Slate Roofing

What is the Durability of Slate Roofing?

Since slate roofing tiles are natural stone they are extremely durable. They have stood the test of time for hundreds of years. Slate roofs are weather-proven as well. Slate roofing material varies in thickness but has been shown to withstand up to 4″ hailstones and high winds.

How Sustainable is Natural Slate Roofing?

Although slate roofing tiles are quarried or mined, they actually are eco-friendly compared to many other roof coverings like tile roofing or metal roofs. They are more eco-friendly because they require very little processing that puts out CO2 emissions. Additionally, slate roofing is very long-lasting. Slate roofs will need to be repaired more often than be replaced due to the failure of the components, not the slate itself.

What is the Cost of a Slate Roof?

The cost of a slate roof varies greatly based on the origin of the material, the thickness, and the cut and shape of the tiles. Additionally, other factors that can increase the price are, the steepness of the roof, if it is greater than one story height, and the complexity of the roof design. All of these factors can greatly increase the price of the roof.

For an average-sized home that is one story and not steep, you can expect to pay anywhere between $900 and $2400 per square or 100 square feet. While material costs vary greatly, labor costs can too. Installing a tile roof requires exceptional skill and knowledge, much greater than the basic shingle roof.

To be perfectly frank, if your contractor is the cheapest labor, you might just be choosing the wrong crew. Consequently, the most expensive contractor doesn’t guarantee a better end product. If on a budget, it is far better to choose a cheaper material than the cheapest labor. The best material is only as good as how it is installed.