Slate, like any other roofing material, can be damaged under the influence of external factors. Fallen large tree branches and strong hail are especially dangerous for him. Water gets inside through the formed cracks and holes. In the case when it is impossible to completely replace the roofing material, you can use a special waterproof repair tape. This technique is simple and completely reliable.
For work you will need: a tape that does not allow water to pass through, a hair dryer, a metal brush, scissors and gloves. First you need to provide access to electricity. An extension cord is suitable for this, through which the mounting hairdryer will be connected. Do not forget about caution.
The slate can be easily split along its length, and this problem will have to be solved in a cardinal way - by replacing the entire sheet. Ideally, you should lay the board down and move on it. The edges of the slate and its corners also do not need to be stepped on, otherwise they will break.
The damage itself should be prepared for repair. The site is cleaned of moss that has been growing over the years. This is where a metal brush comes in handy. Usually the site is cleaned a little more than necessary, that is, not strictly along the width of the tape flap. If the tape is thin (0.3-0.5 millimeters), you can additionally polish the relief with sandpaper. In this case, the tape will firmly adhere to the surface and will not allow water to penetrate inside. If the tape is thick and with soft rubber, then these manipulations are not necessary. It will fit perfectly anyway.
A wet slate surface requires preliminary drying until it becomes light.
Cut off the desired piece from the repair tape, remove the protective film from it and glue the holes on top.
Without fail, the tape is smoothed and pressed tightly with a roller, although it is quite possible to do with the palm. To attach it more reliably, you should first heat the area with a hairdryer, and then press down again with a gloved hand.
Basically that's all. The patches begin to perform their function instantly. The downpour, which began immediately after the repair work, is no longer terrible. Experts recommend using in such cases a tape with a width of 100 millimeters. It will close the hole and remain in place, even if ice comes off the roof in the spring.
Continuing the topic, read advice on how to get rid of rust on metal at home.