St Leonards Slate Roof Replacement Using Canadian Glendyne Slate

A full slate roof replacement in Sydney’s Lower North Shore, preserving character while ensuring long-term performance.

Some homes on Sydney’s Lower North Shore wear their age beautifully. Like all buildings, eventually the roof will need replacing. This St Leonards home had a slate roof more than 100 years old. And while the original craftsmanship had lasted well, time and weather had finally taken their toll.

Why the Roof Needed Replacing

This was not a minor patch-up. The existing roof had reached the end of its life. The slate tiles were worn, the ridges and valleys were failing, and underlying materials no longer met today’s performance or compliance standards.

After inspecting the full roof system, we recommended a complete re-roof, removing all materials back to the rafters so we could start with a clean slate (literally) and rebuild the roof using modern best practices while keeping its period style intact.

Material Choices: Durable Slate with a Traditional Finish

For this project, we used Canadian Glendyne slate, one of the most consistent and reliable roofing slates available today. It’s a great choice for Sydney’s climate, with excellent durability and a clean, classic appearance that complements older homes.

We finished the roof with terracotta ridge caps, a popular ridge detail often found on Federation and Edwardian-era homes in Sydney. These caps not only preserve the visual style of the original roof but also help tie the new roof into the character of the home.

Extra Upgrades for Long-Term Protection

A re-roof is also a chance to upgrade the entire roof system, not just the tiles. We installed:

• New Colorbond valleys for stronger, more reliable drainage
• Upgraded gutter brackets to support the new load
• Leaf guards to keep debris out of the gutters
• Box gutter replacements to reduce overflow risks
• Chimney pot capping to finish the look and protect the flue

Each of these details was chosen to enhance the roof’s performance, especially in heavy rain or storms, which are common across the Lower North Shore.

Project Timeline and Outcome

This re-roof took approximately 6 weeks, including scaffolding, safety compliance, demolition, installation, and finishing. The property remained occupied throughout the work, so we carefully staged each part of the project to minimise noise, dust, and disruption.

We also captured before-and-after drone footage, which shows the full transformation — from an aged, patchworked roof to a refined, weatherproof finish that will last another 100 years.

Thinking About Re-Roofing Your Slate Roof?

If your home on the Lower North Shore, has an old slate roof showing signs of wear, it might be time to consider a re-roof. Whether you need a full strip and rebuild or just want an expert opinion, we’re here to help.
We look after heritage roofing on The Lower North Shore including

• Cremorne
• Mosman
• Neutral Bay
• Northbridge

Get in touch for a free quote or inspection.
You’ll speak directly with the team who’ll be doing the work.

Slate Roofing FAQS

How long does a slate roof last in the Lower North Shore climate?

With proper maintenance, a slate roof can last well over 100 years. The slate itself is incredibly durable, and in Sydney’s Lower North Shore climate, it’s ideal due to its resistance to salt air, wind, and seasonal weather changes.

Do I need council approval to repair or replace a slate roof on a heritage home?

Yes, if your home is in a heritage conservation area or heritage-listed, you may need council approval. Any slate roof work must follow heritage guidelines, particularly around materials, colour, and method of installation.

Can you match new slate to existing slate on older homes?

Yes, we regularly use reclaimed slate or source new slate that closely matches the colour, texture, and size of the original. This ensures seamless repairs that retain the roof’s character and meet heritage standards.

What are the signs my slate roof needs repair or replacement?

Look for missing or slipping tiles, visible water stains inside the home, pieces of slate in the gutters, or signs of sagging. Any of these could mean your roof is compromised and needs inspection.

Why is lead flashing important on a slate roof?

Lead flashing protects the vulnerable joins on your roof, especially around chimneys, valleys, and skylights. It’s long-lasting, flexible, and essential for preventing leaks. Without good flashing, even perfect slate work will eventually fail.

Is slate roof cleaning safe and necessary?

Yes. Cleaning removes moss and lichen that can trap moisture and accelerate tile decay. It also gives us the chance to inspect your roof for hidden damage. Cleaning should be done every few years using non-abrasive, roof-safe methods.