Slate roofs are an extremely popular choice for homes. Not only are they some of the most durable materials to employ, but their presence provides a house with a traditional aesthetic appeal that is not always possible to achieve with more modern options such as shingles.

The two main types of slate to choose from are natural tiles and man-made alternatives. Let’s look at the benefits and drawbacks of each in order to appreciate which might be the best suited for your needs.

SLATE TILES

Natural slate roofing is arguably the best substance in terms of sheer authenticity. It is also extremely durable; some roofs even outlasting the structures themselves.

The colour of natural slate will not fade over time and it is the preferred option if you are looking to restore a period home. However, we need to keep in mind that this type of slate is very heavy and that it can represent a costly investment when dealing with a large roof.

MAN-MADE FORMULATIONS

Man-made slate is essentially a reconstituted version of natural slate; allowing it to represent a much cheaper alternative. The drawback here is that man-made slate may fade over time and it is slightly less durable.

While appearances are generally the same, the chances are high that you will be able to choose a greater variety of tones when opting for man-made variants. This could be beneficial if you are hoping to match the roof with nearby elements such as walls or fascia boards.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which choice is the most appropriate for your home involves speaking with one of the specialists at Able Roofing we will also be able to address other questions such as the cost of a project as well as the overall installation process.