Why Important
What to look for
This West Highland slate is thick and has poor cleavage (splitting) which leads to a characteristic uneven surface texture.
Unfortunately, West Highland Blue slates have not been quarried since the 1950’s so matching-in can be difficult. However, a good slater is likely to have a source of second-hand slates for patching.
When to look
How to fix
Please note that where the Edinburgh style slates are used, the slates are single-nailed at the head and double-lapped, which means that the nail-hole is protected by two further layers of slate.
It is easy to re-fix a slipped slate by swinging the adjacent slates aside.
Avoiding creating problems
Do not mix slate materials, as it leads to failures and thus water leaks, and building damage.
Historical background
As transport improved in the 19th Century, distinctive West Highland blue slate came to be used as it was in Edinburgh.