ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses roof coverings for both pitched and flat roofs. It considers traditional roof coverings as well as those that are used in modern roofs, together with roof drainage details such as parapet and valley gutters. The chapter considers the principles of laying slates and tiles. It then reviews the construction of pitched roof coverings. The chapter also provides details of coverings for flat and shallow pitched roofs. All work to construct any new pitched or flat roof and for the recovering or repair of an existing roof needs to comply with the Building Regulations. Slate is a rock that was laid down in a series of thin beds. Slate is virtually impermeable and is highly resistant to chemical attack. Handmade plain clay tiles have been used in Britain since the Middle Ages, but they lost popularity as the use of slating spread during the early 19th century.
