One popular roofing material is slate. Slate tiles are beautiful and can give your home a unique and regal appearance. However, they aren't the right option for everyone. If you are interested in getting slate shingle metal roofing, check out these three facts you should consider:
Slate Roofs Are Durable
Slate is a stone, making it extremely durable. One reason it's more durable than asphalt and metal is that in the heat and cold, slate doesn't expand and contract. With asphalt and metal, the changes in temperature, cause minor fluctuations in size, which increase wear and tear. Another way slate has asphalt tiles (and wood shingles) beat is because slate isn't susceptible to moisture. If you live in a rainy, moist environment, it's common to see rot and decay on wood and asphalt shingle roofs. On the downside, however, slate tiles are weak to being walked on, so it's best to only allow professionals on your slate roof.
Slate Roofs Last a Long Time
This durability doesn't just mean you'll need fewer repairs, it means your slate roof is going to last a long time. In fact, with proper care, a slate roof can last up to 200 years or more. Asphalt shingle roofs only last about 20 years. This is incredibly important because slate tiles aren't cheap. They cost between $9 and $40 per square foot. Asphalt may be incredibly cheaper, but it will also have to be replaced more often. With the right care and great installation, your slate shingle roof may last the rest of yours or even your home's lifetime.
There Are Alternatives
Unfortunately, slate tiles aren't the best option for everyone. For starters, they are expensive, but there may also be additional costs. Because slate is so heavy, your home needs strong support to uphold the roof. Therefore, you may have to pay to have additional support features built into your home. Another option is to consider some slate alternatives. One alternative is a rubber option. The rubber tiles look almost exactly like slate but cost and weigh less. However, they also don't last as long as slate. Another option is to consider metal shingles that can be crafted to look like slate. Again, this means less money and weight but less durability.
If you are interested in a slate tile roof, you should know the advantages and the possible alternatives if you can't afford a slate roof. For more information regarding roofs, contact a roofer in your area today.
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