Is Tapco Slate a Good Roof for a Timber Building?

Why Choose Tapco Slate for a Timber Building?

Tapco Slate gives you the appearance of natural slate while being lighter, easier to install and suitable for lower roof pitches.

At a Glance

• Looks similar to natural slate
• Lightweight and durable
• Available in a range of colours and profiles
• Suitable for roof pitches from 14°
• Backed by a 40-year warranty.

What roofing options are there for a timber building?

Timber buildings can be finished with a range of roof coverings, including Onduline, Onduvilla, clay tiles, natural slate, cedar shingles and Tapco Slate.

The right choice depends on your budget, the aesthetics you're looking for, local planning rules and the pitch of the roof.

Why do tiles suit a timber building?

Roof tiles are a popular choice for timber buildings because they create a traditional appearance that suits timber garages, carriage houses, garden studios and stables. Depending on the roofing material you choose, the roof pitch and structure may need to be designed differently.

What is Tapco slate?

Tapco Slate is an engineered roofing tile made from a blend of limestone and virgin resins.

How Does Tapco Slate Compare With Natural Slate?

Tapco Slate is moulded from natural slate to reproduce its texture and appearance, but it's significantly lighter than natural slate.

This makes it easier to handle and install while reducing the load on the roof structure.

For many timber buildings, Tapco Slate offers a practical alternative to natural slate.

*Always follow the manufacturer's installation guidance.

What Are the Benefits of Tapco Slate?

Lightweight

Tapco Slate is much lighter than natural slate, which reduces the load on the roof structure.

Suitable for Lower Roof Pitches

One of Tapco Slate's biggest advantages is that it can be installed on roof pitches as low as 14°, subject to the manufacturer's guidance. This gives you more flexibility when designing a timber building.

Durable

Tapco Slate is engineered to resist fading and delamination, helping it maintain its appearance over time. It is backed by a 40-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Faster to Install

Because the tiles are lightweight and easy to cut, they can often be installed more quickly than traditional slate. This can help reduce installation time while still achieving a high-quality finish.

A Choice of Styles and Colours

Tapco Slate is available in a range of colours and profiles, making it easy to complement both traditional and contemporary properties.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Tapco Roof?

Tapco Slate is designed for efficient installation. Combined with our off-site manufacturing process, it allows many Olson timber buildings to be completed in just a few days, depending on the size of the building.

Does Tapco Slate Need Much Maintenance?

Like any roof, it's worth checking it occasionally for leaves, moss and debris, particularly after storms or during autumn.

Tapco Slate doesn't require painting or staining and is designed to resist fading and delamination, so it maintains its appearance for many years.

Why Does Olson Offer Tapco Slate?

We've added Tapco Slate to our range because it gives customers a roofing option that combines a traditional appearance with practical benefits. It allows us to complete many buildings with a finished tiled roof while offering greater flexibility than natural slate on some projects.

Complete Your Timber Building With the Right Roof

The roof plays an important role in both the appearance and performance of a timber building. Whether you prefer Tapco Slate, natural slate, clay tiles or another roofing option, every Olson timber building can be tailored to suit your property and your requirements.

Design your own timber building, or get in touch with our team for advice on choosing the right roof for your project.