It’s hard to match the historic charm and style of a slate roof. It’s one reason slate has so many hardcore fans and devotees. However, as homeowners with slate roofs know all too well, natural stone means plenty of upkeep and expensive maintenance. Top roofing contractors around the country are switching to synthetic slate. It’s an excellent choice when replacing an aging stone roof and adds a classic, elegant vibe to new construction, offering the look of natural slate at a fraction of the cost.
What Are The Pros and Cons Of Natural Slate Roofing?
Slate has a fan following with good reason: it’s attractive and durable and has been a staple on historic buildings for centuries. Slate tiles made from volcanic rock have been roofing material for over 700 years. However, it has significant downsides. It’s heavy and can be challenging to install. It’s also one of the most expensive roofing materials. Installing natural slate has a higher price tag because it takes longer and requires expert installers with special skills at a higher pay rate. Because natural slate is so heavy, homeowners usually need to upgrade the entire structure of their roof, says Steve Gotschi, owner of DryHome Roofing and Siding. “With synthetic slate, clients get the look of slate without the extra work or cost.”
What Are The Advantages of Synthetic Slate?
Synthetic slate tiles are made of rubber or plastic and are designed to look like natural stone. Manufacturers mold high-tech polymers to look like slate in both texture and color, recreating the charm and beauty of a beloved material. Synthetic slate has several advantages that make it a material of choice for top roofing contractors.
- It’s lighter than natural slate, around a quarter of the weight of real stone.
- It’s easier to install with standard roofing nails and nail guns, reducing installation costs and time.
- It’s less expensive, with lower materials and installation costs. Synthetic slate costs around one-third the price of stone tiles. It’s slightly more expensive than traditional shingles but offers a unique look.
- It’s one of the most durable roofing materials with top-notch manufacturer warranties, high-level impact resistance during storms and fire-resistant materials.
- It’s often made with recycled materials, offering sustainability to environmentally conscious homeowners.
How Do I Know If My Slate Roof Needs Replacing?
Natural slate is a durable material that can last for decades. However, once it starts to degrade, it often becomes cost-prohibitive to repair. When it’s time to replace a slate roof, many consumers replace aging stone with synthetic tiles. Signs your slate roof needs replacing include:
Failing nails and sliding slate create uneven rows.
Natural slate is susceptible to breaking and flaking. After years of surviving the elements, it can wear down, becoming thin, porous and susceptible to leaks.
Rising maintenance costs take a toll. As your slate roof ages, you’ll spend more on repairs to flaking, breaking and sliding tiles. If you’re spending thousands a year on maintenance, it may be time to consider a 21st-century synthetic replacement.
Should I Replace My Roof With Synthetic Slate?
A slate roof is one of our favorite looks. The great news is that you can achieve that unique, classic look at a fraction of the cost. At DryHome Roofing and Siding, we’re synthetic slate fans for all the reasons mentioned above. It’s the best way to achieve the timeless aesthetics of natural slate while saving money and protecting your home from the elements. It’s truly the best of both worlds and an excellent choice.
