The longevity of your slate roof depends on the type of rock being used. Soft slates will last for almost 80 to 90 years, whilst the hardest ones can go as far as 150 to 200 years. Although slates can be slightly more expensive upfront, you will spend less if you consider using recycled slates. Prices rise when you have a complex house, your preferred slate is fancy or the area you live in is expensive. As high as the price may be when compared with asphalt shingles, a slate roof will also last just as high as it is priced. But, in order for a slate roof to last, the installation must be done appropriately by professionals like The Slate Roofing Company.
Here is what you should know before the installation:
- Know the Place of Origin
Only knowing the price and colour of the slate you chose for your roof is not enough. Knowing the name of the manufacturer will not be enough either. What you should know is which place did it come out of the ground from. Simply put, you should the location and name of the original quarry. This is important because not every quarry has a high reputation and warranty for their products. Opt for the one that warranties a minimum of 75 years; much better if a 100.
- Know the Terms of the Warranty
Slates come with a warranty. Look for a manufacturer who guarantees that they will bear the expenses of your roof replacement should the slate ever forms pyrite stains. A list of established quarries and manufacturers is maintained by The Slate Roofing Contractors Association on its website. Additionally, consult with your installation agency to find out whether they can recycle or reinstall your old slate, adjusting the price along with it.
- Headlap and Sidelap
Another important element is the amount in which slates overlap one another in order to prevent water from entering the house. Experienced roofers draw lines using chalks on the underlayment to determine the appropriate amount of overlapping.
The overlap at each slate’s top is known as headlap. In terms of the sides, the overlap measurement should be at least 3 inches; it is called sidelap. Use an online calculator to confirm the roof’s pitch. If you have a steep roof, you will need 3 inches of headlap. But, if your roof is shallow, the headlap should be of at least 4 inches.
- The Extra Material
Although coated stainless steel costs less, the commonly used material in slate roofs is copper. There are some substances that will eat one another over time should they come in contact. This is mostly why metal components of a slate roof fail much before the slate.
This should be kept in mind when using metals in flashing, drip edges, rivets, gutters, nails, valleys, and downspouts. However, there is no need to stress on the composition of your snow guards as they do not touch other metals.
Out of the many essential ones, these are just a few factors you should keep in mind when considering a slate roof installation. Consult with The Slate Roofing Company today for always friendly advice and a free quote for your new or upgraded roof.
