Roofing Material: Slate creates a fire-resistant roof that lasts
It withstands weather and fire without losing its luxurious appearance. But can your budget afford
it?
After a long, cold winter and a damp spring, you probably knew it was time to put a new roof on
your home. Chances are, once you’ve taken the time to do this, you’ll never want to do it again.
You don’t have to do that if you choose a very durable material like slate.
This premium material is expensive but long-lasting. In fact, slate has been the preferred roofing
choice for homeowners for hundreds of years. Any material that stands the test of time like this is
one that should be on your radar.
To see if a slate roof can work for your home, learn the basics and costs here.
The Basics
Real slate is a metamorphic rock most often found in quarries in Buffalo City. As a roofing
material, no other product can match its durability, luxurious appearance and fire resistance. Slate
quarried for roofing is a dense, sound rock that is very hard and solid.
Cost
Most slate roofs are expensive, ranging from $20 to $50 per square foot installed. This figure is at
least five times higher than that of conventional roofing materials. However, slate roofs can last
over 150 years, at least five times longer than conventional roofs.
Pros
Slate is available in a variety of sizes, natural colors and thicknesses, allowing for architectural
customization. Some homeowners choose to create patterns with slate roof tiles by mixing the slate
with other earthy colors. The color of a particular slate is related to the quarry it comes from. The
hue ranges from dark gray to green to purple.
Slate roofs are built to withstand the worst of weather, making them an excellent roofing choice in
all parts of the United States, even those that experience varying weather patterns. Hurricane-force
tornadoes and large flying debris are both known to damage high-quality slate roofs.
Slate is also a refractory material. Wood decking installed under slate is obviously not fireproof,
but fires affecting entire neighborhoods are constantly carried from roof to roof, and houses with
slate roofs are generally unaffected.
Cons
The high cost of slate roofing tends to be its biggest drawback. Common failures found on slate
roofs are usually caused by amateur installation or poor-quality slate. When hiring a slate roofing
contractor, ask about his/her experience and customer and material references. A slate roof that
will last 150 years or more is only possible with quality slate and installation materials, careful
design, and correct installation.
The quality slate you choose for your project should be sourced from a company that prides itself
on products with a well-known track record of performance.
Maintenance
Slate is highly resistant to temperature fluctuations and is generally not affected by mold or
mildew. However, slate roofs can shed a tile or two periodically. Homeowners should get into the
habit of visually inspecting their slate roofs at least once a year. Cracked, broken, lose or missing
tiles must be replaced immediately. Once again, slate roof repairs are expensive. This is because
slate is an expensive material and may have few skilled installers.
Sustainability
Slate often outlasts the building itself and can be recycled. Many slate roofs today are constructed
with reclaimed slate. Besides the recycling benefits, reclaimed slate is often less expensive than
new slate.
The longevity of slate roofs is an environmental benefit, especially since slate adds as little to
construction and demolition debris as conventional roofs do. Also, slate is a 100% natural material.
Call 585 632 7663 to schedule an appointment at https://kdroofers.com with our local roofing
experts, KDRoofers.
Choosing KDRoofers is a decision you can feel good about. We believe in timeliness
and put our customers first. This is how we believe we should do business. Contact us https://kdroofers.com as soon as possible to schedule an appointment or receive a free
consultation on your outdoor lighting needs.
Are you a fan of slate roofs? Let’s discuss! Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
https://kdroofers.com
Nitharsana
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published.
