Other roof issues

Stone flags were mainly used in the Pennines, and lighter stone tiles in the Cotswolds and other areas in England and Wales. Flags tended to be laid on pitches of 30 degrees, and tiles at 50 degrees or more. Tiles were held on oak pegs or animal bone.

Because of the weight of the stone, overlap was kept to a minimum. To prevent driven rain entering the roof, torching (clay, lime mortar and hair) was placed on the underside.

Stone roofs are prone to leaks at their joints. However, many have had underfelts or lead flashings added to reduce such problems. As timbers age or decay, the roof structure can begin to spread.