Slate roofs are an elite choice of roofing material, and they can add a touch of class to a home that is hard to match with other material choices. Below are some of the reasons why you might consider adding a slate roof to your home, as well as a few considerations to keep in mind before installing one.

Advantages

There are numerous advantages realized by installing a slate roof, many of which provide long-term benefits for homeowners. Below are several of the most important reasons why a slate roof might be right for your home.

Long-Lasting

Slate roofs are among the longest lasting of all roof types. In fact, it isn't uncommon for slate roofs to hold up for a century or longer. In comparison, composition asphalt shingles need replacing about every 20 to 30 years, and metal roofs have a lifespan of approximately 50 years.

The long lifespan of slate roofs makes them ideal for homeowners who wish to maintain ownership of their homes for the long haul. Once a slate roof is in place, there is little chance a homeowner will ever need to be concerned again about roof replacement.

Natural Beauty

Another advantage of slate roofs is their natural beauty. Slate is a material that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, and it also offers a texture unavailable in other roofing material types. These distinctive features make slate unique and attractive to the eye and can add real value to a home as a result.

Resistant to Fire

Slate is a fire-proof material and can help homeowners protect their homes from airborne fire threats. Unlike wooden shingles, which can burn readily if exposed to fire, slate is classified as a Class A material for fire-resistance purposes. Other materials, especially metal roofing, are also fire-resistant, but it is difficult to surpass the superior ability of slate to thwart a potential fire.

Low Maintenance

Another advantage offered by slate roofs is their need for little maintenance on an ongoing basis. Slate doesn't permit water to pass through it, and it resists damage from hail, sleet, wind ,and other potential weather hazards that can severely damage other roof types.

In addition, slate roofs are also unaffected by microorganisms that might damage or mar the appearance of other roofing materials. For example, black algae can affect composition asphalt shingles and cause unattractive black streaking. Also, wood shingles are vulnerable to rotting and deterioration spurred on by moisture, while slate is not susceptible to this type of damage.

Disadvantages

As good as slate roofs are, they do possess a few disadvantages that should be considered before a homeowner has one installed. Below are some of the most important drawbacks to keep in mind.

More Expensive

Slate roofs cost more than other roof types to install due to higher material costs and special installation considerations. For example, slate roofs can easily cost triple or more when compared to composition shingles. However, it is important to keep in mind that many slate roofs will eventually pay for themselves due to their long lifespans.

Heavy

Another drawback of slate roofs is the weight burden they place upon some homes. Slate is the heaviest roofing material, and many homes aren't structurally strong enough to support a slate roof. That means that houses should be carefully evaluated to determine if they are capable of holding a slate roof without additional strengthening.

If you are interested in learning more about slate roofs, be sure to contact a qualified roofing professional at a company like Click Lock Roofing. Slate roof installation is a demanding process, and that's why you should contact an expert who understands the special nature of slate.