Replacing an 100 Year Old Slate Roof:
- Rhona OConnor
- Oct 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 6, 2024
Working on an old slate roof is always an adventure, especially when the roof is nearly 100 years old and at the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. This particular project involved not just replacing the slates but also addressing some underlying structural issues that had developed over the decades.
Upon removing the old slates, it became clear that several rafters had rotted away, compromised by years of exposure to the elements. Without any felt or insulation to protect them, these wooden beams had succumbed to the relentless march of time. Each rotten rafter we replaced felt like a step closer to restoring the integrity of the house.
The lack of insulation was another significant challenge. In the past, roofs were often built without modern considerations for energy efficiency and protection against the weather. This roof was no exception. The absence of felt meant that there was no barrier against moisture, which had undoubtedly contributed to the deterioration of the wooden structure beneath the slates.
We meticulously replaced each rotten rafter, ensuring that the new wood was treated and sturdy enough to support the new roof. After reinforcing the structure, we installed a double leayer of modern felt and insulation, creating protection that the house never had before. This not only ensures the longevity of the roof but also improves the overall energy efficiency of the home, keeping it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Finally, with the structural and insulation work complete, we began laying the new slates. Each piece was carefully placed, ensuring a tight, secure fit that would stand up to the elements. The result was a beautifully restored roof that not only maintained the historical charm of the house but also provided modern-day protection.
Now, sealed and secure, this new roof is poised to protect the house for the next 100 years, safeguarding its inhabitants from the elements and preserving a piece of history for generations to come.
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