contents

About Everite and Nutec 2

Nutec Slate Roofing 4

Nutec Roof Slates Mechanical and Physical Properties 5

Nutec Roof Slates Product Range and Dimensions 7

Accreditation 7

General Design Criteria 8

Safety, Storage and Handling Instructions 9

Recommended Slating Tools 11

General Installation Guidelines 12

Supporting the waterproofing membrane 12
Preparing the roof for Fixing Battens 14
Fixing and levelling of Battens 15
Squaring the Roof 16
Marking out the Battens for Slating 16
Trimming of Battens 18
Laying of Slates 19
Fixing the Ridge 21
Constructing an Open Valley 22
Construction of a Closed Valley 23
Constructing a Raised Boston Hip 25
Flashing around a Chimney 27
Special Flashing Details 28
To replace a damaged Roof Slate 29

Nutec Slate Fixing Accessories 30

Estimating Quantities 31

Everite National Offices and Contact Details 36

Slate Roofing 2012 1

about everite and nutec

Catalogue Information

The information contained in this catalogue serves as a general guide only and should not be accepted
as the standard for all construction. EVERITE can assist in designs of a special nature, however, architects,
engineers and specifiers must finally approve the acceptability in terms of the design and construction
criteria, as well as other implications.

About Everite and Nutec

Everite Building Products

Everite Building Products, wholly owned by JSE listed Group Five, has been associated with the South
African building industry since 1941. Producing a wide range of materials that satisfy the needs of the
commercial, industrial and residential market sectors, Everite is renowned for its comprehensive range of
Nutec Roofing and Cladding Solutions and includes fibre-cement roofing, cladding, ceilings and building
columns amongst others.

Nutec fibre-cement high performance properties and added benefits include: the use of safe renewable
fibres; considerable tensile strength with enhanced dynamic load bearing properties; excellent thermal
properties; water and wind resistance; hail resistance; fire resistance and resistance to fungus, rodents and
acid.

A programme of quality assurance in accordance with the requirements of the International Standards
Organisation (ISO 9001:2008) is entrenched in Everite’s process and management systems.
Quality of all products is continuously monitored as specified by the South African National Standards and
recognised international bodies.

Everite’s 54 hectare manufacturing facility near Johannesburg is well located and has immediate access
to all major road and rail links to national destinations and major ports. The company has branches
located at major centres throughout South Africa. Nutec products are distributed through leading stockists
countrywide and an established export market further endorses the international acceptance of the Nutec
Roofing and Cladding Solutions range of products.

Nutec

Nutec is the registered name for products manufactured without asbestos as a raw material. Nutec fibre
cement products are manufactured using a mixture of cellulose fibre, cement, silica and water.

Through ongoing research and development, Everite Building Products are committed to provide product of
world-class quality.

2 Slate Roofing 2012

 about everite and nutec

Accordingly, the Nutec product range is continuously reviewed not only in the interests of the end-user
and superior product performance, but also with respect to its impact on the environment. Everite Building
Products has over the years established a reputation for producing a variety of outstanding quality products
which have been used in a wide range of external and internal applications.

Environmental benefits of Nutec Fibre Cement

Environmental costs incurred by using fibre cement are measurably less than for other
building materials. (Low embodied energy per m2).
Requires less energy in assembly and construction than all other wall materials except timber.
1 Low energy consumption in transportation and installation.
Environmental costs relating to ozone layer depletion, carcinogenic substances and solid
waste emissions are almost negligible.
Low environmental impact in relation to ozone layer depletion, carcinogenic substances, and
solid waste emissions.
1 No pesticides are involved in the manufacture or use of fibre cement.

The benefits of Nutec Fibre Cement

1 The use of safe fibres.
1 Considerable tensile strength with enhanced dynamic load bearing properties.
1 Cost competitive.
1 Excellent thermal properties.
1 Water tight and wind resistant.
1 Hail resistant.
1 Fire-resistant.
1 Fungus and rodent resistant.
1 Acid resistant.
1 Complies with SABS ISO 9933.
1 ISO 9001 : 2008 Quality Management System.

The environmental benefits in the manufacturing process of Nutec Fibre Cement

1 Recycling the water used in production many times.
1 Recycling solid wastes.
1 Using sustainable raw materials in production.

Embodied Energy – Definition

Embodied energy is the energy consumed by all of the processes associated with the production of a
building, from the mining and processing of natural resources to manufacturing, transport and product
delivery. Embodied energy does not include the operation and disposal of the building material. This would
be considered in a life cycle approach. Embodied energy is the ‘upstream’ or ‘front-end’ component of the
lifecycle impact of a home. Fibre cement is one of the most energy efficient materials on the market and it
has one of the lowest embodied energy contents per square metre of cover of any building product.

Slate Roofing 2012 3

f e at u r e s

Nutec Slate Roofing

Nutec Roof Slates form part of the Nutec roofing range which includes the Nutec Bigsix and Nutec Victorian
roofing profile. Favoured for more than seven decades in all sectors of the building industry, the range is
renowned for years of trouble free roofing and offers designers and specifiers freedom and flexibility when
functional, aesthetic and cost criteria need to be met.

Nutec Roof Slates are the ideal roofing or cladding material to use on any project where class, character
and individuality are of prime importance. The precise detail of the application and consistent appearance
ensure an excellent finish.

Features

Finish and Colour

Nutec Roof Slates are available in a plain or textured finish and a range of standard roofing colours. This
provides designers creativity and individuality of expression, whether recreating old-world charm or meeting
today’s critical architectural design criteria. Nutec Roof Slates are factory coated with a specially developed
paint system. Natural weathering will cause the paint coating to fade over time. Inspection and re-coating of
the roof recommended after seven (7) years.

Economical
Their light mass requires a correspondingly light supporting structure, thereby offering an economical
alternative to other slate and roofing materials and can be used for vertical cladding applications.
Nutec Roof Slates by nature do not corrode and are unaffected by ultraviolet light.

Thermal Insulation
Nutec Roof Slates have excellent thermal properties. Thermal Conductivity (K-Value) of the Nutec material is
approximately 0.3 W/m.K or 0.3 W/m.°C. (Test method ASTM C518)

Fire Resistant
Nutec Roof Slates are Non-Combustible and have a Class 1 Spread of Flame Index when evaluated in
accordance with SANS 10177: Parts V and II respectively. The product can be used in applications with
continuous temperature not exceeding 150°C.

Rodent and Termite Resistance

Nutec Roof Slates have been tested in accordance with SANS 5419 for Rodent Resistance and awarded a
rating of Class B1.
No damage was recorded when tested for Termite Resistance in accordance with SANS 5471.

Water Tightness
Nutec Roof Slates in their natural state pre coating are non-permeable when tested in accordance with
SANS 685. Darkening is normal because of moisture absorption but no droplets form.

4 Slate Roofing 2012

 mechanical and physical properties

Nutec Roof Slates Mechanical and Physical Properties

Parameter Unit Plain & Textrata Slates Test Method

DIMENSIONS
Thickness Tolerance: mm ± 0.8 SANS 803
Length Tolerance: mm ±3 SANS 803
Width Tolerance: mm ±3 SANS 803
Squareness mm 3 SANS 803
Edge Trueness mm/m 3 SANS 803

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Minimum MOR : With Grain MPa 7.40 (1) SANS 803
Minimum MOR : Across Grain Mpa 10.60 (1) SANS 803
Target Density g/cm3 1.26 ISO 8336
Maximum Hygral Linear Expansion mm/m 2.47 SANS 803
Thermal Conductivity W/m.K - ASTM C518
Thermal Expansion Coefficient (20 - 70)°C-1 Negligible SANS Document
722/W 1009
Moisture Movement
With Grain % 0.06 ASTM C1185
Across grain % 0.06 ASTM C1185
Moisture Content % 6.3 ASTM C1185
Water Absorption % 37.72 ASTM C1185
Permeability - No droplets formed SANS 685
pH - 12

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MOR: With Grain Mpa 4.20 (2) ASTM C1185
Mpa 7.50 (3) ASTM C1185
MOR: Across Grain Mpa 7.75 (2) ASTM C1185
Mpa 12.10 (3) ASTM C1185
Classification in accordance to ASTM
C1186
Compressive Strength parallel
to Surface of Board
With Grain Mpa 10.56 (2) ASTM D1037
Mpa 15.57 (3) ASTM D1037
Across Grain Mpa 11.54 (2) ASTM D1037
Mpa 19.58 (2) ASTM D1037
Tensile Strength Perpendicular to
Surface of Board Mpa 0.83 (2) ASTM D1037
Mpa 1.02 (3) ASTM D1037
Young’s Modulus (E.Mod)
With Grain Mpa 5337(3) ASTM C120
Mpa 3974(2) ASTM C120
Across Grain Mpa 6474(3) ASTM C120
Mpa 4681(2) ASTM C120

Block Shear Strength Mpa 1.60 (2) ASTM D143

Mpa 1.32 (3) ASTM D143
(1) Dried till constant weight (2) Saturated with water (3) Equilibrium conditions

Slate Roofing 2012 5

mechanical and physical properties

Nutec Roof Slates Mechanical and Physical Properties

Parameter Unit Plain & Textrata Slates Test Method

OTHER PROPERTIES

Fire Properties
Fire Index Class 1 SANS 10177: Part II,
BS 476: Part 7

Non-Combustibility Non combustible BS 476: Part 4,

SANS 10177:Part V

Continuous Temperature - 150°C

Frost Resistance
Cycles Completed - 50 ASTM C1185
Strength Ratio % 78.5 ASTM C1185

Biological Resistance
Rodent Resistance Class B1 SANS 5419
Termite Resistance - No Damage SANS 5471

(1) Dried till constant weight (2) Saturated with water (3) Equilibrium conditions

6 Slate Roofing 2012

 product range and dimensions

Nutec Roof Slates Product Range and Dimensions

SLATES
Rectangular Plain Mitred and Un-Mitred
406 +- 3
Size 610 mm x 406 mm
20
Thickness 7 mm
Slates per m2 10
Mass per Unit 2 kg
Mass per m 2
± 21 kg
252

Product No. Colour / Mitred

610 + 3

020-901 Black
260
020-902 Charcoal
020-901 Cloud Grey
338
-

Product No. Colour / Un-Mitred

020-951 Black
020-952 Charcoal
203 020-951 Cloud Grey

All dimensions in mm.

Non Stock Items

Rectangular Textrata Un-Mitred

Size 610 mm x 406 mm
Thickness 7 mm
Slates per m2 10
Mass per Unit 3 kg
Mass per m 2
± 24 kg

Product No. Colour / Un-Mitred

020-802 Black
020-824 Charcoal

Pressed Slates (610 mm x 406 mm x 5 mm thick) are available on

request for replacement purposes only.

Accreditation: SABS, SANS & ISO

Nutec Slates carry the SABS Mark under specification SANS 803.
Everite is an accredited ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System listed company.

Slate Roofing 2012 7

design criteria

General Design Criteria

High Wind Conditions

The information presented in this catalogue is a guide for wind loading conditions. A structural engineer
should be used for design purposes to ensure that spans, fixing details and roof pitches meet the
requirements for the particular conditions.

Ventilation
Climatic conditions in certain parts of Southern Africa are such that condensation may occur on the
underside of the roofing slates. It is therefore recommended that the space between the ceiling and the
roofing slates is adequately ventilated.

Purpose-made ventilating slates can be manufactured for situations where no other form of ventilation can
be accommodated.

Roof Pitch
Nutec Roof Slates are designed for a minimum roof pitch of 17,5°. In high wind areas the slates may no
longer provide a waterproof covering and a waterproof underlay must be installed. Refer Fig. 2, for more
details. It is recommended that the pitch be increased as specified by the structural engineer or architect.

Substructure
A high standard of finish can be achieved if the supporting structure is accurate and level. Warped,
twisted or poor quality battens or sagging roof trusses will reflect adversely in the finished plane of
the roof. Use only well seasoned graded structural timber.

To ensure that lines are true and the laps uniform, battens must be fixed exactly to the spacing specified.

The batten sizes required for the various rafter/truss spacing and for the different slate sizes are given
in Table 1.

Fixing Accessories
Fixing accessories in the form of galvanised and copper clout nails as well as copper disc rivets have been
specially developed for Nutec Roof Slates. Full details are scheduled under Fixing Accessories.

Do not allow the use of non-approved, and often inferior, fixing accessories. EVERITE reserves its
right to withdraw its guarantees if non approved fixing accessories are used.

Contact EVERITE sales office if in doubt.

Site Service
Service personnel are available on request to provide assistance on recommended storage, handling and
erection of the EVERITE’s products, before and during installation.

8 Slate Roofing 2012

 safety and handling

Safety and Handling Instructions

General
Manufactured from Nutec fibre-cement, Nutec Roof Slates do not contain asbestos fibre and are therefore
excluded from the following:
Asbestos Regulations of 2001, which forms part of the Act No. 85: Occupational Health and
Safety.
South African Code SANS 10229: Packaging of dangerous goods for road and rail transportation
in South Africa.
Nutec Roof Slates do not pose any adverse effects on the environment. Off-cuts and dust created during
site work may be disposed off on any non-hazardous waste landfill site.

Safety

Installation and maintenance

Although the Nutec Roof Slates are manufactured without asbestos fibres, it is nevertheless
recommended that tools which do not create excessive dust are used when working with
the product. Ordinary carpenters’ hand tools can be used effectively.
Use duckboards as walking areas on the roof to avoid damage to slates and injury to
workers.
Wear soft soled shoes for better grip.
Do not carry heavy loads over completed areas of the roof or use these as staging posts
for the next section.
During loading of roof, do not stack more than 3 bundles (30 slates) in any one position
on the roof.
Do not exceed recommended purlin spacing.

Storage and Handling Instructions

General Handling
Nutec Roof Slates are manufactured from a composite material containing cement and may be damaged
under excessively high shock loads. Reasonable care should therefore be taken to ensure that the products
are not dropped or subjected to rough handling. This is particularly important to avoid damage to the
coated surface and chipping of the edges.

Slate Roofing 2012 9

storage and handling

Storage
1 Prior to Installation Nutec Roof Slates must remain on pallets and kept under cover until installed.
1 Strict stock rotation should be adhered to.

Storage On-site:
A suitable level compacted area must be made available where Nutec Roof Slates can be stored
safely so that they cannot be damaged or soiled by passing traffic.
They must be stacked clear off the ground on suitable timber supports to a maximum height of
25 bundles (10 slates per bundle).
Preplanning: Adequate preplanning of deliveries should be made to ensure that Nutec
products are not stored on site for excessive periods. If this is unavoidable, they should be
kept under cover until installed.

Handling
When removing strapping from bundled slates, care should be taken that snips are used.
On no account must the strapping be levered off, as this may damage the slates.
Refer to Fig 1 for Cutting Slate Tiles
For straight cutting of Nutec Roof Slates, a scriber or any other sharp object is all that is required
to scribe the surface of the slate. The slate will break on this line if held firmly on a flat surface
with a straight edge and the surplus part snapped off.

See schedule of Recommended Slating Tools.

Fig 1 : Straight cutting of Nutec Roof Slates

SCRIBING THE SLATE SNAPPING OFF SURPLUS SLATE

Flat surface

Flat surface Snap

off surplus
Slate

Scribe Slate
Secure firmly

10 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Recommended Slating Tools

Product Size L Sketch of Article

No. Description

640-070 Scriber

640-020 Slater’s Hammer

640-030 Slater Ripper

640-080 Parallel Shears

640-041 Slate Cutter

Kwiksnip Slate Guuillotine

Slate Roofing 2012 11

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

General Installation Guidelines

TABLE 1

Batten Requirements for Nutec Roof Slates

Rafter spacing mm Batten Sizes required mm Batten spacing

800 38 x 38 250
950 38 x 50 250
1 100 50 x 50 250

Approximate linear metres of battens required per m2 of roof laid.

610 x 406 mm slates = 4,12 lin. m

Minimum Roof Pitch

Nutec Roof Slates are designed for a minimum roof pitch of 17,5°. In high wind areas the slates may
no longer provide a waterproof covering and a waterproof underlay must be installed.

To support the waterproofing membrane, the following work is essential. Refer Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B
Install suitable boarding or chicken wire mesh over the the rafters.
Fix counter battens directly above the rafters on top of the boarding or chicken wire.
Install waterproofing membrane over the counter battens, allowing it to sag onto the boarding
or chicken wire between the counter battens.
Fix slating battens over waterproofing membrane and nail through counter battens into rafter.

12 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 2A : Installation of Waterproof Underlay

SECTION OF ROOF WITH UNDERLAY

ILLUSTRATING UNDERLAY OVER RAFTERS

9
10

11

12

1
2

3
4

Fig 2B : Installation of Waterproof Underlay

PLAN SHOWING CORRECT

INSTALLATION OF UNDERLAY
12

10

KEY
11
1 Full Slate
2 Starter Slate
3 Tilter Batten
4 Metal Flashing
5 Gutter
6 Gutter Bracket
7 Fascia Board
8 Rafter
9 Boarding or Chicken Wire
10 Counter Batten
11 Waterproofing
12 Batten

Slate Roofing 2012 13

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Nutec Roof Slates laid and fixed in accordance with recommendations will provide many years of trouble-
free protection from the elements. It is however important to be aware of the fact that any distortion or
unevenness in the roof structure and battens will reflect in the final appearance of the application. Time
spent to ensure that the structure and battens are accurate and sound is therefore a small investment in
the process of achieving an excellent result. The step by step erection procedure which follows will assist in
this regard.

Step 1

Preparing the Roof for Fixing Battens

Check that the trusses are properly lined up, correctly secured to the wallplates and that the
bracing is fixed in positon.
Trim the rafter ends to overhang required to accommodate Nutec Fascia Boards where applicable.
Install fascia boards. Refer to catalogue ‘Fascias and Barge Boards’ for installation instructions.
Install gutter brackets and gutters.

Step 2

Marking out the Roof for Fixing Battens Refer Fig.5.

Nail tilter batten in position at feet of rafters on every roof slope.

NB: Tilter batten must be 5mm higher than other battens. Using a slate, determine the overhang
required from the tilter batten into the gutter for proper drainage of rainwater.
Recommended overhang is 50mm measured from the inside edge of the gutter.
Mark the rafter at the top of the slate. This will be the centre line for the third batten.

From this line up towards the ridge, mark the rafter at 250 mm centres.

Using the third batten centre line down towards the gutter, measure 250 mm for the centre line of the second
batten.

Repeat this procedure for every end rafter on every roof slope.

Using a chalk line, mark all rafters accordingly.

14 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 3: Section through Roof

BATTEN SPACING FOR SLATES

5 6

2 7

8
4

3 9

2
250
1 250
250
250
10 250
250
250
uit KEY
11 To s
610 1 Starter slate cut to suit
2 Full slate
3 Timber rafter
50 Overhang into Gutter
4 Batten
5 Under-ridge slate
6 Ridge slate
7 Ridge beam
8 Ridge soaker (Malthoid and Sisalation)
9 Under-ridge soaker (Malthoid)
10 Tiler batten
11 Fascia board

Step 3

Fixing and Levelling of Battens Refer Fig. 3.

Skew nail battens to rafters at centre lines marked, allowing adequately for the overhang required at both
gable ends.
Batten butt-joints must be staggered on rafters.
Nail centre ridge batten in position.
Check evenness of roof plane by spanning a fish line across the roof in various positions.
Level battens where necessary by using wooden wedges.

NB:
For normal wind loading conditions nail length should be batten height plus 40 mm
minimum.
Where hips and valleys are encountered battens should be mitred and aligned at the
intersection of the battens. Refer Fig. 10, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12.

Slate Roofing 2012 15

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 4

Squaring the Roof Refer Fig. 4

Mark the centre of the roof slope on the tilter batten - position A.

Mark position C and D which are equal distances on either side of position A.

Select position B on the ridge batten.

Move position B until distances BC and BD are equal.

Strike a chalk line from A to B, which will be at 90° to the tilter and ridge battens.

Fig 4 : Squaring the Roof

D A C

Step 5

Marking out the Battens for Slating Refer Fig.5.

Starting from the centre line, mark tilter batten on either side of the centre line at equal distances of 206
mm for the 610 x 406 slate, finishing with equal spacings at both gable ends of the roof slope. Repeat this
procedure along the ridge batten.

Strike chalk lines from the tilter batten to the ridge batten to mark remaining battens.

16 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 5 : Marking the Battens for Slating

206 206 206 206 206 206 206 206

KEY

1 Battens at 250 mm centres for 610 x 406 slate

2 Rafters
3 Centre line of roof slope

All dimensions in mm. 4 Tilter batten

Slate Roofing 2012 17

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 6

Trimming of Battens Refer Fig. 6

From the last chalk line at the gable end, mark back on the tilter batten the width of a batten plus the
thickness of the barge board for the barge board option chosen.
Mark the ridge batten in the same way.
Strike a chalk line to mark the remaining battens.
Trim all battens on these marks.
Nail gable trimmer batten in position.

Fig 6 : Barge Board Options

SLATES FINISHING AGAINST BARGE BOARDS

1 4
3
2
2
1
3
4
5

SLATES OVERHANGING BARGE BOARDS

1 4
3
2
2
1
3
4
5

USING A 90º L-SHAPED BARGE BOARD

1 4
3

2
1
3
4
5

KEY

1 Roof Slate
2 Trimmer batten
3 Batten
4 Barge board
5 Masonry wall

18 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 7

Laying of Slates. Refer Fig.8

IMPORTANT GUIDELINES
Copper nails should be used throughout in all corrosive areas, and also on all exposed areas,
e.g. ridges and hips.
Fixing holes. 610 mm x 406 mm slates are pre-drilled with 3 holes. The 2 holes on the side of the
slate are for nailing the slate to the batten, while the third hole at the bottom centre is for the disc
rivet. Refer Fig. 7.
The nails securing the slates must be driven firmly but not too hard as this will tilt the slate.
The top of slates should not extend above the centre line of the battens, as this will interfere with
the nailing of the next row of slates.
Cut starter slates to size required. For cutting of slates Refer Fig.1. Retain offcuts for use at the
ridge.
The length of the starter slate is measured from the overhang into the gutter to the centre
line of the second batten.

Starting at one end of the roof, fix starter slates between chalk lines with 40mm galvanised or copper clout
nails, to tilter batten.
Ensure that the top of starter slate is not above the centre of the second batten.
For the next row cut a standard slate in half down its length. Fix the cut slate and drill the additional hole for
the second fixing nail. Insert a copper disc rivet in positon B. Refer Fig. 8.

Drill a second hole in this half slate through the starter slate Fig 7 : Fixing Holes for Roof Slates
in position A (centred on the slate and on the centre line
SLATES
of the tilter batten) and fix with a 50 mm clout nail. 406 +- 3
Next to the cut slate use a full slate and fix with 40 mm
20
clout nails. Insert a copper disc rivet under the leading edge
in position D, before placing the next slate. Insert a copper
disc rivet in position C between the two starter slates
252

and through the hole provided in the full slate and bend it
over. Continue in this manner until the second row has been
completed.
610 + 3

260

For the third row, place a full slate in position over disc rivet B
338

and nail to the third batten. Bend over the disc rivet and
proceed with full slates according to chalk lines. Continue fixing
full and cut slates to the ridge of the roof in accordance with
previous instructions.

203
NB: The last slate at the ridge has to be cut to suit.
Refer Fig.9. All dimensions in mm.

Slate Roofing 2012 19

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 8 : Laying of Slates

LAYING OF STARTER SLATE - FIRST ROW

9
8

10

11
1
12 3

LAYOUT OF SECOND ROW

9
8

10
2

11 3
D B
4
C A
12 5

LAYOUT OF THIRD ROW - 610 MM X 406 MM SLATES

9
8

10
7

11
4
12 2

KEY

1 Starter slate
2 Cut slate 2nd row
3 Nailing position
4 Full slate 2nd row
5 50 mm Copper clout nail
6 Copper disc river
7 Full slate 3rd row
8 Rafters
9 Battens
10 3rd Batten
11 2nd Batten
12 Tilter batten

20 Slate Roofing 2012

 roofing accessories

Step 8

Fixing the Ridge Refer Fig.9.

To obtain a straight ridge, lay slates to chalk line marking the position of the bottom edge of the ridge slates.
Ensure that the centre ridge batten is fixed in position.
Cut under-ridge slates to suit, ensuring that these butt at the apex of the roof and that the overlap onto the
previous row is the same as for the rest of the roof.
Cut and lay a continuous bitumen-impregnated soaker to fit under under-ridge slate (100 mm on both sides).
Nail under-ridge slates in position over bitumen-impregnated soaker.
Cut ridge slate to suit, allowing them to butt-join at the apex.
Cut and fit continuous ridge soaker made up of one layer of bitumen-impregnated membrane and a layer of
sisalation or aluminium foil, which is required to protect the membrane from UV deterioration.
In the case of mitred ridge, the offcut retained form the starter slate is cut to suit.
Drill and nail in position using 50 mm copper clout nails.

NB: For the Boston type ridge the offcut retained from the starter slate is cut to suit, half lapped,
drilled and nailed using 50 mm copper clout nails.

Fig 9 : Ridge Options

BOSTON RIDGE MITRED RIDGE

3
1
2
5 3

4
6 6

KEY

1 Ridge slate
2 Ridge batten
3 Ridge soaker
4 Under-ridge slate
5 Under-ridge soaker
6 Full slate
7 Rivet

Slate Roofing 2012 21

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 9 (continued ) : Ridge Options

SECTION THROUGH RIDGE 2

1
3 KEY
4
5 1 Ridge slate
6 2 Ridge batten
7
3 Ridge soaker
4 Under-ridge slate
8 5 Under-ridge soaker
6 Full slate
7 Batten
8 Rafter

Valleys

There are two options for valley construction i.e. open valleys and closed valleys.
As a general rule, galvanised metal flashing will be used in inland areas while copper or lead is
recommended for coastal or corrosive areas.

Step 9

Constructing an Open Valley Refer Fig.10.

Check that valley battens are positioned as close as possible to the channel of the valley flashing piece to
provide for nailing of small cut slates where they occur.
Position the valley flashing. Sections to lap a minimum of 150 mm. Cut at gutter to suit.
Commence slating by fixing starter slates. Mitre and cut to fit valley.
Complete the slating along the same lines with full slates, cutting each slate adjoining the
valley to fit.

Fig 10: Open Valley Details

BATTEN CONSTRUCTION FOR OPEN VALLEY FLASHING WITH STARTER SLATES IN POSITION

22 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 10 (continued ) : Open Valley Details

COMPLETED OPEN VALEY SECTION THROUGH COMPLETED OPEN VALLEY

1 2

4 3 KEY

1 Full slate
2 Cut slate
3 Metal valley flashing
4 Battens

Step 10

Construction of a Closed Valley Refer Fig. 11.

Ensure that battens are neatly mitred and aligned where they intersect on the valley rafter.
Place continuous metal valley flashing 450 mm wide in position. Sections must be lapped 150 mm minimum.
Mitre and fix starter slate in position.
Cut and position individual 450 mm wide bitumen-impregnated soakers.
Cut and fix first row of full slates in the valley.
Cut the second soaker and position with the lower edge just above the disc rivet for the subsequent row of
slates.

Fig 11 : Closed Valley Details

BATTEN DETAIL FOR CLOSED VALLEY FLASHING WITH STARTER SLATES IN POSITION

Slate Roofing 2012 23

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 11 (continued ) : Closed Valley Details

POSITION OF INDIVIDUAL SOAKERS POSITIONING AND MITRING OF FULL SLATES

SECOND SOAKER IN POSITION COMPLETED CLOSED VALLEY

SECTION THROUGH COMPLETED CLOSED VALLEY

3 2 1

KEY

1 Full slate
2 Bitumen-impregnated membrane
3 Slates to be cut on site
4
4 Metal flashing

5 5 Battens

24 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 11

Constructing a Raised Boston Hip Refer Fig.12.

Check that the battens fit neatly against the hip rafter. To raise the hip, nail a batten on top
of the rafter.
Mitre cut and fix starter slate to meet at hip.
For the next row onwards repeat with full slates and mitre to suit.
Position a 380 mm wide continuous bitumen-impregnated soaker centrally over full length of hip.
Cut and fix Boston starter slates.

NB: Slates used for Boston hip are standard slates, halved longitudinally. They are fixed in such
a way that the lower corners of the hip slates line up with the lower edge of normal roof slates, the
upper end of the hip slate being cut.

Fig 12 : Details of Raised Boston Hip

BATTEN LAYOUT FOR BOSTON HIP BOSTON HIP STARTER SLATES IN POSITION

POSITIONING AND MITRING OF FULL SLATES HIP READY FOR COVER SLATES

Slate Roofing 2012 25

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 12 (continued ) : Details of Raised Boston Hip

CONTINUOUS SOAKER ON POSITION CUTTING AND FIXING OF THE HIP STARTER SLATE

COMPLETED RAISED BOSTON HIP FIXING POSITIONS FOR THE BOSTON HIP

11
11 5
5

SECTION THROUGH RAISED BOSTON HIP

KEY

1 Hip slates
2 Bitumen-impregnated membrane
3 Standard slates

5 4 Batten
5 Hip rafter

26 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 12

Flashing around a Chimney Refer Fig. 13.

The standard procedure, which is commonly used, is quite satisfactory for normal pitch roofs.
Ensure that battens are properly finished off around the chimney so that the flashing and slates have a
proper support.
Slate the lower side of the stack and where necessary trim the last full row of roofing slates around the
chimney.
Fix metal apron flashing in position on the lower side of the chimney stack.
Nail the following row of roofing slates in position, covering the apron flashing and trim where necessary
around the stack.
Place the first pair of metal soakers in position on the side of the stack. (For dimensions of apron
soaker refer to ‘Fixing Accessories’).
Fix the next row of slates to butt against the vertical leg of the flashing.
Install the next metal soaker and repeat this procedure.
Position the back flashing and continue with slating.
Complete slating and trim around upper end of stack over back flashing where required.
Fix counter flashing by wedging into raked out brick joints. The counter flashing should be evenly stepped
on chimney sides.

Fig 13: Details of Chimney Flashing

BATTEN LAYOUT AROUND CHIMNEY SLATING TO CHIMNEY

APRON FLASHING TO CHIMNEY SLATING AROUND CHIMNEY

Slate Roofing 2012 27

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Fig 13 (continued ) : Details of Chimney Flashing

POSTIONING ODF INDIVIDUAL METAL SOAKERS SLATING AROUND CHIMNEY CONTINUED

BACK FLASHING IN POSITION SLATING COMPLETED

COUNTER FLASHING IN POSITION

28 Slate Roofing 2012

 i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 13

Special Flashing Details Refer Fig. 14.

In certain instances, special flashing methods may be necessary and a few examples are detailed below.

Fig 14 : Fixing Details for Special Flashing Situations

APEX DETAIL ON MONO-PITCH ROOF ROOF ONTO FACADE FLASHING DETAIL

1 5
1
2 4
4
9 1
4 2
2

4
3

5
5

ABUTMENT FLASHING DETAIL

7
KEY

1 Ridge slate

8 2 Soaker
3 Under-ridge slate
9 4 Batten
5 Timber truss
4
6 Window
10 7 Window sill
8 Metal flashing
5
9 Slate cut to suit
10 Full slate
11
11 Wall

Slate Roofing 2012 29

i n s ta l l at i o n p r o c e d u r e s

Step 14

To replace a damaged roof slate Refer Fig. 15.

Open the copper disc rivet of the damaged slate.
Insert the slate ripper under the damaged slate.
Hook the slate ripper onto the first nail.
Withdraw the slate ripper by tapping it with a hammer.
Repeat for second nail.
Remove broken slate.
Hammer a nail halfway into the exposed batten in the centre of the opening.
Tie a length of copper wire to this nail.
Hammer the nail in until the head is flush with the slate.
Push the new slate into position.
Insert new copper disc rivet.
Tie the wire around the copper disc rivet.
Cut off the excessive wire.
Complete the replacement of the slate by bending the pin of the copper disc rivet over.

Fig 15 : Replacing a damaged Slate

REMOVING BROKEN SLATE FIXING WIRE TIED TO NAIL

INSERTING REPLACEMENT SLATE FASTENING REPLACEMENT SLATE

30 Slate Roofing 2012

 fixing accessories

Nutec Slate Fixing Accessories

Product Size / Description Diameter Sketch of Article

No. mm

605-011 Copper Disc Rivets 30 x 20

605-134 * * Copper Clout Nails 50 x 2,5

** All copper and galvanised clout nails have serrated shanks.

** Longer nails are used for hip and valley construction.

Slate Roofing 2012 31

e s t i m at i n g q u a n t i t i e s

Estimating Quantities

There are various simple methods for extracting quantities for slate roofs and one such method
is detailed below.

Information required to calculate quantities are:

Dimensions of flat roof area (overall wall dimensions plus eaves and gable overhang).
Roof pitch (either as detailed on the drawing or by measurement with a protractor).

Example
To calculate the flat roof area it is usually necessary to divide the roof into easy to calculate
rectangular sections, see Fig.16.

NB: The whole roof area, including eaves and gable overhang must be included.

In the example the roof is divided into four convenient areas.

Area 1: 40,0 m x 10,0 m = 400,0 m

Area 2: 10,0 m x 7,0 m = 70,0 m
Area 3: 3,0 m x 4,0 m = 12,0 m
Area 4: 10,0 m x 8,0 m = 80,0 m
Total flat roof area = 562,0 m2

The developed roof area is obtained by dividing the flat roof areas by the cosine of the roof angle.

In the example the flat roof area was calculated as 562 m2 and the roof pitch is given as 30º.

The cosine for 30º is 0,866. Refer to Table 2.

The developed roof area is therefore 563 m2 ÷ 0,866 = 648,961 m2

NB: This method applies equally to roofs with gable ends and hips as well as mono-pitch roof areas.
Where different roof pitches are encountered on the same roof, the flat roof areas have to be
calculated separately for each different roof pitch area.

To obtain the number of roofing slates and fixing accessories required, multiply the developed roof
area by the number of units per m. Refer Estimating Roofing Quantities.

NB: Allowance must be made for extras in the roofing slates and fixing accessories where
ridges and hips are involved, as well as for cutting wastes.
50 mm copper clout nails must be used at all exposed fixing points, e.g. ridges and hips.
These should be allowed for as per Table 3.
Copper nails should be used throughout in all corrosive areas.

32 Slate Roofing 2012

 e s t i m at i n g q u a n t i t i e s

Fig 16 : Extracting Quantities for Slate Roofs

10
00
0

10
0 00
0 0
4 00

1
3

00
70
30
00
00
40
4
10
00
0

10
00 00
0
80

Section area = m2

1 10,0 x 40,0 = 40,0 m2

2 7,0 x 10,0 = 70,0 m2 º
30
3 4,0 x 3,0 = 12,0 m 2

Eaves overhang
4 10,0 x 8,0 = 80,0 m2
Total = 562,0 m2 Overall wall dimention

Roof area 562,0 m Cos 30º (0,866) = 648,961 m

2 2

TABLE 2

Natural Cosines
Roof Pitch Cosine Roof Pitch Cosine Roof Pitch Cosine

16° 0,9613 31° 0,8572 46° 0,6947

17° 0,9563 32° 0,8480 47° 0,6820
18° 0.9563 33° 0,8387 48° 0,6691
19° 0,9455 34° 0,8290 49° 0,6561
20° 0,9397 35° 0,8192 50° 0,6428
21° 0,9336 36° 0,8090 51° 0,6293
22° 0,9272 37° 0,7986 52° 0,6157
23° 0,9205 38° 0,7880 53° 0,6018
24° 0,9135 39° 0,7771 54° 0,5878
25° 0,9063 40° 0,7660 55° 0,5736
26° 0,8988 41° 0,7547 56° 0,5592
27° 0,8910 42° 0,7431 57° 0,5446
28° 0,8829 43° 0,7314 58° 0,5299
29° 0,8746 44° 0,7193 59° 0,5150
30° 0,8660 45° 0,7071 60° 0,5000

Slate Roofing 2012 33

e s t i m at i n g q u a n t i t i e s

TABLE 3

Slate Fixing Accessories - Numbers Required

Application and Product Description Units Slate sizes 160 x 406

Roof area
Roof slates Number per m2 10
50mm galvanised/copper clout nails Number per m 2
20
Copper disc rivets Number per m2 10

Eaves Starter Slate

Roof slates Number per lin. m 2.5
50mm galvanised/copper clout nails Number per lin. m 5.0
Copper disc rivets Number per lin. m 2.5

Mitred ridge
Roof slates Number per lin. m 10
50mm copper clout nails Number per lin. m 20
Copper disc rivets Number per lin. m -

Boston ridges and hips

Roof slates Number per lin. m 10
50mm copper clout nails Number per lin. m 20

Valleys
Included in cutting wastes -

Cutting wastes
3%-5% of base quantity. To be calculated

34 Slate Roofing 2012

 e s t i m at i n g q u a n t i t i e s

Estimating Roofing Slate Quantities

The following guide can be used for estimating quantities of EVERITE Nutec roof slates and fixing
accessories required.

a) Calculating the flat roof area. Refer Fig. 16.

Area 1: m x m = m2 Area 2: m x m = m2
Area 3: m x m = m 2
Area 4: m x m = m2
Area 5: m x m = m 2
Area 6: m x m = m2
Total roof area : m2

Where textured slates (7 mm) are used, fixing accessories will differ slightly, ie: 40 mm galvanised
nail becomes 50 mm on main roof area, on hips and ridges 50 mm copper nail becomes 63 mm.

b) Calculating developed (actual) roof area.

Roof pitch ____________________ °
Cosine _______________________ Refer Table 2.
Flat roof area _________________ m2
÷ cosine of roof pitch __________ Developed roof area __________m2

c) Calculating material quantities.

1. Roof slates
Slate size to be used __________ mm x _________mm
Developed roof area ___________ m2
x Number of slates per m2 Number of slates: _____________

2. Extras required
Eaves lin. m __________________
x Number of slates per lin. m Number of slates: ______________
Ridges mitred lin. m ___________
x Number of slates per lin. m Number of slates: ______________
Boston type ridges and hips lin. m _________________
x Number of slates per lin. m Number of slates: ______________
Hips mitred lin. m _____________
x Number of slates per lin. m Number of slates: ______________
Cutting waste 3%-5% of base quantity
depending on the complexity of the roof ________%= Number of slates: ______________

d) Fixing accessories

1. 40mm galvanised/copper clout nails
Galvanised ___________________ per kg. Copper _______________ per kg.
NB: Copper clout nails are recommended for corrosive areas such as coastal areas.
Number of slates:______________
x 2 __________________________
÷ Number per kg ______________

2. Disc rivets – 1 per slate Each : ______________

3. 50mm copper clout nails

NB: To be used at all exposed fixing points – ridges and hips
Mitred ridge/hip lin. m__________
x Number per lin. m____________
÷ Number per kg Each : ______________
Boston ridge/hip lin. m _________
x Number per lin. m ____________
÷ Number per kg Each : ______________

Slate Roofing 2012 35

c o n ta c t d e ta i l s

Everite National Offices

Call Centre 0861 333 835
+ 27 11 439 4400
www.everite.co.za

Sales Support Office Middelburg (Mpumalanga)

Telephone + 27 11 439 4400 Mobile + 27 83 778 2787
Telefax + 27 11 903 7097
Polokwane
Bloemfontein Telephone + 27 15 297 3559/62
Mobile + 27 83 798 8049 Telefax + 27 15 297 3424
Telefax + 27 51 522 1760
Port Elizabeth
Cape Town Telephone + 27 41 401 8900
Telephone + 27 21 941 8640 Mobile + 27 83 780 6162
Telefax + 27 21 941 8641 Telefax + 27 41 486 1884

Durban Worcester
Telephone + 27 31 267 1903 Mobile + 27 83 286 3431
Telefax + 27 31 267 1907 Telefax + 27 23 342 6966

East London Botswana (Gaborone)

Mobile + 27 79 516 6510 Telephone + 27 11 439 4400
Telefax + 27 43 726 0343 Telefax + 27 11 903 8327

George Namibia
Telephone + 27 44 873 2408 Mobile (00264) 81 124 2655
Mobile + 27 83 286 3435 Telefax (00264) 64 40 5684
Telefax + 27 44 873 2409

36 Slate Roofing 2012