Coastal slate re-roof, Parkside, Seaham

The situation

A 1960s detached on Parkside, Seaham - half a mile from the North Sea. Original concrete tiles were only 40 years old but the salt exposure had pitted them badly on the windward (east) elevation and a storm the previous winter had ripped three off the same side.

The problem

Concrete tile was the wrong specification for the location. We recommended natural slate (which weathers salt spray for centuries - see Whitby Abbey) with stainless A4 fixings and an upgraded ridge detail. Owner initially hesitated at the price difference but a 20-year whole-life cost comparison made the case.

Our approach

Full strip. Replaced one rotten rafter at the east eaves. New breathable membrane rated for coastal exposure (Klober Permo Forte). Laid Spanish natural slate from Cafersa - harder-wearing than Welsh slate at about 70% of the price. Stainless A4 fixings throughout (not galvanised). Dry-ridge with ventilated ridge tiles (reduces condensation in loft, important near the sea).

Spec

• Cafersa Spanish natural slate, 500×250mm
• Stainless A4 fixings (coastal spec)
• Klober Permo Forte - coastal-rated membrane
• Marley Klober dry-ridge ventilated system
• Code-5 lead abutments to gable chimney
• Cast-aluminium gutter (salt-resistant) instead of standard uPVC

The outcome

Six days. The house now has a 75+ year roof that'll outlive the owners, the neighbours, and most of the street. Upfront cost was ~20% more than the equivalent in concrete - total cost over 75 years is about a third.

"Honest advice, patient with our questions about slate vs tile, and the finished job is beautiful. Our neighbour has already asked us for the number."

- The Brooks Family, Parkside, Seaham

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