Minnesota Roofing Options: All About Slate Roofing
Slate has been a primary source of roofing materials for over 700 years, and most people would agree that it's one of the most aesthetically pleasing materials you can choose. It's known for its durability and for helping keep homes protected, dry, and comfortable while adding beauty, elegance, and strength to the house.
Understanding your residential or commercial roofing options is crucial, so Restoration Geeks are here with a breakdown of slate roofing and how it can benefit your home.
What Is Slate Roofing?
Slate roofing is made from a synthetic mold using resins or rubber or a natural stone cut from a metamorphic rock made of ash and clay. This combination results in one of the longest-lasting materials you can choose from, and it comes in two variations: soft and hard.
It was first used as early as the 1300s and is primarily found in historical homes or ones that have a vintage aesthetic.
How Can Slate Roofing Benefit Your Home?
The list of benefits slate roofing offers is long, but a few key features include durability, eco-friendliness, and enhanced curb appeal. Its high quality pays off in the long run because it requires fewer replacements than traditional materials, saving you time and money.
Durability
A slate roof can last over 100 years or more with a high-quality installation. And slate roofing is practically indestructible, unlike traditional systems, which will break down due to weather exposure.
It holds up successfully against:
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Hailstorms
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Snow and sleet
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Extreme heat
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High winds
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Excessive rain
Eco-Friendly
Slate is also an eco-friendly choice because it is a natural material. Other options, like asphalt, only last 15 to 20 years and will end up in a landfill. In contrast, slate can last up to a century because it is derived directly from rock. It's also recyclable, making it one of the lowest-impact materials on the market for the environment.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
Slate also has an elegant and timeless look to it, as well as versatility. It comes in many different sizes, colors, and shapes while at the same time ages gracefully and will maintain its beauty through the years with proper maintenance and care.
Low Maintenance
Slate is also a low-maintenance option because it is fire, fungi, weather, temperature, water, and mold resistant. You'll spend less time worrying about damages for mildew and water, and it will reduce the cost of maintenance that traditional materials require.
Increased Property Value
The fact is, if you decide to sell your home, slate roofing is going to attract more buyers. On top of this, it will also bring you a higher value on the market due to its durability and because it's considered a more structurally well-built and strong roofing material, making it a desirable addition.
Potential Drawbacks of Slate Roofing
You want to choose the right product for your home, so it's essential to understand the benefits and drawbacks of the materials you're considering. Slate roofs have many advantages but may not be ideal for all homeowners due to the cost and heavy material, which requires professional attention.
The Cost
Slate roofing is the most expensive material on the market; it can range between $900 to $1600 per square foot. This does not include installation, so depending on the size of the home, this can result in a hefty price. However, its durability and dependability can pay for itself over the years due to fewer replacements and repairs.
The Material Is Heavy
Because slate is an aged stone, it is an extremely heavy material, and the tiles can weigh between 800 and 1500 pounds per square foot. Because of this, your building must have a special inspection to ensure it can hold the weight of the roofing system.
Other Minnesota Roofing Options
Slate is just one of the options available, and it may not always be the right option, so some of our other favorite materials include:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly used roof types, and it's the least reflective, which means they are more resistant to hail mildew and have higher UV reflection qualities, which can help you save money on your energy costs.
Cedar Shake
If you're looking for a beautiful alternative, cedar shake offers a classic style and is typically chosen for its unique aesthetics. It's an eco-friendly option that holds up well in Minnesota winters and comes in medium and heavy designs depending on your desired grade and thickness.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofing can last up to 100 years, and it's similar to asphalt shingles and is made up of concrete and clay. They offer a durable and beautiful aesthetic that can come in different shapes, like fluted, curved, flat, or interlocking, and are resistant to insect and rot damage.
Need a Slate Roofing Specialist in Minnesota?
There are many options available for your roof material, and slate offers a higher return on investment and a unique aesthetic that will last for years. When you need residential roofing, you want top-rated professionals, and Restoration Geeks delivers!
Our 20 years in the industry have helped us create streamlined processes for roof repair and siding installation our clients know and trust in Minnesota. Enhance your home today with our expert services by calling us at 952-500-9546. Or message us online, and one of our technicians will get back to you right away!