Slate Roof Cost

Before going for any kind of major renovation, it is but natural that you research for the project costs involved. That way, you know how much you may have to spend and be ready with an adequate budget. If you are aiming to go for a change in roofing, slate roofing is an excellent option to go for.

About Slate Roofing
If you are looking for elegant and sturdy roofing, then slate is what you should go for. One of the most durable roofing materials available, slate roofing can provide solidity and class to your house roof.

Slate is a type of homogeneous metamorphic rock derived from the metamorphosis of sedimentary rocks. It occurs predominantly in gray color, though other shades ranging from purple, green to cyan are also available. Slate roofing is popular in Europe and 90% of slate supplied there, originates from Spain. Slate is mined worldwide as it is a versatile material used in roofing, as well as flooring in construction. In USA, these roofs are still opted for by many, but metal roofing, asphalt roofing and other new types of roofing are more popular.

Slate can be easily converted into roofing shingles due to the two lines of breakability it has, which are grain and cleavage. Due to this property, slate can be easily split into thin sheets. What makes it and ideal candidate for roofing shingles is its low water absorption index that is lower than 0.4%. This low water absorption rate makes it impervious to breakage caused by freezing and frost damage. The only minus point of slate as a roofing material is its weight. Due to the heaviness of slate roofing, extra reinforcement may need to be made to the roof during installation. No roofing is perfect and it comes with its share of shortcomings and advantages.

They come in two types. One is natural mined slate and the other is synthetic slate made from rubber and plastic composites. The synthetic type are made to look like natural slate but are much lighter.

Cost Estimate
The cost of a slate roof depends on many factors, including the type of slate, roof design, height, its square footage and the method of installation. If you opt for natural slate, the overall cost per square foot ranges from $9 to $40, depending on the quality of slate. Instead, if you opt for synthetic slate, cost per square foot will be $7 to $9 only. The overall costs will include the charges for reinforcement that may be required in case you opt for natural slate and also cost involved in removing previous roofing material if any. Compared to asphalt roofing, slate roofing is costly but it provides a host of advantages including moisture resistance and fire resistance.

Buy high quality slate to ensure a longer life for your roof. Talk with local contractors about the local costs as they vary highly with location. Natural slate roof installation is a masonry job, that requires a high degree of skill and accuracy. Go for an experienced contractor who can ensure that the project is finished in a reasonable amount of time.

Calculate the total roofing cost according to your roof's square footage, to get an idea about how much you'll have to pay overall.