Slate is a high-end roofing material that is both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly long-lasting. In contrast to asphalt shingles, slate roofing has been employed on historical structures, private residences, and commercial buildings for centuries because it has a timeless appearance and holds its value better than other materials. Slate should be taken into account while choosing a roofing material if you are an architect, designer, or homeowner who is getting ready to build your own home. It is eco-friendly, organically sourced, and resistant to fire and insects.
What is a Slate Roof?
The primary components of a slate roof, which is a high-end roofing system, are natural slate tiles and other slate roofing materials.
One of the oldest roofing materials utilized as civilization spread around the globe is slate roofing shingles, which are dug from the soil. Fine clay is squeezed into shale and then eventually becomes slate as a result of the weight of the ground.
A piece of slate has layers created by the various compression phases, which enable it to be divided or sawed into varied thicknesses. It is often cut into huge slabs and sawn and quartered along the strata, or cleavage lines, until the necessary proportions are attained. The bigger pieces are utilized for floors, electric panels, blackboards, and counters.
Typically in Italy, slate is mined and then cut into square tiles. Slate tiles are laid one at a time, unlike other roofing materials that are installed in 3 foot wide strips or metal panels. This slows down the process of replacing your old roof with a new slate roof.
What you should know before buying a new slate roof
Knowing what a slate roof is now will help you prepare for purchasing a new one. You should consider the weight, cost, and other factors before selecting if slate is the best roofing
A slate roof must be able to support your home: Roofs made of slate are very heavy. As a result, your home must be constructed or framed to support the weight of the slate tiles.
Slate is one of the priciest roofing materials available: Slate roofs are among the most resilient and long-lasting roofing materials available. The downside is that it’s also one of the most expensive roofing materials. In reality, a slate roof will cost you at least four times as much as an asphalt roof. Slate roofing is generally not the best choice if cost is your main concern.
Select a slate roofer with experience installing roofs: Your investment in a slate roof depends on choosing a dependable roofing contractor. You shouldn’t have to worry about it again as long as your slate roof is installed and flashed properly.
Because of this, it is essential to your investment that you work with a local roofing contractor who has knowledge installing slate roofs. This is due to the fact that handling and installing slate tiles requires a highly skilled roofer or someone who has received the appropriate training.
There is no warranty on the material for slate roofing: Two warranties are included when you purchase a new roof. You will receive two warranties: one on the work of the contractor and one from the manufacturer of your roofing materials.
There is no manufacturer guarantee available for the roofing materials because slate tiles are organically produced. As a result, the sole guarantee you have for the workmanship of your slate roof contractor remains.
The Pros And Cons Of Slate Roofing
Slate roofs have advantages and disadvantages, just like any other roofing material. They will be discussed in this section.
Pros slate roof
A stunning roofing material is slate.
It is known for being applied to the most appreciated homes.
Slate has a built-in resistance to fire.
It resists being infested by insects.
One of the strongest roofing tiles on the market is this one.
A natural product, that is.
Because it can be recycled, it is environmentally friendly.
Cons slate roof
Heavy is slate. The roof of a new house needs to be designed to support the weight (up to 4 times as heavy as asphalt shingles).
Slate is fragile yet being sturdy. Damage may be caused by huge hail or other heavy items.
Since the same tools will be required to access the roof and complete the repairs, slate roofing specialists will be required to carry out the work.
Slate is difficult to walk on and is risky when wet.
Look to your trusted builder for advice, support and a quote to professionally and responsibly solve your problem. If you’re in the market for new roofing in Mount Lebanon PA, turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC. This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.
