Slate Roof Installation in Lincolnshire & Cambridgeshire

As a family-run business with deep roots in the Spalding and Peterborough communities, our reputation is built on every single job we do. When you choose Foster and Son, you’re not just hiring a contractor; you’re partnering with a local, experienced team that genuinely cares about protecting your home.

A natural slate roof is a premium choice for many reasons. Firstly, its lifespan is incredible; a professionally installed slate roof can last for over a hundred years, making it a true lifetime investment for your home. Secondly, its natural beauty is timeless and adds significant character and value to any property, from a modern build to a period home. Finally, slate is extremely durable and resistant to fire, frost, and water.

Natural slate is quarried directly from the earth, split by hand, and shaped by experienced craftsmen. Each slate is unique, providing a rich, textured appearance. It's the most durable and traditional option. Man-made (or fibre cement) slates are manufactured from a mix of fibre and cement. They are lighter, more uniform in appearance, and generally more affordable. They provide a good quality, slate-like finish but do not have the same longevity or unique character as natural slate. Our experts can talk you through the pros and cons for your specific job.

The lifespan is one of the biggest selling points. A new roof installed with quality natural Welsh, Spanish, or Brazilian slate by an experienced company like ours can be expected to last well over 100 years. The slates themselves often outlast the building they are on. Man-made slates have a shorter but still respectable lifespan, typically around 30 to 60 years, depending on the quality of the product.

The time it takes to complete the work depends on the size and complexity of your roof. For an average semi-detached house, a full re-roofing job—including stripping the old roof, any timber work, and fitting the new slate—typically takes between one and two weeks. We will always provide a clear timeline with our quotation and do everything we can to minimise disruption to your home.

Most homes with a pitched roof can have a slate roof. However, the most important factor is the strength of the roof's structure. Natural slate is heavy, so the roof timbers (rafters) must be strong enough to support the weight. As part of our survey, our experienced roofers will thoroughly inspect your building's structure to confirm its suitability. If needed, we are fully qualified to carry out any strengthening work required.

Our process is thorough and professional. We start by erecting scaffolding for safety. Then, we strip the old roof covering and inspect the timbers, repairing or replacing any damaged sections. We install a new high-performance breathable membrane and treated timber battens. Finally, our skilled roofers will expertly lay your new slates, starting from the eaves and working up to the ridge, ensuring every slate is perfectly aligned and fixed to provide decades of excellent protection for your home.