North Country’s lightweight system is 100% natural slate and up to 40% lighter than traditional slate roofing, weighing less than 6 lbs./square foot. By comparison, some architectural shingles weigh 4.5 lbs./sf, and the typical 1/2-inch plywood roof deck, grade A-C, on 2x6 rafters spaced 16-inch OC can support an estimated 35 lbs./sf, making the lightweight slate option viable for most structures. In addition, the lightweight slate system eliminates the need for added hooks, battens or rails that other lightweight systems require.

The system is comprised of two critical components, slate shingles and a patented interlayment. The shingles are 1/4- to 3/8-inch thick, 12- to 14-inches long and installed with only a 4-inch overlap vs. the comparable 10.5- to 13.5-inch overlap of a traditional slate roof. The 21-inch wide interlayment is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and installed between each course of slate, as a weather and UV barrier and reduces the quantity of slate required. As a result, the system offers savings in terms of overall roof weight, installation labor, and shipping costs, while providing the aesthetic beauty of a traditional slate roof. In addition, the system has been fully tested for real-world performance and meets or exceeds FM 4473 for Class 3 Hail Impact, UL 790 Class A Fire Resistance, as well as the Miami-Dade County test standard for 110 MPH Wind/Rain protection.

Lightweight slate roofs are available with the North Country Slate’s complete range of natural shingles, including the company’s popular Unfading Black. All North Country Slate colors meet or exceed the ASTM C406 S1 standard, the highest quality slate available in North America. In addition, various colors, widths, and thicknesses can be blended to create a customized natural slate roof, that has a life expectancy of 75 years with minimal maintenance.