Slate roofing materials have always had a high demand because of their eternal charm and high durability. They are also extremely resilient to fire and water damage. Slate naturally deviates heat, which makes it appropriate to be used in hot and humid Southeastern climates, including Australia. Slate roofing systems can bear winds, storms, and other harsh weather conditions which make it a good long term solution for your roofing needs. Slate is an exceptionally fine-grained, which was formed many many years ago from firmly compressed clay deposits in the earth. Slate is composed of two lines of vulnerability: grain and cleavage. Due to these lines, slate can be easily divided into the thin sheets, that are now used in slate roofing across the world. Slate roofing materials are available in different types and styles. Spanish and Welsh slates are extremely popular worldwide. Thus, it is crucial for you to know their features and differences between them prior setting up slate on your roof.
Spanish Slate
More than 90% of all slate sold around the world is mined in Spain. The best thing about Spanish slate is natural earthy appearance. It can give an edge to the overall looks of your home. It is long-lasting, robust and can guard your house against the adverse climatic conditions for several years. The quality of Spanish slate varies. The cheaper the Spanish slate is, the softer it is. The inexpensive Spanish slate weathers down rapidly and consists of abominable iron pyrites. When iron is present in Spanish slate, it results in the formation of Pyrite. The slate rusts in the course of time and covers the roof with brownish spots.
Welsh Slate
It is the best slate available in the market. Welsh slate is highly tenacious and requires maintenance after a span of a decade or more years. So, you do not need to pay a good deal of price for maintaining Welsh slate. It is also totally water resistant and remains undamaged if you live near an ocean. It is also unaffected by pollution and will not be ruined by the harmful UV radiations of the sun.
Differences between Welsh Slate and Spanish Slate
Welsh slate is quite older than Spanish slate and has been present in Earth since a long span of time. Thus, the characteristics of Welsh slate differs a lot from Spanish slate. Due to its old age, Welsh slate is much denser than Spanish slate. In other words, it can be said that Welsh slate is tougher and more enduring than Spanish slate.
Though Spanish slate is quite durable, Spanish slate will fade and deteriorate at a faster pace compared to Welsh slate.
You always need to contact the right supplier of slate, if you are planning for slate roofing for your home. Do not go for low-cost options as sometimes it may not work well for your roof. It could result in poor quality slate or shonky installation that requires more maintenance or even rework. Some Spanish slate, which is imported from Australia may be less enduring and more prone to cracking, rusting and discoloration. The proficient slate installation service providers can assist you in selecting the most appropriate slate material according to your preferences and install it successfully on your roof. Contact The Slate Roofing Company today to get a competitive quote for your next slate roof.
