What to do if My Slate Roof has a Leak or a Broken Tile?

“Call a slate roofing specialist. These roofs require specific tools, materials and experience to fix properly—without causing further damage or visible patchwork.”

Why Not Every Roofer Is Right for Slate

If you’ve noticed a cracked slate tile or water getting into your ceiling after rain, the first instinct is to get someone up there fast. But not all roofers know how to handle slate.
It’s not just another roofing material. Slate is heavy, brittle, and easy to damage if handled the wrong way.

A general roofer might be great with metal or terracotta, but slate tiles demand a master slater. This is a trade who has gone through an apprenticeship in slate roofing.
They are trained to use the right tools, match replacement slates correctly, and avoid disturbing the surrounding tiles.
One wrong move can lead to bigger problems than the leak you started with.

What a Slate Roof Specialist Will Do

A skilled slate roofer will do more than just patch up the damage.

• Inspect the entire area for signs of cracked or slipping tiles
• Use a slate ripper to carefully remove broken tiles without disturbing the good ones
• Install a matching replacement, often using reclaimed slate for a seamless fit
• Check surrounding tiles, flashings, and underlay to make sure the roof is watertight

If your roof has more than one broken tile, or if it hasn’t been checked in years, this might also be the right time to consider a slate roof restoration.
This process involves your entire roof being cleaned and inspected. It is a great way to ensure that all tiles are clean, positioned properly and any signs of damage are spotted early.

Reclaimed Slate Can Save the Look—and the Budget

Not every broken tile needs a brand-new replacement. One of the best ways to keep the roof looking original is by using reclaimed slate. These tiles have already weathered over time, so they match the colour, texture and size of the existing ones better than new tiles ever could.

It’s also a practical option. Reclaimed slate is usually more affordable than premium new tiles, and it helps keep your home’s character intact—especially in Sydney’s older suburbs where council and heritage guidelines may apply.

A Leak Could Be the Start of a Longer-Term Fix

What starts as a single cracked tile can sometimes be a sign of ageing nails, worn flashings or other issues waiting to happen. That’s why many homeowners take the opportunity to book a roof cleaning and restoration service while fixing the immediate issue.

This includes:

• Cleaning lichen, moss and leaf debris
• Checking for slipped or cracked tiles
• Repointing ridge lines and repairing flashing
• Replacing only the tiles that need it
• Preserving the overall look and weather protection of the roof

Think of it as a tune-up. It keeps your slate roof healthy and helps you avoid bigger repairs down the track.

Need Help With a Leak or Loose Tile?

We’ve been working with slate for over 30 years, across homes in Paddington, Balmain, Bellevue Hill and beyond. Whether you’ve spotted water damage or found broken slate pieces in the garden, we’ll inspect it, explain your options, and fix the issue with the right materials and know-how.

You’ll deal directly with us—the people who will be on your roof doing the work.
No guesswork. No quick fixes. Just the proper way to care for a slate roof.

Slate Roof Leak