Made from naturally occurring rocks, slate roofing is quite popular among homeowners due to its unique aesthetic. They are also environmentally friendly as they only undergo minimal processing before installation. However, slate is costly and does require regular maintenance, forcing homeowners to look for cheaper alternatives.
Metal roofing can mimic the appearance of slate roofing without costing the same. Also, it is highly durable and will easily last over 50 years without getting affected by weather disruptions. Continue reading to find out more about the differences between slate and metal roofing and which one should you get for your home.
Slate vs metal roofing
- Durability
While both slate and metal roofing are highly durable products, homeowners need to take note of some factors before the installation of either product.
Both slate and metal are highly moisture resistant due to their dense structure. However, since slate is a naturally occurring stone, it is prone to mould or fungus infestation over time, which can reduce the overall lifespan of the product.
Slate is naturally non-combustible and hence offer excellent fire resistance. Metal, on the other hand, can heat up significantly during fires, but Class A heat resistance can be achieved when installed with a fire-resistant underlayment.
Moreover, slate tiles or shingles are not impact-resistant and will break when significant pressure is applied, especially during heavy rainfall or snowfall. Moreover, the broken tiles are difficult to replace and will need expert hands to prevent damage to the neighbouring tiles.
- Installation
Metal roofs are lightweight and therefore easier to install than slate. Naturally occurring slate is heavier and the installation can be tricky without expert guidance. Moreover, the weight of slate means that the house will need to be reinforced if the structural foundation cannot bear the weight.
That said, both metal and slate shingles can be installed in an interlocking pattern to maximise the wind and hail resistance during winters. However, homeowners will need to inspect the roofing after a storm to identify any broken or chipped slate and replace them immediately to prevent water leaks.
- Maintenance
Slate is also slightly tricky to maintain and requires periodic inspection for loose or broken tiles. Metal roof maintenance is fairly easier when compared to slate, but the effort and cost can go high if there is paint involved. In addition, you will also need to check for loose fasteners to prevent structural damage.
Slate and metal roofing: which one should you get?
Both slate and metal roofing are excellent roofing choices that will last you a lifetime if properly maintained. Both are highly sustainable materials and offer a distinct aesthetic appeal to your house. However, homeowners will need to conduct a thorough inspection of the property before selecting either roofing product.
Contact a professional roofing contractor like The Slate Roofing Company for expert evaluation and installation of roofing for your house. Our certified professionals can identify any structural issues before installation so that the slate roofing can last longer and improve the visual appeal of your house.
