Slate Roof Pros and Cons

Whether you’re building a new house or looking to revamp your current house, one of the most important considerations is your roof. Deciding on the material of your roof is a massive consideration especially when it comes to affordability and aesthetics. Whilst there are so many different materials to choose from, some materials are considered to be better than others as they stand out considerably from the rest. One of the most popular roofing materials that continue to grow in desirability is slate roofing. This post will explore the slate roof pros and cons to help you decide on installing the perfect roof for your home or building.

What is a Slate Roof?

A slate roof is a type of roof made from natural slate.

The tiles themselves have been cut into shapes that resemble traditional roof tiles, but with a more modern, natural, rock-like look.

They can be used to create a variety of designs and styles such as pitched roofs, flat roofs, gable roofs, and mansard roofs. Even the types of slate roofs can vary.

They are also often used in conjunction with other types of roofing materials such as shingle roofing.

Now that we know what it is and why it’s trending, let’s look at the slate roof pros and cons.

Slate Roof Pros

Slate is a unique and widely valued material due to its luxury and delicate aesthetic, lightweight, and durability. Some of the core benefits of slate roofing include:

Lightweight

Slates are also very lightweight which makes them easy to install and transport. They are also much easier to handle than other roofing materials such as tiles and asphalt shingles.

Longevity

The longevity of slate roofs is unmatched by any other roofing material available today. The reason for this is because it’s made up of natural minerals which means it can last for hundreds if not thousands of years.

Durability

Not only does slate have an incredible lifespan but it also has exceptional resistance to wear and tear. It can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail storms, snowstorms, strong winds, and even fire. Slate has long been considered a durable and long-lasting roofing solution. It has been used for centuries and remains strong and sturdy after all these years.

Aesthetics

Slate roofs offer a luxurious look and feel that no other roofing option can match. The beauty of slate roofs lies in their natural appearance. From the way, it looks to how it feels underfoot, slate offers something special and distinctive that makes it stand out amongst all other roofing materials. Slate produces a unique and distinct sheen that makes for an elegant and eye-catching spectacle. Slate roofing looks fantastic and adds value to your property. Not only do they look great but they also add character to your home.

Eco-friendly

Slate roofs are eco-friendly. Unlike other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, slates are naturally formed and don’t require any form of the manufacturing process. This means that they are completely free from harmful chemicals and toxins. They’re also derived from natural, sustainable resources and are recyclable, making them a great choice for an eco-friendly roof.

Slate Roof Cons

Although the pros of slate roofing far outweigh the cons, there are still some drawbacks that need to be considered before choosing this roofing material. These include:

Maintenance

Slate roofs require maintenance to keep them looking their best. This includes regular cleaning, sealing, and repointing. In addition, the slate requires regular re-roofing every 20 years or so.

Cost

As with any roofing material, the cost of slate roofing is dependent upon the size of the project. Though slate as a roofing material is considerably affordable compared to other materials, the additional cost to consider is its installation. It’s important to ensure that your slate roof is installed by professionals who know what they are doing to get the most out of your investment.

Slate can get pricey when it comes to roofing materials and cost. Slate roofs are a little more expensive compared to other roofing options. They come in a wide variety of styles, designs, and colors making them ideal for both commercial and residential applications.

Installation

Slate roofs are notoriously difficult to install. Installing a slate roof is more complicated than installing other types of roofing. The installation process involves cutting and fitting pieces together to create the desired shape. This is time-consuming and often requires specialist knowledge. Not only do they require skilled labor but they also require specialist equipment to ensure that they are installed correctly. Because of this, it’s imperative to hire professional roofers to carry out the job. If you don’t then you may find yourself with a leaky roof that could lead to water damage and costly repairs.

Weight

In accumulation, slate roofs are very heavy which can put a considerable strain on the structure of a home. In order to support the roof, a building may require additional reinforcement.

Fragility

Though durable, slate slabs are considerably fragile and hence should be handled with care on installation.

Things to Consider with Slate Roofs

Now that you’ve measured the slate roof pros and cons, there are a few other things that might influence your purchasing decision when it comes to the type of roof.

Lifespan

The lifespan of slate roofs depends on several factors including the type of slate used and the quality of workmanship. When properly maintained, slate roofs can last up to 100 years. However, if not cared for and maintained regularly, slate roofs will begin to deteriorate at around 30 years.

Cost

Depending on the size of the roof and the type of slate used, slate roofs can vary greatly in price. For the most part, they’re on the high end of the spectrum, but the value is present, decade over decade.

Final Considerations

Slate is a great choice of roofing both for its durability and distinct and luxurious aesthetic. If you’re considering having a slate roof installed, it’s essential you enlist trusted and reliable professionals for optimal installation and performance.

B&M Roofing is a leading roofing service provider that offers everything from installation, repair, maintenance, and construction. They pride themselves on providing exceptional service. If you’re looking to upgrade the roof of your home or commercial building, B&M Roofing can help.