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Fibre Cement Slates in South Africa: Get Free Quotes

Looking for fibre cement slates or slate-look roof tiles? Get free quotes from independent roofing suppliers in South Africa. No fee, no obligation. Ask today.

  • Quotes from: roofing suppliers
  • Area: all nine provinces
  • Cost to you: free
Grey fibre cement slates stacked on a flat bed trailer beside a newly battened townhouse roof in Durban
Grey fibre cement slates stacked on a flat bed trailer beside a newly battened townhouse roof in Durban

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Roofs, walls and steps: measure each face and add them up, or type the total in the form.

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Tell us what you need and where. A slate supplier, tiler, cladding installer or roofer who works in your area quotes you directly.

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Fibre cement slates give a slate-look roof that is lighter and usually simpler to lay than natural stone. SlateTiles.co.za is a free quote service. You fill in one form and we pass your request to independent roofing suppliers and installers in your area, who quote you directly. There is no fee and no obligation. We do not sell slates and we do not do any roofing work. Suppliers can also quote on composite slate roof tiles if you want to compare.

What fibre cement slates are

Fibre cement slates are thin roof tiles made from cement reinforced with fibres, pressed to look like natural slate. Several local ranges are sold, including products often searched for as Nutec slate roof tiles, and your supplier will explain what is in stock. Composite slate roof tiles, made from other materials, are a related option.

  • Lighter than natural slate, so lighter trusses may do.
  • Even size and thickness, which speeds up laying.
  • Available in grey and charcoal tones.

Some ranges have a smooth face and others a textured, slate-like face. Ask for samples and view them from the street distance, because fine surface detail disappears from afar.

Asbestos caution for older roofs

Older fibre-cement roofs from before asbestos was phased out may contain asbestos fibres. If your existing slate-look roof is old, do not drill, cut, sand, break or pressure-wash it. Have it assessed by a registered asbestos inspector.

Modern fibre cement slates sold today are asbestos-free, but ask your supplier to confirm this in writing. Removal of old asbestos-cement roofing must be done by a registered contractor under South African regulations. Never remove it yourself or let a general builder break it up.

Where fibre cement slates are used

They suit new houses, townhouse complexes and re-roofs where natural slate is too heavy or too costly to build. Some estates accept slate-look roofs in their design guidelines, while others require natural slate, so check with your HOA first.

  • Pitched roofs of moderate to steep slope.
  • Roofs that must look like slate from the street.
  • Re-roofs where the trusses cannot take natural slate.

Fibre cement slates are fixed with nails or clips on battens, following the maker's instructions. Pitch, head lap and fixing pattern all matter, so use a roofer who has laid them before.

What affects your quote

We do not give prices. Suppliers set their own, and your request should cover:

  • The roof area in m² and the pitch.
  • Product range, colour and edge profile.
  • Fixings, underlay and ridge pieces.
  • Supply only, or supply and install.
  • Delivery distance and offloading.

Ask each supplier to name the product, its thickness and its warranty terms, so the quotes can be compared on the same basis.

Comparing fibre cement slates quotes

Natural stone varies from batch to batch, and prices move with imports, stock and transport. When quotes arrive, check:

  • Exact product: the colour, finish, size and thickness, and whether it is calibrated, so every quote is for the same thing.
  • Quantities: the price per m², box, pallet or piece, and how much is allowed for cuts and breakage.
  • Stock and delivery: in stock or on order, delivery to site or collection, and any off-loading charge.
  • VAT and returns: whether VAT is included, how long the price holds and whether unopened boxes can go back.

What to include in your request

  • State the roof area in m² and the pitch.
  • Say whether you want fibre cement or composite.
  • Mention if you are replacing an old roof that may contain asbestos.
  • Name the colour you prefer.
  • Give your suburb and any HOA or estate rules.

Frequently asked questions

Are fibre cement slates the same as natural slate?
No. They are manufactured from cement and fibres to imitate slate. They are lighter, more uniform and easier to lay, but they do not have the cleft face or the lifespan of natural stone. Suppliers can show samples side by side.
Do fibre cement slates contain asbestos?
Old fibre-cement roofs may contain asbestos, so treat them with care and get an inspection before any work. Current ranges are made without it. Ask the supplier to confirm in writing, and use a registered contractor to remove any old asbestos-cement sheeting.
Can fibre cement slates go on any roof?
They need a suitable pitch, correct battens and the manufacturer's fixing method. They are lighter than natural slate, so many existing structures can carry them. A roofer should check the pitch and trusses before you order. HOA rules may also apply.
How do I get quotes for fibre cement slates?
Fill in the form on SlateTiles.co.za with your roof area, pitch and location. We pass the request to independent suppliers and roofers who send quotes directly to you. The service is free, and you are under no obligation to accept.

Fibre Cement Slates by province

Fibre Cement Slates by city and town

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