If you have been looking at getting a slate roof replacement, you’ll likely have come across both Welsh slate and Spanish slate, and be wondering what the difference is. The topic of Welsh Slate vs Spanish Slate often comes up in conversations with architects, designers and roofers, and the purpose of this article is to delve into this. However, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we should first start by explaining how slate is made… and what even is slate?
Where does slate come from?
Slate is an extremely fine-grained rock, which takes millions of years to form from clay deposits and volcanic dust. These clay deposits were found in seas that have since disappeared over time.
The composition of slate means, with cleaves and grains, it can be split into thin slabs whilst still having great strength and durability. Ideal for creating thin sheets for roofing.
Slate can come in a variety of colours; black, purple, blue, green, red or grey. The darker colours are due to deposits rich in carbon or finely divided iron sulfide. The red colours come from iron oxide, and the greens come from chlorite.
Welsh Slate
Most of the Welsh slate used today comes from Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda or Cwt-y-Bugail Quarry above Blaenau Ffestiniog. It is the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of slates – the best you can get!
Slate mining in North Wales historically comes from important quarries like Penrhyn Quarry, and Dinorwic Quarry and areas like Blaenau Ffestiniog where most workings were deep underground due to the steeply angled slate veins. Now only some sections of these areas is still in working operation. Welsh slate is regarded highly for its durability, being formed around 500 million years ago during the Cambrian period. It comes at a higher price but is ultimately cost-effective as it will require less maintenance and lasts for up to 100 years or longer.
Welsh slate is 100% waterproof and will not be affected by intense UV light.
Spanish Slate
90% of worldwide slate sold today is quarried in Spain! The slate is still very durable and strong and will provide excellent coverage with lots of protection for your home. It will last for many years, most likely longer than you will reside there, whilst adding beauty and a traditional look.
So, they’re both great roofing materials, but what is the difference between them?
What is the difference between Welsh and Spanish slate?
Welsh slate is a lot older than Spanish slate, and it has been lying in the depths of the ground for a much longer period than Spanish, so it has different properties.
Due to its age, the Welsh slate is a lot denser in composition than Spanish. This means it is a lot stronger and more durable. Spanish slate is still very durable, but it will inevitably degrade and discolour faster than the alternative. It is still a great choice for roofs and will come at a smaller cost. The other great thing about Welsh slate is that you are supporting the local Welsh industry, making sure that your building retains its local character and distinctive Welsh aesthetic. Be sure to check your roof before winter to see if you need any slates replaced or repaired. You shouldn’t delay repairs, after all, “a stitch in time saves nine”!
MG Roofing is your local Welsh slate expert, feel free to get in touch today to get slates professionally installed. Check out our testimonials to see more.
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