Weather Resistance
Slate roofs are resistant to temperature fluctuations. Meaning they are great for climates that experience heavy rain or snow. They are also resistant to high wind speeds. The heavyweight of the slate roof and the layering keeps wind from getting underneath the slate tiles.
Mold/Insect
Slate roofs are also resistant to mold, fungus, and insects. Slate has a high density so it does not absorb very much water and it does not provide any food for a fungus to grow.
Home Value
A slate roof will increase the value of your home. It also makes your home more appealing to potential buyers if you ever decided to sell your home.
What is the lifespan of slate roofing?
Slate is essentially a rock, a homogeneous metamorphic rock that is derived from an original shale-type sedimentary rock composed of clay or volcanic ash through low-grade regional metamorphism. Therefore, this roofing material is millions of years old. Slate is incredibly durable and can last several hundred years, often with little to no maintenance. It is safe to say that you will get at least 75 to 100 years or more out of your slate roof. However, it’s important that you do not put anything on your slate roof such as sealant or paint because this can cause the roof to age prematurely.
“Slate is something we like to call a ‘forever roof’ since homeowners will only need to put only one on in their lifetime, but a shingle roof may need to be replaced two or three times.”
What are the benefits of slate versus shingle roofing?
Slate is something we like to call a ‘forever roof’ since homeowners will only need to put only one on in their lifetime, but a shingle roof may need to be replaced two or three times. Another benefit of slate roofing is its ability to increase the resale value of your home due to its natural beauty and durability. Slate is recognized as an elegant roofing material and will enhance the architectural style of your home and maintain the same appearance over the years. Other benefits of slate roofing include its natural ability to be fire resistant and mold resistant and slate’s low water absorption makes it very resistant to frost damage and breakage due to freezing.
What should you do to prepare your roof for slate?
Slate is an extremely heavy product and can add an additional 500 pounds to your roof. If your home is not engineered for slate you will need to have a structural engineer inspect your roof. This will ensure that your roof prepared to hold the weight of the slate roofing.
What is the price difference of slate versus shingle roofing?
Slate is an expensive product and you can count on it being two or three times more expensive than a standard architectural shingle roof. The price can range from 15 to 16 dollars a square foot installed. The price of a slate roof will also vary depending on the size of the home and the roof pitch.
Can you repair a slate roof?
You can repair your slate roof at any time. It is important to have a licensed roofing contractor examine your slate roof to find the damaged pieces, and the repair is as simple as sliding out the damaged slate and replacing it with a new piece. Having a professional inspect your roof once a year will also help you keep your slate in the best condition possible.