Usually found in Brazil, China, Spain and Australia, slate is a metamorphic rock and a popular roofing option. This material is naturally water-resistant and absorbs less than 0.4% of the water that falls on it. Besides the stone quarried from mines, lighter and environmentally friendlier alternatives to this roofing material are available, such as artificial slate. These products resemble the appearance and appeal of slate, and also possess the same durability.
A trusted home renovations expert shares tips to help you determine if slate roofing is right for your home.
What Are the Benefits of Slate Roofing?
Extreme Durability
Slate is a stone that has been around for millions of years, and it is one of the most durable roofing options available today. When maintained properly, it can even outlast the structure where it was installed. This natural material does not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other types of harmful chemicals during the manufacturing process, and it’s also recyclable.
Natural Resistance Against the Elements
Slate will not burn, unlike other roofing materials, making it ideal for areas prone to wildfires. Since it does not absorb water easily, it withstands mold growth and damage due to freezing. Another perk you can enjoy from this material when you choose it for your roof replacement project is lower homeowner’s insurance costs.
Undeniable Beauty
Installing slate roofing will add a touch of elegance to your home. This option is great for people who wish to increase the curb appeal of their house or who are considering selling their property in the future. Slate is available in a wide range of colors, styles, patterns and textures. It comes in various thicknesses and shapes like square, hexagonal, rectangular, bullnose and half-moon. There are sleeker designs ideal for modern homes and rough surfaces for those who prefer something more rustic.
Long Lifespan
One of the best features of slate roofing is its longevity. When installed correctly and maintained regularly, it can last for up to a century or more. It means it lasts at least five times longer than many popular residential roofing materials. Slate roofs may come with a century warranty.
Because slate roofs last long, it means that they are more cost-effective in the long run. They are also better for the environment because they do not require frequent repairs or replacement. To ensure your slate roof lasts longer, make sure to hire a reliable roofing contractor for its installation, repairs and maintenance. At Ben’s Construction Inc, we only install high-quality slate, asphalt, metal and wood shingle roofing.
Ease of Maintenance
Because slate is a highly durable material, it does not require constant maintenance and repairs, saving you upkeep costs. With this roofing option, you won’t need to worry about organic growths, such as mold and fungus. However, you can only enjoy this benefit if your roof was installed correctly by professionals.
Things to Know Before Getting a Slate Roof
You’ll Need to Know From Where It Will Come
There are more factors you need to consider when investing in a slate roof besides color, price or the manufacturer. One of the most important things you should know about your slate roof is where it came from or the actual quarry from where it was extracted. It is because some quarries have better reputations than others.
Some also offer longer and more comprehensive warranties. As much as possible, go for warranty coverage that lasts for at least 75 years. It should include a clause that the manufacturer would be obligated to pay for your roof’s replacement if it develops pyrite stains or unsightly rust-colored marks. For a list of reputable manufacturers and quarries, you can check the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America, Inc. website. If you have an old slate roof, you can ask your roofing contractor if they can recycle or reinstall it.
Understand What Sidelap and Headlap Are
Slates should overlap each other properly to ensure water effectively sheds from the roof. Experienced professionals would mark the felt lines with chalk to make sure there is enough overlap. The material should overlap by at least three inches on the sides, which is the sidelap. The overlap at the top of each slate is called a headlap. It is even more essential in keeping water out of your home. You will need three inches of headlap if you have a steep roof or a pitch of at least 8:12. For shallow roofs or ones with a pitch between 4:12 and 8:12, the slate should have a headlap of four inches or higher. If your roof is shallower than 4:12, slate is not an ideal material for you.
The Metal Components Your Roofer Chooses Matter
The kind of metals your contractor chooses matters. Roofers typically use copper and stainless steel for slate roofs. Your contractor should be consistent with the metal they use for nails, rivets and flashing to avoid galvanic corrosion. When incompatible metals touch each other, they will eventually start to rust. It can also occur in the drip edges, gutters and downspouts.
When it comes to nails, copper, stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized steel are great options since they are more likely to last as long as your slate roof. Meanwhile, avoid galvanized nails because they tend to rust a few years after installation.
Work With an Experienced Contractor for Your Project
Careful installation is a must when it comes to slate roofing. Skilled roofers know how to walk on slate safely to avoid cracks on the stone. The installation should also involve as little foot traffic as possible. Your contractor should utilize roof brackets or roof jacks, which are similar to small scaffolds. Before the actual construction begins, you should ask what kind of equipment and tools they will use. Expect experienced professionals to use hammers, slate cutters, hooks and rippers.
For quality slate roof installation services, turn to Ben’s Construction Inc. Our team also specializes in siding and gutter installation. Call us at (508) 962-2417, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.