Slate Roof Pros And Cons
The installation of a slate roof can be a big investment. You need to know all the pros and cons before deciding if it is the right choice for you. A slate roof has many advantages, including easy maintenance, long lifespan, energy-efficiency, easily recyclable, aesthetic appeal, variety of colors, and return on investment. Like any other roofing type, slate has its share of disadvantages. These include complex installation, high-cost, replacement issues, fragility, and the heaviness of the tiles.
Roof Structure & Water Damage Repair Cost
Roof structure repair costs $500 to $3,000, depending on the severity. Repairing roof structure and water damage may require fixing trusses and replacing decking, underlayment, insulation, and shingles. A roof replacement is recommended if more than 25% of the roof is damaged.
Roof structure & water damage repair cost| Repair | |
|---|---|
| Replace rafters, collar ties, decking, and roofing | $7,000 $10,000 |
*Asphalt shingle replacement adds $350 to $1,000 per 100 square feet when repairs require removal and replacement of roofing.
- Structural issues occur from severe water damage, improper construction, extreme weather, termites, or aging.
- Ceiling leak repair costs$400 to $1,500 to fix water damage from the roof internally.
Slate Roof Costs Per Square Foot
The average cost of installing slate shingles ranges broadly from $1.50 to $30 per sq. ft. installed. The total cost of the project differs depending on the size of your roof and the type of slate you choose. You can expect to pay more for a larger roof than a smaller roof and less for synthetic slate shingles than natural slate shingles for each roof size. The chart below outlines the cost per square foot to install a slate roof for different roof sizes:
| Roof Sizes |
|---|
| $10 – $30 |
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Can Roof Tiles Wear Out
Tiles are made to last for years, but these tiles tend to get exposed to constant and extreme changes in the atmosphere, which most likely be the cause of sealants losing strength that eventually will cause tiles to weaken, crack and chip off parts. It is important to check your roof if the weather permits.
Cost To Install A Slate Roof
These estimates are for BASIC work performed in serviceable conditions by qualified trade professionals using MID GRADE materials. Work not mentioned on this page and/or work using master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS! Explore the full range of slate roofing tile new installation labor options and material prices here.
These estimates are NOT substitutes for written quotes from trade professionals. Homewyse strongly recommends that you contact reputable professionals for accurate assessments of work required and costs for your project – before making any decisions or commitments.
The cost estimate includes:
- Costs for local material / equipment delivery to and service provider transportation to and from the job site.
- Costs to prepare the worksite for Slate Roofing Installation, including costs to protect existing structure, finishes, materials and components.
- Labor setup time, mobilization time and minimum hourly charges that are commonly included for small Slate Roofing Installation jobs.
The cost estimate does NOT include:
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Fibre Cement Roof Slate Prices
Manufactured from fibre cement to look exactly like genuine slate, fibre cement roof slate boasts a lower price on average per slate than genuine slate roofs. They are made to a consistent thickness so unlike genuine roof slate they dont need sorting by thickness to create an attractive slate roof. Fibre cement roof slate prices vary from less than £1 per slate ex. vat to just under £4 per slate ex. vat.
| Tile |
|---|
Composite Laminate And Architectural Shingles Repair
Minor composite roofing repairs cost $200 to $300 per square for roof-over installations or replacing some shingles. Composite, laminated, or architectural shingle replacement costs $350 to $1,000 per square, depending on the material quality.
- Shingles are easy to replace individually.
- Requires replacement when the stone granules begin to come off.
- Prone to damage from high winds and can lose entire sections.
- Lightweight shingles can lift, allowing water underneath.
- Composite or synthetic shingles are suitable patching materials when other roofing is unavailable.
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Argentinian Roof Slate Prices
This Argentinian roof slate tends to have less choice than other types of natural slate as its classed as phyllite slate. Phyllite slate is a hard, dense and strong slate thats manufactured when sediment turns to shale, the shale turns to slate and then that slate turns to phyllite. It boasts a satin-like sheen that allows SSQ to offer their roof slate for prices north of £2.50 ex. vat per slate.
| Tile |
|---|
| £3.05 |
How Do I Find And Hire A Roofer
When you need a new roof firstly ask friends and family or even work colleagues. Have a look around the area where you live. Is someone having a roof renewed? If they are, you can ask the owner whether they recommend the company.
If you dont find any personal recommendations, HouseholdQuotes can help you. Simply fill in the online form and well find local roofing contractors to give you no-obligation quotes.
Our recommendations may be members of the Single Ply Roofing Association or the National Federation of Roofing Contractors . These are both well-established trade associations. Their members all meet the criteria set out by each association, and they expect high standards.
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Cost To Reslate A Roof
Your roof is one of the most important components of any home. Regular maintenance is necessary to protect it and keep it functioning efficiently. As roof structures tend to wear out, reslating your roof is an option. Re-slating a roof is safely removing your existing roof or damaged area of the roof to install a new one. Reslating is a good option when the current roof is too severe to be repaired, and the cost of replacing it is too high. The average cost to relate a roof is $12 to $16 per sq. ft.
Traditional Slate Roof Cost
The high cost of materials and installation of a slate roof may deter many homeowners. The total slate roofing costs per roofing square range from $1200 to $3300 the most expensive roofing material on the market. Material costs for a slate roof vary greatly depending on the durability, color, and thickness. The most attractive and sturdy slate tiles can cost a staggering amount of money three times more than a lesser-quality-slate tile. The range in installation costs generally represents the expertise of the roofing contractor. The longevity and performance of a slate roof depend on proper installation by an experienced contractor specializing in slate roofing, which will cost a homeowner more, but is essential to the roofs success.
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Roof Repair Or Replacement
As you will have seen from the table above, a new roof will cost between £3,500 and £10,600, depending on roof size.
A slate roof repair on the other hand will cost a lot less. For example, replacing 6 damaged Welsh slate tiles will cost approximately £185.00.
You might need a roof restoration rather than a new roof or a roof repair. A roof restoration will involve inspecting the roof for signs of wear or damage, carrying out any necessary tile replacements or repairs and then cleaning the roof to improve its appearance
What Is The Process Of Replacing The Current Roof With A Slate Roof
First, the existing roof must be carefully removed. The structure below will need to be in good order before the new slate roof is fitted. There may be a requirement to renew or upgrade sections of the structure.
If your chosen slates are pre-holed, then they will be quicker to install as they can be nailed directly onto the battens. If not, they will all need to be drilled out first. Slate needs to be double-lapped and sometimes treble-lapped so installing a slate roof is a skilled job.
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How Do You Walk On A Slate Roof
Secure the rags and towels into place as you work by fastening them with bungee cords or nylon zip ties. Continue wrapping and tying until the flat sides of both uprights have been completely protected with towels and rags. Slate roofing tiles are very delicate and can easily crack and dislodge under your weight.
The Cost Of New Slate Roof Installation
The cost of purchasing slate tiles is only part of the puzzle when it comes to installing a slate roof. Slate roofing is much less common than other roofing types, so it requires specialized labor from roofing companies who are experienced at installing slate.
This is one of the biggest costs of a new slate roof. You will have to pay for skilled labor from a licensed, insured, and bonded roofing company, like NSW Slate Roofing. The costs depend on the type of slate you use, the size of your home or business, the angle of the roof, and many other factors. However, the cost is usually somewhere around $30 per square foot â making slate roofing quite a bit more than asphalt shingles, which are usually installed for about $10 per square foot.
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Knowledge And The Beginner
I skipped over a vital aspect right at the start of this case study. I assumed that you knew that there was such a thing as a minimum pitch for a slate roof.
If you were a true beginner, you wouldnt have known that this constraint existed. Perhaps the only way you would come to know about it is via a more experienced colleague telling you, usually the project architect or responsible director or a mentor if you have one.
The true beginner is excused from not knowing as they are reliant on the input of others with more experience and responsibility. This means that the onus is on those others to make sure that you do know about these things.
Once you become aware of the issue, though, the onus is on you to ensure that your design complies with the constraint. Although youre unlikely to be working in isolation, you now share a responsibility to ensure that the design complies.
In the case of minimum pitches, this is something that exists for all forms of roof construction.
2. Confidence in your design concept
In a different version of this case study, you might have only checked the roof pitch after planning permission was granted. In finding that the slate solution didnt work, the client then preferred a zinc sheet alternative solution and the design had to be re-worked and an amendment to the planning permission sought.
A concept that is later found to be unworkable, isnt much of a concept.
3. Getting to the source of things
There are four reasons to do this:
Natural Roof Slate Prices
Natural roof slate is the most authentic and traditional way to get a slate roof. Natural slate has been used for centuries from around the world. The cost of natural roof slates depends on where the slate was quarried , which company supplies this slate, and the grade of slate. Grade refers to the quality of the slate based on the thickness and its essential that if purchasing first quality slate, you continue to purchase first quality slate for any extra slates or repair work.
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Slate Roof Maintenance And Cleanings
If you choose to install full or partial slate roofing on your home, its recommended that you choose a company that will provide maintenance work, if needed. In many cases, the maintenance work will be covered under warranty. Every company has a different policy, so youll want to check with the one you choose to find out the type of issues they cover as well as the length of their warranty.
The good news is that it requires little to no maintenance since it doesnt warp, rust, or attract mold. Its also unlikely to be damaged by storms or hurricanes. Just make sure you trim branches that could land on it and cause damage and avoid walking on your roof as much as possible.
As for slate roof cleaning, its best to schedule regular cleanings to help maintain the appearance and structural integrity of your roof. Hire an experienced slate roof cleaner to remove debris and wash the tiles with a gentle cleaning solution. Cleaning your natural slate roof will help it last even longer.
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Be wary of paying per slate. As sizes differ considerably between products and ranges, overlapping requirements vary so buying on a per m2 rate offers much more price certainty
Chinese slate is one of the most affordable options on the market with a plethora of hues available, but the cheapest versions do have a reputation for bleaching. However, quality is improving and a number of products now meet BS EN 12326.
Its always worth researching the quarrys consistency in testing and order samples before you buy. Once delivered, grab a random tile and tap it. Good quality versions will produce a clear ring as opposed to the dull thud of poorer examples.
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Slate Roof Cost & Prices 2021
A slate roof is an excellent choice for a new roof due to its durability, visual aesthetics and low effort to maintain it over its lifespan.
Real slate can add bundles of character to your property. But as with all materials of high-quality, slate can be on the pricier side. Its worth balancing that against its long lifespan, which means you can expect it to pay for itself in due course.
This article will cover the sorts of costs you can expect to pay for a flat roof as well as other factors which may affect the price of flat roofs.
Slate Roof Cost Estimate Prices For Slate Roof Tiles
The average cost of a slate roof starts at $20,000 or more. This is not surprising, since slate is king among all forever roofing materials. Its set far apart from the rest in terms of exceptional curb appeal, durability and long lasting service.
Across Europe and US, slate roofs have been used to cover upscale homes and palaces for centuries. They have a time proven track record of resistance to severe weather, a service life lasting well over 100 years, and a classic look that never goes out of style.
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Cost To Install Snow Guards
Snow guards help to evenly distribute the weight of snow and ice and help protect against damage in climates where snow and ice are common, averaging in cost between $15 and $22 each installed. They work best when installed evenly over the surface of the roofing material. Snow guards are necessary for slate roofing as they are normally installed on pitched roofs and can prevent ice damming and chunks of snow or ice falling on your head or parked cars nearby.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring A Roofer
Always write down the questions you want to ask a roofing contractor. That way you wont forget anything important that you want to be included in your quote. Common questions to ask a contractor are:
- What experience do you have installing slate roofing?
- Do you have a website where I can look at your past projects?
- If you dont have a website, do you have a portfolio with photographs of work youve completed in the past?
- Do you have references or testimonials from your previous customers?
- Are you a member of SPRA or NFRC?
- Do you organise the scaffolding and is the cost included in my quotation?
- Do you organise any rubbish removal?
- Have you got public liability insurance? (This is important because if someone has an accident on your land because of the roof repair, they could take you to court. The roofers insurance will cover you against these claims.
Finally, make sure you get a written quote and that it includes everything you want the contractor to do.
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How Much Is A Slate Roof Tile
Slate Roofing Tile Costs
As mentioned earlier, the cost of slate roofing tile is probably its biggest con. Slate tile roofing cost per square is about $6,000 to $8,000 installed, though some estimates are a little more conservative, at anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 per square.
How much is a slate roof?
Average cost: $11,000 $24,000 The average roofing installation price for a slate tile roof costs anywhere between $11,550 to $24,000 depending on the slope, pitch, and size of your homes roof. You can expect to pay $9 to $16 per sq. foot or $900 to $1,600 per square installed on a standard sized single story home.
how long does a slate roof last?
Contents
Do You Need To Clean A Slate Roof
Regular roof cleaning is critical for your roof, as slate is easy to cleave and water absorbent. Buildup of moss and debris on slate roofs hold moisture in the slates that can split them during winter. It is also important to never pressure wash your slate roof or even use too strong a blast from a garden hose.
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