A Commitment to Quality: The Cupa Guarantee

Natural slate's strength, insolubility and imperviousness make it one of the most durable and versatile materials, but naturally occurring differences in composition and appearance mean selection and quality control are crucial. Several national and international standards and accreditations govern the quality and origination of slate, so it is vital that, when a particular slate is specified, it meets or exceeds these in order to ensure the quality and longevity of the structure it will form part of.

Owning its own quarries has enabled Cupa to invest in the most comprehensive and professional standards and infrastructure. And the stability offered by its position as the world-leading supplier of natural roofing slate has resulted in a dedicated workforce whose attention to quality and service is matchless.

Cupa has implemented a quality control procedure that is certified by IQNET with its ISO 9001:2000 standard, and spans the entire production process; from geological studies and analysis prior to opening up a deposit through to traditional hand cutting, drilling and gauging, classification and preparation for shipping. Cupa has also invested in its own quality control laboratories where controls and tests are carried out in accordance with the highest quality norms.

In addition to its compliance with British and European standards, including BSEN 12326-2:2000 and the EC European Union quality stamp, Cupa slate has been awarded the NF mark. The French Norm (NF) set out to toughen the requirements established by the CE mark. It is based on the same strict testing criteria but the required results are even more demanding. It is not a compulsory requirement but being awarded the NF mark means the highest standards in quality have been achieved.

Cupa offers its customers a product that has gone through the most stringent quality control checks and is backed by Cupa's unique traceability technology. But the company is not resting on its laurels. Cupa has an ongoing quality improvement system, which is based on feedback given by its customer satisfaction surveys, to ensure that it continues to offer a superior product and service. As a demonstration of Cupa’s confidence in its product and commitment to customer service, a lifetime guarantee is offered on all slate, to customers in the UK and Ireland. For Cupa’s Heavy 3 slate, this guarantee is extended to 100 years.