Slate roof tiles are a wonderful way to add character to your home. Slate is a natural stone that is both fireproof and waterproof, and it can even be used to integrate solar panels. This natural stone is an excellent choice for many reasons, but the disadvantages are pricey and installation can be a challenge. Here are some pros and cons of slate roof installation. Let’s look at them together. Listed below are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you must understand how slate roof tiles are made. They are a natural product of compression of clay and other materials under tremendous pressure in the earth. These materials are split into roof tiles by building layers on top of each other. Before you start installing slate roof tiles, you should test each slab by squeezing it. If the slabs move back and forth when squeezed, they may not lay properly once installed. Always use a nail length that is double the thickness of the tiles.
Second, it is important to remember that the color of slate roof tiles changes over time, depending on the quality of the slate. You should have a visual inspection of the roof once a year. For a better visual inspection, use binoculars. Make sure to replace any loose or broken tiles. Slate is a 100% natural material, so it can easily change color. Nevertheless, a properly installed slate tile roof should last a lifetime.
Slate tile roof installation requires care and expertise. It costs anywhere from $600 to $1,500 per square foot. If your home has an uneven roof or a complicated roof layout, slate roof installation can be a complicated process. Fortunately, you can find a professional to complete the job. These pros will make sure your roof is installed correctly, and provide long-term reliability and leak-free performance. So, if you are considering slate tile roof installation, don’t be hesitant. You will be glad you did. So, let us review some pros and cons of slate tile roof installation.
Slate tile roof installation requires proper documentation. It’s essential to document the process in order to know exactly how your roof was constructed. Documenting the process allows you to see details that would otherwise remain hidden from the naked eye. In addition to revealing details, you can uncover nail hole patterns or shadow lines on the roof deck. Occasionally, you may even find bits of historic material in the eave cavities. This is all part of the history of your home.
The size of the pieces is another factor to consider. Depending on the pitch of the roof, you’ll need to choose a roof height that is between three and eight inches. You can calculate the slope with an online calculator. If you have a steep slope, you’ll need at least three inches of overlap on the sides and three inches on the top.