When should you replace a slate roof?
Slate roofs are designed to last 100 years or more, and when regularly inspected and properly maintained can easily reach this age. To reach this milestone, broken cracked or missing slates should be replaced promptly by an experienced slater to prevent more serious damage.
How much does it cost to replace a slate roof?
The average cost to repair a slate roof is about $1,532, with a range between $708 and $2,444. Small repairs like replacing individual shingles may cost as little as $250, but restoring a major portion can cost up to $5,000. A new slate roof costs over $10,000 to install, so even major repairs are usually worthwhile.
How many years does a slate roof last?
”Hard slate will last anywhere from 75 to 200 years, while soft slate will last only 50 to 125 years,” he said, adding that as a result, a homeowner trying to decide whether to repair, restore or replace a slate roof should first determine whether the existing slate is hard or soft.
Should I replace my slate roof with asphalt?
Of course, over the typical 75-year lifespan of a soft slate roof, you would need to replace a cheap asphalt roof 3 to 4 times. Even so, that’s a savings of nearly $15,000 over 75 years. If you want a nicer asphalt roof that looks a little more like slate, you could opt for architectural shingle.
Is a slate roof worth it?
Benefits of a Slate Roof
Slate is valuable because of its longevity and aesthetic appeal. … Slate is one of the few roofing options that doesn’t need to be replaced within the span of a lifetime. In most environments, slate shingles will last at least 125 years and sometimes as long as 200 years.
Which is better slate or tile roof?
Slates or tiles – do you know the difference? … The most crucial difference is that natural roofing slate is exactly that – a natural product, whilst tiles – whether concrete or clay – are manufactured. Therefore for those looking for an authentic rustic look, slate tiles may well be the more appealing choice.
How do you maintain a slate roof?
Regular maintenance should include cleaning gutters at least twice during the fall and once in early spring, and replacing damaged slates promptly. Every five to seven years inspections should be conducted by professionals experienced in working with slate and steep slopes.
Why are roof repairs so expensive?
Materials, labor and insurance costs are the factors that drive roof repair prices through the roof. Here’s why. The price of asphalt shingles rose 58 percent from 2008 to 2009, and prices have continued increasing. … Even disposal of materials is expensive if your contractor needs to haul away your old, heavy shingles.
How do you walk on a slate roof?
The generally accepted method for working on slate roofs is via the use of hook ladders, which hook over the ridge of the roof and allow the contractor to walk all over the roof without putting any weight on the roof itself. Aluminum hook ladders do not need to be padded.
Can my house support a slate roof?
Slate is non-porous, so your roof will be safe from mold and fungus. Slate is fireproof and highly resistant to heavy rains, high winds and extreme temperatures. Slate is a heavy material, and many homes aren’t equipped to support its weight.
Can you power wash a slate roof?
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. Pressure washing can break apart slates or drive water up under slates and cause leaks.
What is the longest lasting roof?
The NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) rates slate as by far the longest lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of 150+ years, followed closely by clay and concrete at roughly 100 years.
Can you put asphalt shingles over a slate roof?
Re: Asphalt shingles over slate roof
It won’t work and you’re 100% right about slate damage from nailing! It’s impossible to drive a nail through a piece of slate w/o breaking it.