Slate roofs are exceptionally popular due to their attractive look and great durability. The reason for the high durability is slate’s natural ability to repel water and fire damage. Additionally, since the material does not absorb heat, it is the perfect roofing material in hot and arid conditions. Slate roofing ensures your house remains cool even under the blazing heat from the sun.
If you are in the market for slate for your roof, you may have come across the various types of slate, such as the Welsh and Spanish kind.
Spanish slate and its properties
Slate sourced from Spain is the most common form of the material in the market. In fact, almost 90% of all slate in the world is from Spain. Spanish slate is more popular due to its earthy appearance, which when used as a roofing material can create a charming look for your house. However, like all other kinds of slate, Spanish slate is available in soft and hard forms.
The softer slate is cheaper but is also less durable than its harder counterpart. Therefore, choose the harder variety even if it costs you more money. The harder slate can withstand the forces of nature for a longer period without losing its integrity or falling apart. The softer slate contains iron pyrite, which can effectively lead to corrosion from within the slate itself.
Welsh slate and its properties
While Spanish slate is more commonly found in the market. Welsh slate is unmatched when it comes to quality. If you want your home’s roofing to last a few decades, you have no better option than Welsh slate. This type of material is completely impervious to water damage, which is ideal for people residing near seas and oceans.
Even though Welsh slate is expensive, it saves your money in the long run, because you do not need to conduct repairs on the roof once the Welsh slate is installed. Additionally, you can rest easy knowing that the slate will remain unaffected from the sun’s UV rays and from the adverse effects of pollution.
Now that you know the two most popular variants of slate available for roofing in your homes, here is a detailed look at the difference between Welsh and Spanish slate in terms of the following factors.
- Age
Welsh slate is much older when compared to Spanish slate. The former has been present on the face of the Earth for a longer period than the other, which is the reason for its greater durability and resilience.
- Durability
Even though Spanish slate lasts for a long time, it will eventually undergo wear and tear, leading to deterioration. Welsh slate, on the other hand, can easily last decades without any problems. It is resilient to rain, heat, UV rays and pollution damage, making it almost indestructible.
- Price
Owing to the immense durability and rarer presence of Welsh slate, it is more expensive when compared to Spanish slate.
Keep these pointers in mind before choosing the right slate roofing material for your property. Contact The Slate Roofing Company today for expert advice for the right slate for your roof. Our professional team, which services Sydney and the South Coast including the Southern Highlands would be glad to assist you!
