FACE NAILS ON SLATE ROOFS - NOT A GOOD PRACTICE!

Face nails in slate roofs have been used since the inception of roofs of stone. In Europe, slate roofs have been tied to purlins, blindly fastened without nails. This old technique can teach modern roofers something about keeping their fasteners out of the way of the weather.

	Face Nails always result in failure.
On virtually all slate roofs, some face nails have been used. We say "virtually all slate roofs" because slate roofs or sectional replacements installed by FSI Restorations have zero face nails. We feel that face nails and screws are wrong. The clamor from industry tradesmen not privy to our proprietary methods will, no doubt, be one of disbelief. Slaters often terminate their roofs with face fasteners. The issue of face nails will often be skirted even though every slate roofer knows face nails are wrong. You can't caulk them or "goop" them and expect a permanent solution. You sure can't solder them but many roofers have tried. Face nails always prove to be the weak link in slate roofing. Face nails leak! Face nails cause roof failure! Ask us about how we can terminate at Flashings, Ridge Roll, etc. without the use of damaging face nails. If you want it right - Call FSI Restorations!
Before


Professional Slaters do not use face nails! Look at the difference a little care and attention to detail can afford:

Hand-Picked Reclaimed Vermont Purples, Sea Greens & Green Slates adorn this dormer face.