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Our Guide to Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is no longer as popular as asphalt roofing for residential projects. However, it used to be the top option for high-end roofs because it offered the best weather-resistance, longevity, and visual appeal. Although slate roofing isn’t commonly seen installed in Lakewood homes, these benefits still hold true. Slate roofing is a remarkably durable and long-lasting roofing material that can be a great choice for homeowners with high budgets. 

Of course, slate roofing is by no means a perfect roofing material. Like any material, slate has its drawbacks. By learning more about slate roofing and the pros and cons that it offers, you can make the right choice for your Lakewood roof replacement. 

What is Slate Roofing?

To begin, let’s clarify what slate roofing is. Slate roofing comes from metamorphic rocks. These rocks are built from sedimentary rock composed of clay and volcanic ash. Since slate is a naturally-occurring roofing material, as opposed to asphalt roofing, which is manmade, it can vary in color depending on its mineral composition. 

For example, slate tiles that come from chlorite will appear green. Those that come from hematite will be purple. The classic gray and black slate roof tiles, which you’re probably the most accustomed to seeing, come from carbon. 

Pros of Slate Roofing

There are many upsides to choosing slate roofing for your Lakewood roof installation. These include: 

Longevity

The main benefit of slate roofing that makes it stand apart from other roofing materials is its longevity. If it’s installed properly, a slate roof can last between 40 and 150 years, depending on the climate, weather conditions, and the quality of the slate. So, when you have a slate roof installed for your Lakewood home, you can feel confident that it won’t require replacement any time soon (or even within your lifetime!). Considering that most other residential roofing materials used today last for between 15 and 30 years, slate is the superior option for those seeking excellent longevity. 

Looks

Slate also provides the benefit of a sleek, high-end appearance. With natural beauty and a striking, unique appearance, slate roofing will upgrade the exterior of your home. Plus, as we mentioned above, slate comes in different colors, so you can select the best shade to fit your aesthetic preferences. Ultimately, a slate roof will provide excellent curb appeal for any Lakewood home. 

Eco-Friendly

Slate roofing is gentle on the environment because of its long lifespan. Since slate will long outlast other roofing materials, it can reduce the materials that end up in landfills. Additionally, repurposed slate roofing is available, allowing homeowners to take an extra step in reducing the amount of waste from used roofing materials. 

Fire Resistance

Slate roofing is incredibly fire-resistant. In fact, slate tiles are fully fireproof. Especially considering the dry climate here in Lakewood and throughout Colorado, slate can boost your home’s overall fire resistance for safety in the case of a fire. 

Minimal Maintenance

Since slate is remarkably durable and long-lasting, it requires less maintenance than other roofing materials. You won’t have to worry as much about wear and tear with slate tiles, and a slate roof is more likely to withstand weather conditions without incurring damage. Slate also has a very high density, so it won’t absorb much water. This makes it less likely that your roof will develop mold or rot. 

Cons of Slate Roofing

Price

The main drawback of slate roofing is that it’s very expensive. Compared to other roofing materials, slate is far costlier, both for the material itself and the labor required to install it. For homeowners on a strict budget, slate roofing is unlikely to be within the desired price point. However, considering that slate roofing lasts for many decades, you can typically avoid Lakewood roof replacements when you have a slate roof. 

Weight 

Weight is also a drawback of slate roofing. Since slate is so heavy, it will take far longer to install. Additionally, you’ll need an experienced Lakewood roofing team to ensure that the slate is installed correctly. The weight of a slate roof will depend on how thick the slate tiles are, which is important to consider as you’re planning your new roof installation.

To learn more about slate roofing for your Lakewood roof replacement, contact All Seasons Exteriors today.