
Part of natural slate’s aesthetic appeal is in its characteristic variation in colour, size and texture. Natural slate has been used in British construction for centuries and is ideal for specification in both new builds or when re-roofing to match the traditional or
local character of the area. The benchmark in the UK - and possibly the world - has been set by the Welsh slate industry. However, restricted availability and
downward pressure on market prices has over the last 30 years led to the growth of imported slate. The markets’ desire for low priced slate combined with a lack of understanding of all the quality issues, product standards and convoluted supply chains, has led to some
problems on site and confusion for choosers and purchasers. Recent financial difficulties in the Welsh slate industry have probably done nothing to ease the concerns of those in need of a steady source of reliable natural slate. Such slate does, however, exist in eastern Canada where Cembrit Blunn source their Glendyne, Glacier and Trinity ranges. Being a relatively new source with an emphasis on the use of technology and attention to quality assurance, output is less variable than most other sources. Glendyne could well be the most approved slate currently available in Europe with certification to the relevant British Standard European Norm, French NF marque, Belgian STS standard and American ASTM standard.