuts.
Hooks and nails: The main fixing method for natural slates in the UK is copper or stainless-steel nails, securing slates directly to battens or OSB board.
Slate ripper: A tool for removing individual slates without disturbing the surrounding ones.
Roofing square: An essential measuring tool for slaters, helping to mark precise cuts and angles. It ensures accuracy when cutting and aligning slates for a clean, professional finish.
Chalk line: A simple but essential tool for marking straight, precise guidelines on battens or underlay, ensuring accurate slate alignment during installation.
Tape measurer: A construction staple to help with every element of a project. For installing a slate roof, its vital to check measurements throughout the install. It’s particularly important for accurately measuring lengths of battens and correctly distributing the chalk lines according to the required head lap for the pitch!
Carpenter’s pencil: A simple utensil but not one to forget! It’s a durable, flat pencil used by roofers to mark slates and battens. Its shape prevents it from rolling away and ensures clear, precise markings.
CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate bible: Your ultimate guide to everything you need to know about this remarkable material. It’s the go-to resource for all things slate, packed with valuable insights in one convenient place.
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