Slate Roof Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slate?
Slate is metamorphic rock which is among the earliest industrialized and best roofing materials ever employed. Despite some very clever man-made alternatives, slate remains without equal as the hardest, most durable, and intrinsically handsome material available.
What are the benefits of slate roofs?
- Lasts 60 to 125 years or longer (some have lasted over 200 years)
- Requires little maintenance
- Naturally occurring material, making them environmentally friendly
- Beautiful, classy appearance and available in many colors
- Fire resistant and not subjected to sparks from fireworks or wildfires
How much does a slate roof weigh?
A slate roof weighs between 800 and 1,500 pounds per square (100 square feet). You should have your home evaluated from a structural standpoint before you install slate roofing tile to make sure it can take the weight.
How much does a slate roof cost?
Slate is generally higher in cost initially, however because it last so much longer, it is very cost-effective over the long run.
Repair or Replace?
Whenever possible, it is better to repair a slate roof rather than replace it. Many slate roofs are mistakenly replaced when they could be repaired, however each roof should be judged individually based on condition.
How many historic slate roofs have Innovative Construction & Roofing repaired or replaced?
ICR has repaired or replaced over 200 slate roofs, and our detailed analysis and reporting maximizes your chances of claim approval.
Can you match a historic home look?
We can install any color pattern, size or style to match your historic look.
For more information on choosing slate roofing, visit our Slate Roof Page.
