Copper Flashing and Metalwork for Slate Roofs
Because quality slate can last a very long time, the metal around it should too. Copper is commonly used on slate roofs for valleys, flashing, ridge caps, built-in gutters and slate hooks.
Signs you might notice
- Older steel or painted metal that is rusting
- Mixed metals touching each other and corroding
- Soldered seams that have split
- Green copper that has worn thin in drip zones
Common causes
- Metal chosen for low cost rather than long life
- Contact between copper and incompatible metals or fasteners
- Thermal movement cracking soldered joints
What a slate professional should check
- 1.Metal type and weight at each detail
- 2.Seams, solder joints and fasteners
- 3.Places where different metals meet
Repair options
Copper work can range from a single chimney flashing to full valley and ridge replacement. The scope should follow what the assessment actually finds.
Final scope depends on an in-person assessment. Nothing on this page is a diagnosis of your roof.
Questions homeowners ask
- Does all the metal need to be copper?
- No. Copper is common for long life, but the right metal depends on the detail, the existing roof, and budget.