title: Roofing | Pitched | Repair: Slate roof repair after storm damage in Greenock

Slate Roof Repair After Storm Damage in Greenock

After a recent storm, several roof slates have blown off my tenement building in Greenock (PA16). I live on the top floor, and I’ve noticed my neighbours are also missing slates. As the building is three stories high, I need to get this repaired quickly to prevent leaks or further damage. What’s the best way to fix a slate roof at this height, and how soon can it be done?

Why Slate Roofs Are Prone to Storm Damage

Slate roofs are known for their durability, often lasting over 100 years, but they can still suffer from storm damage. Common causes of slate loss include:

Strong Winds – High winds can lift slates, particularly if the fixings have weakened over time.
Ageing Roof Materials – Older tenement roofs may have corroded nails (known as “nail sickness”), making slates more likely to come loose.
Poor Fixings or Previous Repairs – If previous repairs were not carried out correctly, slates might not be as secure as they should be.
Building Height – Higher roofs, such as those on tenements, are more exposed to wind, increasing the likelihood of slate displacement.

Steps to Repair a Storm-Damaged Slate Roof

Repairing a high-level slate roof requires specialist equipment and expertise. The typical process includes:

Inspection – A roofer will assess the damage, checking for loose slates and potential structural issues.
Safe Access – As this is a three-story building, scaffolding or a cherry picker may be required to ensure safe working conditions.
Replacing Missing Slates – New slates matching the existing roof are installed using copper nails or slate hooks.
Securing Loose Slates – Nearby slates are checked to prevent further dislodgement.
Final Checks – The roof is examined for any weak points, ensuring long-term protection against future storms.

Cost of Slate Roof Repairs in Greenock

Repairing a slate roof varies in cost depending on access, the number of slates missing, and any additional work needed. Estimated costs include:

Replacing a few missing slates: £150 – £400.
Extensive slate repairs (10+ slates): £500 – £1,500.
Scaffolding hire: £500 – £2,000 (depending on the height and duration of the work).

Given the height of a tenement, scaffolding may be required, which can significantly impact the cost.

Where to Find Roofing Materials in Greenock

If new slates are needed, local suppliers include:

Travis Perkins – Supplies slate tiles and fixings.
Haldane Fisher – Offers a range of roofing materials, including traditional slate.
Jewson Greenock – Stocks slates and accessories for roofing repairs.

Nearby Areas We Cover

We provide slate roof repair services in Greenock (PA16) and surrounding areas, including Gourock, Port Glasgow, Wemyss Bay, and Inverkip.

Preparing for Roof Repairs

Before work begins:

Inform neighbours, as scaffolding may need to be erected.
Check for leaks inside your property and cover any exposed areas to prevent water damage.
Ensure there is clear access for contractors, particularly if a cherry picker is required.

Most minor slate repairs can be completed in a day, but extensive work or scaffolding installation may take longer.

If you need expert slate roof repair in Greenock, contact a professional roofer today. You may also be interested in guttering repairs in Greenock or roof inspections in Gourock to ensure your home remains protected.