Traditional Slate Roofing Services in Cambridge
Durable and Timeless Roofing Solutions
Slate roofing is one of the oldest and most durable roofing materials available, offering unmatched longevity, fire resistance, and classic aesthetic appeal. Even with the rise of modern roofing materials, traditional slate roofing remains a preferred choice for homeowners seeking a roof that combines beauty with performance.
At P.S. Dean Roofing, we specialise in traditional slate roof installation, maintenance, and repair across Cambridge and the surrounding areas, delivering craftsmanship that lasts for decades — and often centuries.
What Is Slate Roofing?
Slate is a metamorphic rock formed from clay, silt, and other sedimentary rocks under intense heat and pressure over millions of years. Its natural properties make it:
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Extremely durable and long-lasting
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Resistant to fire, moisture, and extreme weather
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Available in a variety of natural colors, including grey, blue, green, black, and red, depending on quarry origin and mineral composition
Each piece of slate is carefully hand-split along its natural cleavage planes, creating thin, flat tiles that are perfectly suited for roofing.
Traditional Slate Roofing Installation
Installing a slate roof is a skilled, labor-intensive process that requires expert craftsmanship:
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Underlayment Preparation – A layer of roofing felt or synthetic material is laid to protect the roof deck from moisture and provide a smooth surface for the slate tiles.
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Starter Course – The first row of slates, usually slightly larger than the rest, is installed along the bottom edge of the roof to provide support and prevent water penetration.
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Laying Slates – Individual slates are arranged from the bottom up, left to right, overlapping each row below. Tiles are cut and positioned carefully to ensure a precise fit. Nails or clips secure each slate to the roof deck, hidden by the overlapping tiles above.
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Ridge Tiles – Specially designed ridge tiles are installed along the roof’s peak to provide a polished, weatherproof finish.
This meticulous process ensures a waterproof, structurally sound, and visually striking roof that can withstand centuries of weather and environmental exposure.
Why Choose Slate Roofing?
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Longevity – Properly installed slate roofs can last over 100 years.
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Durability – Resistant to fire, wind, and extreme weather conditions.
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Aesthetic Appeal – Each slate tile has a unique texture and color, adding character and elegance to any property.
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Sustainability – Slate is a natural material that can be reused or recycled, reducing environmental impact.
Why Choose P.S. Dean Roofing for Slate Roofing
At P.S. Dean Roofing, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern safety and building standards. Our expert team in Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, St Neots, and Royston ensures that every slate roof is installed or repaired to the highest quality standards, providing a roof that is both beautiful and long-lasting.
Whether you are restoring a heritage property or installing a new slate roof, our team provides expert guidance, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance to preserve your investment.
Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you
Please enter all the details in the enquiry form, and as much information as you can … this really helps us provide the best service possible regarding estimating your rofing project.
You can call Paul on 07752 711175 to discuss your requirements, or email us directly at paul@psdeanroofing.co.uk with any plans or documents so we can review your project.
Alternatively please fill in our enquiry form below