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Q: Is TruSlate™ real slate?
Yes. Our slates are genuine, hand split quarried slate.
Q: Why does the TruSlate™ System
cost so much less than traditional slate?
It’s simple: we’ve eliminated the wasted slate needed for
an old-fashioned slate roof. Less slate means less weight, so there is
no need for additional structural requirements on your roof which can
be very expensive. Another advantage is it’s easier to install.
Our unique hanger system makes installation a breeze, even for a contractor
who has never done a slate roof.
Q: The TruSlate™ System is lighter
in weight than an old-fashioned slate system. Are the slates thinner than
old-fashioned slate?
No. In fact, at 1/4” to 3/8” our slates are comparable to
old-fashioned slate. Our weight savings comes from the length reduction.
We have cleverly eliminated the wasted slate (i.e., the part you never
see) and replaced it with an ultra-tough waterproofing material (UnderBlock
UV & Moisture Barrier). In short, what you see is real, genuine slate.
What you don’t see, isn’t.
Q: What is the ultra-tough material and
is it durable?
UnderBlock™ UV & Moisture Barrier is a specially blended high
density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is widely known for its durability and
is commonly used as a geomembrane for landfill liners and pond liners.
It has also been used for decades as a covering for telephone wires and
electrical cables. When exposed, properly blended HDPE has shown exceptional
resistance to weathering, freezing and stress cracking. Experts claim
that when exposed, it should last for over 100 years. When covered (as
in a landfill or with slate) it should last for hundreds of years.
Q: How is the UnderBlock™ UV and Moisture Barrier attached to the
slate?
It’s not bonded to the slate. It’s simply installed under
each course of slate.
Q: What type of roof deck protection is recommended?
We recommend Deck-Armor™, Premium Roof Deck Protection, a tough,
breathable, non-asphaltic product.
Q: What type of roof deck protection
is recommended for Class A fire protection?
For UL Class “A” fire rating, use VersaShield™ underlayment
in combination with an approved GAF-Elk Roof Deck Protection, minimum
ASTM D-226 #30 roofing felt.
Q: Where does TruSlate slate come from?
TruSlate offers slate from quarries all over the world (e.g., U.S., Brazil,
China, etc.). Some areas produce unique colors that are only indigenous
to that area.
Q: What is the difference between imported
and domestic slate?
Geography does not affect the quality of slate. Our slate is mined from
around the globe to give our customers a breadth of colors and textures.
Q: Can I
install over asphalt shingles?
No. The asphalt shingles would need to be torn off to provide a clean
deck surface.
Q: Is there a maximum
or minimum sloped roof that TruSlate™ can be installed on?
Yes. You should not install TruSlate™ Premium Roofing on slopes
of less than 4:12. On slopes of 4:12 up to and including 5:12, a ASTM
D1970 compliant waterproof leak barrier membrane must be applied to
the roof deck.
Q: Can I walk on the slate to clean my skylights?
With proper instruction and care (and fall protection in place), you
can traverse your roof with almost no damage to the slates. Using a
polyurethane foam pad will help distribute your weight and reduce the
chance of breaking slates. If major work or traffic is anticipated,
it is easy to remove slates and nail or screw steps to the roof. When
finished, simply slide another piece of HDPE over the nail holes as
flashing and slide the slates back into place working your way down
the roof.
Q: My neighbor recently
replaced his roof with a synthetic slate. Some of the slates have curled
up and warped. Some are also fading. Does real slate do that?
No. Real, genuine slate weathers gracefully over time. Because each
piece will age slightly differently, a genuine slate roof becomes more
beautiful over time adding charm and elegance to any home.
Q: How are ridges
and hips done?
Trim slate pieces are predrilled and ready to install. The standard
piece is 7” wide x 16” long and when installed has a 10”
exposure. Traditional saddle-type installation is the most popular although
some customers prefer copper ridge caps, antique Spanish clay tile,
or other custom methods.
Q: Can I use a ridge vent with your System?
Yes. TruSlate™ Ridge Vent was designed specifically for the TruSlate
system.
Q: What are the hangers
made of? Can you see them?
The hangers are made of spring hardened stainless steel wire. After
they are formed, they are painted with a baked-on powder coating to
match the slates. As the photos show, they are virtually invisible from
the ground.
Q: What is the availability
of your slate?
It depends on the color and quantity you need. Although we strive to
maintain an inventory, our stock is constantly changing. When ordering
slate, it is best to plan on an 8 week lead time although, in most cases,
we’ll have it in stock or already on the way to our warehouses.
Q: Will I see gaps
when installed?
When installed correctly, you should not see gaps in between the slate
courses or between the slates.
Q: Because the slate
isn’t overlapped like old-fashioned slate, should I be concerned
about leakage?
No, because the UnderBlock™ UV & Moisture Barrier is the foundation
of the TruSlate™ system and is made from a high-density polyethylene
(HDPE) providing exceptional resistance to weathering, freezing, and
stress cracking.
Q: Are there any
weather conditions not conducive for installation?
TruSlate™ roofing system can be installed even during the harshest
weather conditions because installation does not require that you nail
the slate. The unique hanger system and UV & UnderBlock™ moisture
barrier provide protection for the roof during all types of weather.
Q: Will the color
fade?
Slate, like any other natural building product, can fade a bit over
time with constant UV exposure. The weathered look of natural slate
adds to its old world charm.
Q: How do different
lighting conditions affect the look of the roof?
Because it is a completely natural material, the appearance of a TruSlate™
roof will vary depending on the amount and type of light that reaches
the roof. It is not uncommon for the appearance of a TruSlate™
slate roof to vary considerably throughout the day as the sun moves
across the sky. This variation is part of the charm and natural beauty
of a genuine slate roof. |
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