Slate roofing is both attractive and long lasting. Slate combines natural beauty with human ingenuity, and this roofing material is far more durable than any of the others. This low-maintenance material is most common on industrial buildings, as well as churches and government buildings. In regions with high naturally occurring slate deposits, slate roofing is also common on homes, and sometimes even on barns and sheds. Slate is relatively easy to shape and repair, and should be well preserved, particularly on historic structures, although sometimes, replacing pieces of slate is necessary. Because so many historical buildings date from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century, and slate roofs have an average lifespan of 65-125 years, replacement is the only option.

Unfortunately, this can often amount to poor construction and repair, or switching the slate out for a different roofing material. However, preservationists are working to expand the body of knowledge about slate and the correct way to install and repair it. The desired end is to preserve as much of the original material as possible, thereby remaining true to the integrity of the original construction. Of course, when the slate is deteriorated, it is a better practice to replace the entire roof with new slate. In these cases, proper installation is crucial to ensure a roof that is easy to maintain and able to withstand the elements for years to come.

Slate reflects light uniquely and the color of slate tiles can range from bluish, to gray, to yellow, brown, and clay-red. Though the spectrum is restricted to earth tones, the variety of naturally occurring colors is stunning. Because of its natural look, slate doesn’t “stick-out” the way synthetically color treated materials might. Slate roofs can put on a bit of a show as the sunlight strikes it differently throughout the year. Rainy days can also create colorful reflections off your roof which are pleasing to the eye. The care put into the shaping of slate tile is immediately noticeable from the street. Slate is also a good choice because of its naturally waterproof, fireproof, and mold-proof qualities. While slate is considered a high-end building material, it is actually one of the most economical choices in the long run, as it requires so little maintenance.

When replacing a slate roof, also consider the lack of waste you’ll be throwing into the landfill. Slate fragments are a terrific addition to borders and flowerbeds, as they create an attractive, finished look. Slate chips provide all the benefits of mulch: water conservation, weed control, and protection from frost. Incorporating slate chips into your landscaping has the added benefit of deterring neighborhood cats from intruding into your garden and defiling it. The hard surface of the slate is unpleasant to cats and they will go elsewhere instead of digging up your nice flowerbeds.

This unique and plentiful material makes excellent roofing material and can be repurposed if it ever needs replacing. The low maintenance costs also lends itself to being an excellent choice for your next roofing project.

www.VirginiaSlate.com is the leading supplier to contractors of high grade roofing slate across the East Coast from Maine to Florida and west to Oklahoma.

http://www.virginiaslate.com is the leading supplier to contractors of high grade roofing slate across the East Coast from Maine to Florida and west to Oklahoma. Check out http://www.virginiaslate.com/inventory/roofing.html for more.

Author Bio: www.VirginiaSlate.com is the leading supplier to contractors of high grade roofing slate across the East Coast from Maine to Florida and west to Oklahoma.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: Home, Repair, Renovation, Construction, Budget