Graduated Slate Roofing
Large-format graduated coursing—20", 18" and 16" random—sorted, thickness-graded and labelled by course so the roof reads the way the architect drew it.
What graduated means
On a graduated roof the largest, thickest slate sits at the eave and the courses diminish in length, width and thickness as they climb to the ridge. It is the oldest way to lay a slate roof and still the most convincing on historic and estate work: the roof gains visible depth and the shadow line changes as the sun moves.
How we prepare a graduated order
Thickness graded
Pallets are separated by thickness band so the eave courses are genuinely heavier than the ridge courses.
Length sorted
20", 18" and 16" random sorted into separate crates and labelled by intended course range.
Course schedule
We supply a written coursing schedule matched to your roof area and exposure.
Overage allowed
Graduated work needs more culling on site; we build 15% into the quote by default.
Where it belongs
Graduated slate suits steep-slope roofs with long uninterrupted planes: Tudor and Jacobean revivals, Shingle Style houses, chapels, lodges and estate outbuildings. It is not a good fit for low-slope or heavily dormered roofs where the courses never get room to diminish.
Not sure what you need? We’ll walk you through it.
Whether it’s a specific match or a custom project, we’re happy to help.
