The global market size of slate roofs was around 962.9 million USD in 2020, and by 2027, it is supposed to reach 1325.4 million USD.
Slate is a metamorphic material that comes from clay or volcanic ash. Slate roofs appeared in European architecture and were used for roofing important buildings and businesses, and you are bound to see them on buildings with Spanish or Victorian influence.
Slate roofs were expensive and hence considered a mark of status and grandeur. Now that they are more easily accessible, they are a fine investment for your new house.
Good quality slate roofs installed by an expert run lifelong and do not require constant maintenance.
But, if you are still skeptical about it, we have listed the reasons for you to make up your mind!
1. It is everlasting
Slate is naturally sourced; it has been in the environment for years and years before becoming the hard stone it is. Hence, it is everlasting.
Slate roofs are known to last more than a century if the slate is of good quality. You also do not need to keep repairing it unless it is damaged in, say, a heavy storm.
2. Endurant and resistant
The longevity of slate comes from the fact that it can resist any and all elements that can potentially damage a roof.
It has a low water-absorption capacity and can naturally withstand mold and fungus and all kinds of weather.
Even insects have no chance of ruining your beautiful slate plates. Slate is brittle but heavy, so you don’t need to worry about your roof flying off.
3. Insulation is top-class
Slate, as a material, has less density, aiding in heat loss via the roof. Although the exact percentage is debatable, customers say slate roofs keep the house cooler than other materials. This implies a reduction in energy consumption and a fall in your electricity/utility bills.
4. Environment-friendly
If you’re one for sustainability, choose a slate roof for your new house. Slate is mostly used in its natural form, with hardly any manufacturing processes carried out on it.
If your roof ever gets old and has to be changed, slate can easily be recycled and reused in comparison to other materials that are non-biodegradable in nature… which is another green flag!
5. Aesthetically appealing
Slate roofs give a very nostalgic and classy Victorian vibe to the house. So, it will fit in despite which neighborhood you live in.
Even if your house is ordinary looking, a slate roof can give it a touch of grandiosity, making it stand out from the others.
6. Boosts the resale value
Because slate roofs are heavy, the house and the roof foundation have to be structurally well-designed to support its weight.
If you are selling your old house, the presence of a slate roof brings more desirability and value to the house in the market because houses with slate roofs are considered well-built and structurally strong.
7. One-time investment
Slate roofs are expensive, of course. But that is due to its installation costs. Skilled architects and builders need to design your roof so that it stands on all the aforementioned expectations.
But even though it is expensive, it proves to be a valuable investment in the long run, saving you hundreds of dollars in repairs and maintenance.
8. Easily customizable
If you’re building a new house, it definitely makes sense to get a roof that matches the rest of the building.
The good news is slate can be easily made in uniform tiles or shingles, and a plethora of designs can be made on slate to give it a classy touch.
If you are still hesitant, you must consult a slate roofing contractor to get a clearer idea. Discuss the theme and look of your house and the quality of the necessary products you need. Ask if they can customize a slate roof in desirable ways.
If you don’t know where to get a contractor, seek a quality slate roof seller’s referral. Being in the industry for a long time, they can help you out!
Over to you
Agreed, a slate roof is a huge investment and can throw you off the budget. But if you calculate the long-term costs of roof-fixing and its frequency, this is a cheaper way out. Slate does not have many disadvantages, and its benefits overshadow the pain points.
