A slate roof is a hallmark of a historical house. Its gorgeous gray color and thick, rugged edges give even new houses a timeless European feel. But let’s not forget the major downside of slate roofs: They are pretty pricey. Luckily, you can get the same classic look of slate shingles for a fraction of the cost thanks to composite slate shingles. Let’s take a look at how composite slate shingles compare to slate. We’ll give you a hint: Composite shingles have the same great look and quality of slate, but they won’t destroy your renovation budget.
How Composite Slate Shingles Compare to Slate
Natural Slate
True slate comes from Mother Nature. Miners retrieve this stone from the earth, and companies develop it into shingles. Archeologists have found pieces of slate roofing that date all the way back to 1625 in Jamestown, Virginia, and it has remained a classic American roofing choice for centuries (source). If you are lucky enough to own a historic home with a natural slate roof, make sure to take good care of it, as the unique feature adds to the value of your home. Periodically inspect your roof for cracked and loose shingles, especially after a storm. And if you notice a problem, immediately contact a roofing contractor who has experience working on historic slate roofs.
If you’re hoping to add a natural slate roof to your home, keep in mind that it costs about twice as much as a composite shingle roof, and the material might be too heavy for some homes. However, slate roofs can last for up to 100 years, so if you have one placed it will add to the property value and integrity of your home. It is a great investment for those who plan on living in their home for decades to come.
Composite Slate Shingles
If you’ve fallen in love with the beauty of slate shingles but not the price tag, composite slate shingles might be the right choice for you. Although these shingles aren’t guaranteed to last for 100 years, they are extremely durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Another perk of composite slate shingles is they are much more lightweight than natural slate shingles, so you won’t have to worry about your ceiling cracking under the pressure of natural slate rock.
When compared to natural slate, composite slate shingles are also a more eco-friendly choice. Rather than taking the earth’s limited resource of slate, these shingles consist of material that can easily be recycled. It’s a win for your wallet and our planet.
As with natural slate shingles, it’s imperative that you have your composite slate shingle roof installed by an experienced professional. Since these shingles have a rough edge, they can cause many problems down the road if a reliable professional doesn’t install them correctly. Ask your contractor about their experience with this roofing material and review their warranty carefully to ensure they stand by their work.
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Now that you know how composite slate shingles compare to slate, it’s up to you to determine which material you want to choose. If you live in southern Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help with your decision. We are certified to install composite slate shingles, and it would be our honor to work with you. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding composite slate shingles, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!