When installing natural slate roofing, the method you choose to fix the slates in place can significantly impact the roof’s performance, appearance, and longevity. Nail fixing and hook fixing are the two most common methods, each offering specific advantages depending on the type of roofing project.
Whether you’re a first-time renovator repairing a property or an experienced roofer looking for the best fixing accessories, understanding the pros and cons of both approaches is essential. In this blog, we’ll break down how each fixing works, where it’s most suitable, and how to choose the right method for your roof, with expert advice from UK Slate, your trusted supplier of premium slate roofing products and accessories.
What is Nail Fixing?
Nail fixing is the traditional method used to attach natural slates to a roof. Historically with wooden pegs, but nowadays using copper or stainless-steel nails, slates are usually nailed through two pre-drilled holes near the top of the slate.
Benefits of Nail Fixing:
- Proven Durability: This method has been used for centuries and is ideal for long-term slate performance.
- Secure Fit: Nail-fixed slates can withstand severe weather as each slate is held down by 2 nails. This security can be increased further at verge with annular ring shank nails.
- Heritage Appearance: Nail fixing offers a clean, classic finish that suits traditional and listed buildings where no visible fixings are desired.
Considerations:
- Time-Intensive: Each slate needs to be individually nailed, which can increase installation time and labour costs.
- Challenging repairs: Replacing a damaged slate can be more difficult, as removing nails without disturbing surrounding slates is tricky.
- Not Ideal for Shallow Pitches: Nail fixing works best on roofs with a steeper pitch as the tail end of the slate is not fixed down and could be affected by wind uplift.
What is Hook Fixing?
Hook fixing uses stainless-steel slate hooks to secure each tile along the lower edge. This method is common in parts of Europe and is growing in popularity across the UK due to its flexibility and ease of installation.
Benefits of Hook Fixing:
- Faster Installation: Only 1 hook is required to fix each slate, as opposed to 2 nails.
- Improved Weather Resistance: It is often considered suitable for shallow-pitched roofs or exposed locations, as the slate is secured down by the exposed end of the slate.
- Easy Maintenance: Individual slates can be removed and replaced without disturbing surrounding tiles.
Considerations:
- Visible Fixings: Hooks are visible along the lower edge of each slate, which may not be suitable for certain architectural styles or conservation requirements. We can supply different coloured hooks to match different slate though, please contact us for more details.
- Requires Different Sizes: Hooks are supplied in fixed sizes depending on the head lap required. One size does not suit all applications.
Which Fixing Method is Right for Your Roof?
The right fixing method depends on a variety of factors, including the materials being joined, personal preferences, budget, and aesthetics.
Use Nail Fixing When:
- You’re working on a listed building or conservation area.
- You want a traditional, seamless slate appearance.
- The roof has a steeper pitch.
Use Hook Fixing When:
- You need a faster and more cost-effective installation.
- Your roof has a low pitch or in a high exposure area – coastal and other windy locations.
- Ease of maintenance and future repairs is important.
- The visual appearance of the hook is not a concern.
If you’re still unsure, our team at UK Slate is here to provide you with advice and recommendations tailored to your roof’s specific needs.