These days, homeowners have a variety of choices when it comes to materials for their roof. But despite the assortment, slate has remained one of the most popular choices. Learn the pros and cons of slate roofing to determine if a slate roof is right for your Columbus roofing system Calgary roofing.
Wood, metal, sod, plastic, concrete, clay. These days, homeowners can choose from an overwhelming amount of materials for their Columbus roofing system. But despite the plethora of materials, slate has remained one of the most sought-after and popular choices. So how do you determine if a slate roof is right for you and your Columbus roofing system?
What’s so great about slate?
Slate roofing tile is a natural stone product. Therefore, it is only fitting to remember its positive qualities using the nature-inspired acronym L.E.A.F.: longevity, environmentally friendly, appearance, and fire resistance.
First, slate roofing tile is noted for its longevity. It can be built to last 100-150 years, if the roof is properly installed. Other Columbus roofing materials need to be replaced every 20-30 years. Second, slate roofing tile is extremely environmentally friendly. Its century-long lifespan results in a drastic reduction of roofing waste being sent to landfills.
Next, slate roofing tile results in a beautiful appearance for your Columbus roofing system. Its natural quality gives your home a striking look, and it is available in various sizes and thicknesses. Additionally, it comes in a wide array of colors, including purple, gray, black, green, red and mottled tiles that incorporate several colors mixed together. A final positive quality of slate roofing tile is its fire resistance quality. Unlike many other roofing materials, slate tiles themselves are completely fireproof, and they can help prevent fires caused by adjacent house fires, wildfires and air borne sparks from fireworks.
So when assessing the positive qualities of slate roofing tile for your Columbus roofing system, keep L.E.A.F. in mind.
That sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?
While there are many positive qualities of slate roofing tile, there are also some negatives. First, a myriad of Columbus roofing contractors are not well educated about slate roofs, but will try to install it anyway. Be sure to do your research and inquire about experience and references before hiring a contractor to work on your Columbus roofing system. Remember, a properly installed slate roof is invaluable, but a poorly installed one is a nightmare.
Columbus roofing contractors must also exert extra caution when walking on a slate tile roof because the tiles are very fragile, which is an additional negative for some homeowners. Its fragility can make it difficult for a non-professional to walk on without causing damage, which complicates tasks such as rooftop maintenance, painting, and gutter cleaning.
A third drawback to slate tile roofing is its weight, which is estimated to be between 800 and 1,500 pounds per 100-square-feet. As a result, your home will need to be evaluated from a structural standpoint to ensure it can handle the weight. Sometimes expensive extra support is required.
The final and biggest con of slate tile roofing is its cost. Each square installed can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000, which is significantly more than conventional materials. However, considering slate roofing tile lasts five times longer (when installed correctly) than other materials, you may decide that it is well worth the investment for your Columbus roofing system.