Metamorphic rocks are a fascinating class of rocks that have undergone significant changes due to heat, pressure, and chemical reactions over time. These changes result in the transformation of the rock’s texture, mineralogy, and structure. Metamorphic rocks can form from any pre-existing rock type, including sedimentary, igneous, or other metamorphic rocks. In this article, we will delve into the characteristics and formation of metamorphic rocks.

One of the defining characteristics of metamorphic rocks is their distinct banding or foliation. This banding or foliation is caused by the alignment of minerals due to pressure and recrystallization. Metamorphic rocks can also have a range of textures, from fine-grained to coarse-grained, depending on the intensity of the metamorphic process. The mineralogy of metamorphic rocks varies greatly, but common minerals found in them include quartz, feldspar, mica, and garnet.

Metamorphic rocks can form through different processes. The most common process is regional metamorphism, which occurs when rocks are buried and subjected to high temperatures and pressures over a large area, usually due to tectonic activity. This process can result in the formation of rocks such as slate, schist, and gneiss. Contact metamorphism, on the other hand, occurs when rocks come into contact with magma or hot fluids. This process results in the formation of rocks such as hornfels and marble. Finally, dynamic metamorphism occurs when rocks are subjected to intense pressure and shearing forces, resulting in the formation of rocks such as mylonite.

Metamorphic rocks have several uses in various industries. Marble, a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized calcite, is commonly used in construction, sculpture, and decorative purposes. Slate, another metamorphic rock, is used as a roofing material, flooring, and for making blackboards. Gneiss, a high-grade metamorphic rock, is used as a building stone, decorative stone, and for landscaping purposes.

Delivery Status April 22nd: Unaffected

Supply

On March 17th, numerous quarries in Spain stopped production, and staff have, rightly so, self-isolated to help stop the spread of Covid-19. This, naturally, has had an effect on production and therefore supply within the UK.

Buy Roof Slate Ltd are in a fortunate position due to our stockpiling and wholesale strategy. By purchasing slate in bulk, we get the best rates available. This means we usually have over 1 million slate in stock.

During this difficult time for the nation, we will be reducing prices on specific slates to help support homeowners and small businesses across the UK. At present (April 8th), we have 1,045,245 slates in stock.

Logistics

As a family-run business, we are dedicated to ensuring our team is safe and secure during this precarious time. In the event of a lockdown, we will be answering phone calls and responding to enquiries from home. Our setup allows us to offer an unparalleled service from anywhere in the world. However, over the coming weeks, we may be presented with delivery difficulties. Our typical method is via the Palletways network, a network of nationwide independent distributors. In the event of a lockdown, our customers may be facing waiting times up to 2 weeks for delivery. This may change over the course of the next few weeks, depending on how GOV chooses to tackle the virus. If you have any questions regarding a delivery, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Donations

We are donating £50 for every order over £1,000 (net). By doing so, we are supporting the lifeline that has, and continues to, support us during this pandemic. At present, we are splitting donations 50/50. 50% goes to the NET, a collective of charities which directly supports the families affected by Covid19. The remaining 50% goes to “NHS Charities Together”. This charity directly supports the NHS.

Summary

Our customers, past and present, are treasured individuals and businesses. We all have families and friends, and as a community, we must all work as a team to ensure we come out of the other side of this together. Look after each other, be kind to each other, and please reach out to us if we can help you in any way.

Best wishes,
Ethan, Jamie and Paul.

How much does roofing slate cost?

This really depends on the quality of the slate and the size of the slate. There are a number of factors which can affect price, which we have addressed below.

1. Quality – When the rock is extracted from the mountain and taken to a splitting shed, the slates will be cut, split and divided into their final selection. Basically put, once the rock has been split into a row of 500×250 slates, the best of the slates will be taken out first. These are called a “First selection”. They are also known as “prime”, “ultra” and “primera”. This simply means they are the most consistent out of all slates produced. What’s left is usually classified as a “second selection”. These can also be known as a “standard”, “heritage” or “eco”. These slates are usually very consistent in overall quality, but may differ in thickness and have minor aesthetic imperfections. This usually leads to additional labour costs as the sorting process is longer.

Side note: Not all rocks are the same. Some quarries produce a fantastic first selection AND second selection, there may be very subtle differences in the first and second selections that differentiate them, so it’s always worth asking about the standard grade slates. This could save you potentially thousands on your roof. At the same time, some rocks produce a terrible first selection and second selection slate, so it’s always best to get a sample prior to ordering, or having a lengthy conversation with your supplier (hopefully us!).

2. Size – This doesn’t require a lengthy explanation. The bigger a slate, the more rock that’s used, the more expensive the end product. Pretty simple.

Other notes worth taking into account when calculating how much roof slate costs, and why it costs that much:

1. Pyrite content – We’ve discussed pyrite in another article on the website. Pyrite is a form of iron which can be found in roofing slate. We recommend reading the aforementioned article. It will help you understand pyrite and dispel any myths you may have heard. In summary: unstable pyrite will rust and discolour your roof. Stable pyrite will remain unchanged for years and years to come. The key thing to keep an eye out for is the “A1-S1-T1” certification. A1-S1-T2 slates are cheaper, and that’s because the pyrite is unstable.
2. Twisted slates – You may have seen them before, they’re awful to look at. A twisted slate is usually down to negligent surveyors checking the rock prior to extraction. A good slate should be flat with minimal curvature. If a slate is too twisted, it won’t lay and will have a knock on effect to the rest of the roof, as the slates laying above it will kick up – nasty business. Twisted slates are usually cheaper.

Summary

How much does roof slate cost?

Roof slate can vary in price due to the aforementioned factors, however, as a general rule of thumb, you can buy a quality slate for £0.97 + VAT.

Take note: When buying from Buy Roof Slate Ltd, you are paying the absolute lowest prices in the industry from a trusted, reliable seller. Our range of slates is extensive, and our knowledge is just as great. If you need any assistance, or if you have any questions regarding slate, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01296 658 396.