Slate roofs are considered the gold standard of roofing because of the many benefits they offer homeowners. Slate roofs are so reliable that homebuyers are willing to pay top dollar for a home with natural slate roofs. They are made from stones derived from metamorphosed sedimentary rocks composed of clay or volcanic ash. Here are the benefits of slate roofs to a homeowner.
1. Slate Roofs Will Last Past the Century Mark
When you install slate roofs, you can expect a service life of at least 100 years. With expert installation and regular maintenance, you will be looking at more than 150 years of service. If slate roofs seem like they last forever, it’s because they do. Seeing that they’re cut from natural stone extracted from the earth, they have already existed for millions of years. This also makes them durable and almost indestructible. With slate roofs, you will not need constant roof repairs. Some homeowners may never repair their slate roofs in their lifetimes. However, minor repairs may be necessary because of storm damage or when heavier objects such as trees falling on your roof.
2. Slate Roofs are Stunningly Attractive
Appearance is probably the hallmark of slate roofing. Slate roofs are stylish and ooze class and opulence. In some exclusive suburbs, most homes are built using slate roofs. Luckily, there are many roofing styles, sizes, colors, textures, patterns, and shapes that a homeowner can select from. A roofing contractor with a penchant for design will install an impressive slate roof that will blow your mind. You will find slate roofing tiles in many colors such as red, black, purple, green, and gray, and some mottled tiles that have a mix of colors. When you have all these options for your roof, you only need to find an experienced roofing contractor to get the job done excellently.
3. Slate Roofs Withstand the Elements
Slate is naturally mold resistant, fire-resistant, and has a low water absorption capacity. Because slate tiles are heavy, they are not easily blown off by strong winds. Water, strong winds, and fire are the common causes of roof damage and cost homeowners a fortune in roof repair and maintenance costs. On average, roof water damages costs homeowners about $2,386 to fix, while removing standing water on roofs costs roughly $2,688. For wind damages, homeowners pay $5,757, while fire and smoke damage cost $4,172. You say goodbye to these vexing costs when you install slate roofs.
4. Slate Roofs Are Eco-friendly
Other types of roofs such as asphalt shingles will need to be replaced after some years when they wear out. Typically, after a new roof is installed, the old roof is sent to the dumpsite because neither the homeowner nor the roofing company has any use for it. Keep in mind that most other roofing materials are made from non-biodegradable materials such as fiberglass. These materials are harmful to the environment. On the other hand, slate roofs are made from natural stone. Add that to the fact that slate roofs may last more than 100 years. When the slate roofs are finally replaced, they will not have any negative effects on the environment.
5. Slate Roofing Boosts the Value of Your House
A house with a slate roofing will attract more homebuyers. If you decide to sell your house, it will fetch a higher market value than a similar house without a slate roof. Given that slate tiles are heavy, a house with a slate roofing is considered structurally strong and well-built. This adds to the desirability of a home that has a well-maintained slate roofing.
The only reason why slate roofs are not on all American homes is the installation cost. You will have to dig a little bit deeper into your pockets to install a slate roof, but the return on your investment will be worth it. You will have a unique, attractive, durable, and secure roof with little to zero maintenance costs. For expert installation, you should trust the professional roofing contractors.
