A slate roof is one of the most beautiful and highly protective choices to cover your building. There’s no other roofing material that offers the same strength and elegance.
The Dynamics of Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is made of stone or sedimentary rocks composed of clay or volcanic ash. Since it’s derived from the earth, it’s already existed for centuries, becoming stronger with time. It’s no surprise that slate’s essentially the best of the best when it comes to dependable roof protection because it relentlessly withstands all kinds of elements without fail. Slate roofing is available in many variations. A couple of the most popular types are tiles and shingles.
What Are the Key Benefits of Slate Roofing?
Slate roofing is a premium system that stands out. Additionally, it’s a high-functioning protective covering that keeps inhabitants safe. Whether homeowners choose slate roof tiles or shingles, they’re making a wise decision that’ll offer a more significant return of investment than any other roofing material. Some of the main advantages of slate roofing include but are not limited to:
Longevity
Homeowners can depend on their slate roofing system to last for over 100 years. Some slate roofs’ life spans are even longer. Unlike traditional roofing systems, which experience rapid degradation due to different weather extremes, slate roofing is almost indestructible. It stands firm against harsh weather conditions, including:
- High winds
- Hailstorms
- Excessive rain
- Extreme heat
- Sleet
- Snow
Outdoor conditions are one thing, but other disasters could strike as well, such as fires. Slate is fire resistant and can protect homes against the spread of fire from airborne sparks, wildfires, or adjacent house fires.
Curb Appeal
Slate has a timeless, elegant appeal that many people admire. It’s arguably one of the first things that spark homeowners’ interest before learning about its other benefits. Plus, it’s pretty versatile. There are different types of slate and it’s available in many colors, shapes, and sizes. Best of all, it ages gracefully. Slate lasts for decades, and with the proper care and routine maintenance, it maintains its beauty as the years go by.
Environmentally Friendly
Slate roofing is a natural product, so it’s an eco-friendly option. Plus, unlike asphalt roofing and other roofing materials that add loads of waste to landfills each year, slate lasts for around a century. So, it has the lowest impact on the environment compared to several other roofing materials.
What Are Some Drawbacks to Slate Roofing?
Slate roofing is a dream come true for many homeowners, but it’s best to find out what’s best for your building and budget. Slate roofs have several pros, but you should familiarize yourself with the cons as well. Slate tiles or shingles may not be ideal for some homeowners because they are:
Expensive
The cost for slate roofing materials alone can range from $900 to $1,600 per roofing square. Installation costs can be anywhere from $11,000 to $24,000. On average, people spend at least $17,500 on labor. It’s a hefty price for a hefty roofing system, which some property owners gladly pay since it’s long-lasting and dependable.
Heavy
Slate, which is aged stone, is extremely heavy. Slate tiles can weigh around 800 to 1,500 pounds per square foot. Because of this, your building must pass a special inspection first to ensure it can bear the weight of a slate roofing system. Otherwise, it can overwhelm the property and cause severe structural damage.
Those who insist on slate roofing even though their home isn’t eligible for it may look into synthetic slate roofing. This lightweight option looks the same as real slate; however, it’s composed of rubber and plastic materials, so it’s not as solid and reliable.
No Material Warranty
Since real slate roofing is mainly made of natural rock, no material warranties are offered for this system. The roofing company may still provide a workmanship warranty, but that’s the only one available for slate roofing. It’s best to prioritize homeowners’ insurance that covers the roof and find out what kind of roof damage is and isn’t covered.
Luckily, slate is dependable, weather resistant, and fireproof, so these attributes should help you negotiate better rates. As long as your insurance is in good standing and your slate roof is in excellent condition, a material warranty can be the least of your concerns.
Hire Professional Roofing Contractors You Can Count On
Slate roofing requires a high level of skill and expertise. Hiring trustworthy roofing contractors to install your slate roofing system ensures the structure provides a lifetime of protection since professional installation contributes to longevity and proper functioning. Plus, when your roof is installed correctly to begin with, you can expect fewer repairs later down the road.
Kirberg’s Advanced Capabilities Are Trusted Across Missouri
Kirberg specializes in installing and maintaining many roofing materials, including slate and tile. We also know how to maintain a slate roof and perform slate tile roof repair. We realized how popular of an option this is, so we have sharpened our knowledge and skills for slate specifically. Slate requires close attention to detail, precision, and superior craftsmanship. For these reasons, our crew is the one to call for the job.
Whether your home is located in St. Louis, Springfield, or Kansas City, Missouri, we’re ready to serve you. No matter what type of roofing your residential property needs, we’ve got you covered. Our lineup of residential roofing options includes:
- Ceramic or clay tiles
- Asphalt shingles
- Wood shingles and shakes
Kirberg’s excited to be a part of your next roofing project. Whether you’re planning for your new home or you’d like renovations for your current home, we’re here to exceed your expectations. Call today to request a free estimate.
