Roofing with Slate

Roofing with slate is very expensive. Actually slate roofing is one of the most expensive roofing material options available on the market. Even when you consider the long lasting lifespan of slate, the price is still out of reach for most homeowners. If you're looking to install a new roof Denver contractors don't always suggest these long lasting roofs. The reason for choosing slate roofing materials for your home is not affordability but aesthetics. Slate roofing materials give a home a chic yet rugged look that many modern style homes look great with. Slate can be places over a layer of composition shingles if the slope of the roof is 4-15+ is a structural engineer signs off on the roof framing sturdiness.

Slating a roof takes a considerable amount of skill; however, some skilled do-it-yourself enthusiasts are capable of the project. Slating requires quite a few specialized tools that most people do not have in their backyard sheds and these tools are fairly costly. Sometimes it is more cost effective to pay a professional to take on the task than to invest in the tools required for the job.

Slate is available in a huge variety of grades and thicknesses, so ask a salesman how long your selection is expected to last. This material also comes in many colors ranging from grays and greens to purples and reds. Some of these colors will fade after years of exposure. Slate can also be purchased in smooth or rough surfaces. Different colors and textures may be used on a single roof, but Denver roofing professionals say it can be very difficult to make pattern with the colors you choose to turn out in a pleasing design.


Just as with any stone, slate is a heavy material. The actual weight is determined by the grade of the
slate. Make sure your roof can handle the load that will be added when you decide on the material you will use. Aside from the capabilities of your roof you also need to consider local codes and that may require you to install additional supports and reinforcements. Copper flashing is recommended with using slate because it last for a very long time and will look great with your new slate roof.

Professionals specializing in slating use three tools when installing a roof. They utilize a hammer with a sharp edge  for cutting slat, a nail ripper used to cut off a nail level to the surface, a T-bar to aid in trimming and a point for poking nail holes in the slate.

If you love the look of slate roofs, but just don't just have the funds to install this great roof, ask your roofer about Fiber-Cement Roofing. This material look very much like slate and are light, good looking and typically last for about 40 years. Many Denver roofing companies will offer this material to their clients, so check with yours before deciding on slate.