Slate Roof Repairs in Pittsburgh
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Slate Roof Repair in Pittsburgh
Preserving the Past. Protecting the Future.
A slate roof is more than a roof- it’s a piece of Pittsburgh history. At Prescott Roofing & Remodeling, we specialize in slate roof repair, restoration, and preservation for homes and buildings throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region. With over 119 years of hands-on experience, our team understands how to care for slate the right way- repairing damage without compromising the beauty or integrity of your roof. We use quarried natural slate and good reclaimed roofing slate, and always attempt to match replacement slates to the original materials as close as possible to ensure seamless repairs that honor your building’s history.
Whether you’ve got a few missing slates or need a full slate roof assessment, we’re the local experts homeowners trust to keep their slate roofs strong, reliable and stunning for generations.
Why Trust Your Slate Roof to Prescott Roofing?
We’re not new to this; Prescott Roofing has been repairing and maintaining slate roofs across Western Pennsylvania since 1906. From the Victorian homes of Shadyside and Squirrel Hill to the historic estates of Mt. Lebanon, Upper Saint Clair, and Fox Chapel, our teams have the tools, techniques, and experience for the craftsmanship and professionalism that the roofs of these homes require.
Here’s why Prescott Roofing stands apart from other roofing companies:
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Extensive knowledge of local architecture and slate types
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Skilled slate technicians and installers, not general roofers
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Safe, careful access to steep and challenging rooflines
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Custom flashing integration using various metal types (Copper, Heavy-Gauge Aluminum)
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No shortcuts- just reliable, long-lasting repair work that suits your home
Signs Your Slate Roof Needs Repair
Natural slate is one of the most durable roofing materials in the world, but even the strongest roofs need maintenance over time, especially with Pittsburgh’s extreme weather fluctuations- heavy rains, snows, winds, and the winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Look for these signs you may need your slate roof repaired:
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Missing or broken slates
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Loose or sliding slates
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Leaks during/after rains, wind events, melting snow.
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Flashing failure around chimneys, valleys, vent pipes, other flashing details or penetrations
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Water staining on interior ceilings and walls; water infiltrating the attic
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Sagging rooflines, dips/depressions/ lifted areas on roof
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Cracked or broken slates from impacts or breakage from foot traffic
Even a few broken or cracked slates can lead to water infiltration, wood rot, or structural damage if left unchecked. Carefully inspect your roof for these issues. Early intervention and repair keeps costs lower and extends the life of your roof.
Slate Repair Done the Right Way
When it comes to natural slate, repair quality matters. We never use tar, caulk, or sealants that will cause more damage later. Instead, we replace individual slates using traditional fastening methods (copper nails)- ensuring a permanent, professional fix. Proper nail techniques are always used, and replacement slate are secured with two nails after carefully removing the nails holding the old slate in place.
Our slate repair services include:
Carefully inspecting the roof for extensive damage or any issues with slate, flashing, etc.
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Detailed documentation (including pictures), and providing a written estimate for needed repairs.
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Sourcing slate in an attempt to match your existing roof, although exact matches are practically impossible considering roof age, rare/unusual colors, etc.
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Using the proper materials and essential tools (slate ripper/ slate hammer) for removing and replacing damaged roofing slates
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Precision cutting and custom fitting of slate where required
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Replacing copper or lead flashings as needed
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Sealing valleys, dormers, and penetrations as needed with appropriate materials
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Taking care to avoid breakage due to foot traffic by using proper techniques to access and work on the roof.
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Only experienced professionals should repair slate roofs to ensure proper installation and long-lasting results- Prescott Roofing offers experienced, top-quality slate roof repairs using techniques handed down across 5 generations.
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Full cleanup and photographic documentation of any repairs performed.
We treat every project with the care it deserves, because we know your roof isn’t just protection, it’s part of your home’s identity.
We Also Offer:
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Slate Roof Tune-Ups: Seasonal inspections and minor repairs
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Copper Gutter + Flashing Repair: Seamless integration with slate roofing
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Chimney + Masonry Coordination: No need to call multiple contractors
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Historic Preservation Services: Period-correct repair methods for landmark properties, using quarried natural slate and matching replacement slates to the original materials as close as possible
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Full Slate Roof Installations: When patchwork isn’t enough, we install a new slate roof , replacing extensive damage with new natural slate, and restoring the value of a natural slate roof
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Routine Maintenance & Slate Roof Maintenance: Regular inspections and routine maintenance to extend your roof’s life expectancy and prevent costly repairs
Pittsburgh’s Slate Roofing Specialists
From Squirrel Hill to Sewickley, Bethel Park to Fox Chapel, Prescott Roofing has worked to preserve hundreds of slate roofs across the region. If you own a slate roof, we understand how much you value it, and we’ll help you protect it with repairs that respect the original craftsmanship and extend its lifespan.
We work on:
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Historic homes and estates
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Churches and civic buildings
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Rowhouses and multi-unit properties
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Custom or hybrid roofs (slate + metal, slate + tile, etc.)
Why Homeowners Call Prescott Roofing First
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Over 119 years of Pittsburgh roofing expertise
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Slate roof repair is one of our core services, not an add-on
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Experienced, courteous, professional crews who treat your home with care
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Clear communication, fair estimates, and photo documentation of any issues noted or repaired
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Local, family-owned company that stands behind every job
The Value of Slate Roofs
Slate roofs are renowned for their durability, fire resistant properties, and long lifespan. The roof’s worth is determined by factors such as the quality of materials, regular replacement and repair, and proper maintenance. Hard natural slates offer unmatched longevity compared to other roofing materials, and routine care ensures your investment lasts for generations.
Comparing Slate to Other Roofing Materials
Natural slate are premium roofing materials with a long lifespan and fire resistant qualities, far surpassing the durability of asphalt shingles, aluminum, synthetic slate, and other roofing materials. While asphalt and aluminum offer cost-effective solutions, they do not match the classic appeal and longevity of real natural slate. Synthetic slate roof options provide a more affordable alternative with some durability benefits, but real slate remains the gold standard for historic and high-profile homes.
Understanding Slate Roof Costs
The high cost of natural slate is balanced by its long lifespan and fire resistant properties, making it a valuable investment. The total cost (material cost per square foot; square foot installed cost) are important factors that help determine the overall cost of the slate roof-as well as roof size, installation complexity, and materials. Costs for different roofing materials, including asphalt, aluminum, and other roofing materials, can vary widely, so it’s important to consider the full range of options and their respective benefits.
Professional Expertise Matters
Slate roof installation, repairs, and replacement require specialized skills. It’s essential to hire a roofing contractor or roofing contractors with experience in slate roofing. Homeowners should hire an experienced roofer or contractor to ensure proper installation, safety, and long-term performance of their slate roof. Prescott Roofing offers unmatched professional expertise when it comes to slate roofs
Schedule a Slate Roof Inspection Today
Don’t let a small issue turn into a costly problem. If you’ve noticed signs of wear or damage on your slate roof, call Prescott Roofing & Masonry today at 412-276-4242. We’ll give you an honest assessment, offer real solutions, and help you protect one of the most valuable parts of your home.
Preserve your home’s beauty and durability with expert slate roof repair from Prescott Roofing and Masonry.