Roofers Have Things Nailed Down

Natural Vs. Synthetic Slate Roofs

12 September 2022

Nora Mcdonalid

If you would like to install slate on your roof, the two types of slate you can choose from are real and synthetic slate. Each version has its advantages and disadvantages and it might be difficult to choose which one to install on your roof. 

Costs

Real slate roofing can last a very long time. However, it is more expensive than synthetic slate roofing. Synthetic slate roofing is still more expensive than other options such as asphalt. 

Aesthetics

Both synthetic and real slate roofing look great. You will not be able to tell the difference if you are looking at your roof from the ground.

Artificial Slate

One type of synthetic slate shingle is "artificial slate." This type of slate shingle is meant to look as close to real slates as possible. This realistic look is achieved by combining slate with other materials such as asphalt. This allows the tiles to have the benefits of other types of materials such as being less expensive.

Weight

Synthetic slate roofing is sometimes chosen over real slate roofing because it is lighter. This makes it easier to install and is ideal if you are concerned with the weight of the real slate on your roof.

Fire-Resistance

A real slate roof is considered to be more fire-resistant than synthetic slate roofs. This is ideal if you live in an area that is prone to fires. 

Maintenance

Performing maintenance on synthetic slate roofs can be easier because real slate roofs can crack much more easily. However, one downside of a synthetic slate roof is that it is not able to hold up as well against extreme weather conditions.

Durability

Depending on how severe the weather is, it might make more sense to choose a different type of roofing material such as metal. In other cases, you might find it better to choose a less expensive material such as asphalt. This material, however, will need to be replaced sooner than slate.

The Warranty

With slate, you have a warranty that can last a very long time and you can have your roof fixed once the warranty has been voided. However, you will want to make sure that you do not do anything to void the warranty.

For example, if your roof was damaged because you were walking on it, this can lead to the warranty being voided. However, as long as you understand the pros and cons of synthetic and real slate roofs, you'll be able to choose the right one.

To learn more, contact a roof installation service in your area.

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