5 BENEFITS OF A SLATE ROOF
What are the benefits of a slate roof?
Whether you are building a custom home or in the process of replacing your current roof, choosing a material for your roof is a big decision. While many homeowners opt for shingles, slate roofs not only take the aesthetics of your home to the next level but they have many advantages over other types of roofing.
5 benefits of a slate roof
An increasingly popular option for roofs, slate will set your home apart and increase your home’s resale value. Let’s take a look at 5 benefits of slate roofs.
-
Long-Lasting
Slate is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. While many roofing materials are manufactured from artificial materials, slate is a solid natural rock composed of volcanic ash or clay that undergoes a metamorphosis. Slate roofs can easily withstand the forces of nature lasting anywhere from 75 to 100 years.
-
Low-Maintenance
Routine inspections and regular maintenance extend the life of your roof significantly. Yet, unlike most other roof types, slate roofs require little maintenance. Because slate roofs are made from natural rocks, warping, rusting, and mold are not a problem. The only issue you may have with your slate roof is a loose or broken tile. Routine inspections by a certified-roofing professional can detect you do have a lost or broken tile and thereby prevent leaks or other damage from occurring. Aside from removing debris (always wear soft-soled shoes when on your slate roof), cleaning your roof, and checking gutters, slate roofs are very low maintenance.
-
Eco-Friendly
With homes becoming more sustainable and eco-friendly, homeowners are choosing environmentally friendly roofs. Slate is 100% natural – sourced from quarries – and so it has very little impact on the environment. Not only do slate roofs reduce your carbon footprint, but they can be recycled or reused when they are no longer needed. Your eco-friendly slate roof is highly energy efficient as well. Due to their dense composition, slate roofs do not let heat and cold infiltrate the home. Warmer homes in the winter and cooler homes in the summer help reduce energy costs in your home.
-
Increase Your Home’s Property Value & Visual Aesthetics
Slate roofs are absolutely stunning and add to your property’s curb appeal They come in various sizes, colors, textures, and patterns to enhance the style of your home. Slate roofs also increase your home's resale value – adding distinct character and charm. And, because slate roofs are so energy efficient, low energy costs attract potential home buyers looking to save money on their electricity bills.
-
Safety
Slate tile is fire resistant, which keeps your home safe from sparks or ash from wildfires or nearby house fires that may land on your roof. When properly installed, slate roofs receive a Class A fire rating – the highest a material can have because it is the least flammable. Slate also repels water more than other roofing materials so you don’t have to worry about frozen or cracked tiles from winter.
A slate roof is a great investment for your home. Not only does a slate roof increase your home's value, but it will last a lifetime. If you have a question or would like a free estimate, call our experts at Universal Roofing. They are always standing by, ready to help!
A Guide To Roof Parts And Roofing Shingles
Parts of a roof frame
Below is a coverage of the parts of a roof frame.
Ridge board
A ridge board is a horizontal board that connects the rafters on opposite sides of your roof frame to form a peak. The ridge board is the highest point of your roof frame.
Rafters
Rafters are a series of sloped wooden or metal beams that run from the roof’s ridge to the edge of the roof. Rafters are parts of a roof frame that support the roof deck, shingles, and other external roofing materials.
Ceiling joists
Ceiling joists are a series of structural beams that run horizontally between the rafters on opposite sides of the roof frame. The ceiling joists are parts of a roof frame that provide the framework required to attach and support the ceiling.
Collar ties
Collar ties are horizontal beams used to connect opposing rafters to prevent ridge separation from extreme winds. They are installed in the upper one-third section of the roof frame near the ridge.
Tail
The tail is the part of the rafter that stretches out beyond the wall of your building. These are the parts of a roofing frame that form the eaves.
Fascia
The fascia is a horizontal beam that is attached to the edge of your rafters to conceal the eaves and protect your home from harsh weather elements.