How is slate fastened to the roof deck?
Most often with nails. We recommend #10 gauge smooth-shank copper nails for a normal installation. Normal meaning a nailable wooden deck. Copper nails are in keeping with a good slate roof’s longevity and the smooth shank is forgiving in those inevitable moments when you’ll be forced to pull a nail or use the ripper on one. There are other options, and sometimes engineering considerations such as a concrete deck dictate a different specification.