Slate is a strong and durable material that has been used for centuries to cover the roofs of buildings. It’s also beautiful, with various colors and patterns possible. Slate roofs have a very long lifespan, sometimes lasting for hundreds of years. While they were once prevalent in older homes and buildings, they’re also commonly used today in new construction because of their durability and beauty. So, with all those benefits, what are some pros and cons of slate roofing?
Pros of Slate Roofs
Slate is a natural material, which means it offers the look and feel of natural stone. Slate is also available in various colors and patterns, so you can choose one that best matches your home’s style or personality.
Slates also have an extremely long lifespan; some can last hundreds of years! This longevity means you won’t need to worry about replacing them any time soon (if ever). You’ll spend less money over time than if you had chosen another type of roofing material like asphalt shingles, which only last 20-30 years.
Another advantage of slate roofing is that it is an environmentally friendly roofing option. While asphalt shingles require the use of fossil fuels during manufacturing, the slate is mined and recyclable, which mitigates its environmental impact. Disposal of the slate after its usefulness as a roofing material is complete and has no adverse effect on the environment since it is a naturally occurring material.
In addition to lasting longer and being more energy efficient than other types of roofing materials (which can save you money over time), slate provides benefits like:
Increased storm resistance – The density of a slate roof makes it very resistant to storm damage caused by high winds or hail; this means that your home will be safer during bad weather events.
Durability – Slates are made from mineral stone compressed over thousands of years into strong blocks with interlocking edges that hold together well under pressure. They’re also naturally anti-corrosive, so they won’t rust out like metal roofs might do.
Historic Roofing Material – Slate has been used on many New England homes throughout the years and is favored by historical commissions for its classic look.
Cons of Slate Roofing
Slate is more expensive than asphalt shingles, but the most important thing to remember when comparing slate roofs is that you get what you pay for. Slate is more expensive than asphalt shingles because the installation process is much more sophisticated.
Although slate is highly durable, contractors must pay special attention when working with slate roofing, requiring a qualified expert. Walking across or putting heavy equipment on these tiles may cause them to crack. This is why solar panels and other equipment are usually not installed on slate roofs.
Likewise, homeowners with slate need to have all repairs done by qualified professionals. They know how best to handle these surfaces without breaking them or causing other damage. When installation or repairs are poorly done, you can have falling pieces from above due to improper installation procedures being used by inexperienced workers. So, it’s vital to hire contractors who have access to proper training programs explicitly designed to help contractors learn how to install slates onto existing structures properly.
Misconceptions of Slate Roofs
Slate roofs are durable and long-lasting, but they may need regular maintenance. For example, most homeowners with slate roofs have spare tiles in storage in case they need to replace one or two. There are myths surrounding slate roofing that need to be dispelled.
One of the biggest misconceptions about slate roofs is that they add too much weight to your roof. Slate is a solid material and has been used as a roofing material for centuries. The weight of the slate tiles is less than the weight of clay tiles, one of the most common types of tile used for roofing today. An experienced contractor can answer any questions you have about your roof and the weight of the slate.
Misconception of Slate Roofs: It Cracks Easily
Another misconception is that slate cracks easily. Slate roofs are durable and long-lasting but require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Using premium quality slate and hiring a professional for repairs or replacement definitely matters when it comes to slate.
Misconception of Slate Roofs: They Can’t be Repaired
You can repair slate roofs. Many people think that when a slate roof gets damaged, it must be replaced. However, this isn’t true at all! Most of O’LYN’s work involves repairing or replacing only a handful of slate tiles! However, slate is a type of rock that is cut and shaped into tiles, so repairing it requires someone with the proper tools and experience.
Contact The Slate Professionals
O’LYN is a professional slate roofing contractor who can install a new roof or repair your home’s slate tiles. This could include replacing damaged or broken pieces with new ones, repairing cracks between tiles, and re-sealing seams between two pieces previously joined with mortar but have come apart over time.
Overall, slate is a beautiful option for any residential roof. Not only does it look fantastic, but it also possesses incredible longevity. While you will undoubtedly need to make a significant investment to install a slate roof on your home, it will outlast just about any other roofing material you can install and has the potential to be a cheaper long-term investment. If you’re looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance option, then contact O’LYN Roofing today!
