Slate Roof Tiles Repair & Replacement
If you’re thinking about installing a new slate roof or you need to replace a damaged slate tile, you can count on the Weather Restoration Group. We have the expertise and experience with slate tile roofs that you need for quality installation. This guide provides you with information about the different types of slate tiles, the materials, styles, and color options available.
Slate Tile Materials
A slate roof has individual slate tiles that overlap with each other and are attached to a solid substrate. Slate tiles are most often used on a sloping roof. They are often referred to as the hundred-year roof because the tiles can withstand the weather and various natural elements for 100 years or longer. Slate tile roofs are highly specialized, which means you need an experienced contractor. You’ll find them on houses and commercial properties.
Slate tiles are made of metamorphic rock, which comes from deep within the earth. The heat and pressure turn minerals, clay, and other materials into rock with a higher level of density, which is why it can withstand the elements on a roof.
The color of the slate tile tells you what materials are in it. A black or gray tile has a lot of carbon. Brownish or reddish slat tiles have a high amount of iron or hematite. You’ll find natural slate in blue, red, green, tan, brown, and purple shades. Many manufacturers have now created faux slate tiles, which mimic slate using materials like rubber, clay, asphalt, composite, and more.
Natural Slate Tiles
These tiles are developed from rock in quarries. If you use one color of slate, you’ll get a uniform appearance. If you use different sources of slate, the roof will demonstrate blended colors.
Natural slate can be found in different thicknesses, colors, and shapes to create unique architectural elements of the building. Slate comes from all over the world, including Germany, Brazil, and the UK. The US commercial quarries are found in various regions, including Vermont, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Concrete Slate Tiles
Concrete slate comes from a mixture of cement, sand and water with dyes to alter the color. These tiles prevent damage from hail and wind to the roof. However, natural slate lasts longer than concrete.
Metal Slate Tiles
Metal offers durability while providing the appearance of slate. These tiles come in many shapes and colors. They are often made of steel, but they can be built out of copper or aluminum.
Composite Slate Tiles
Composite slate tiles are made up of a variety of materials, including plastic and other sustainable materials. They are lighter in weight than other types of slate tiles and easier to handle. You can find products that have a Class A fire rating, a Class 4 impact resistance, and wind ratings up to 110mph.
Asphalt Slate Shingles
Asphalt shingles can provide the appearance of slate but are made of asphalt and fiberglass. They create shadows and in-depth cutouts to replicate the look of slate, but they’re more affordable.
Slate Roofs
Styles and Shapes of Slate Roofs
The most common type of slate roof is the standard uniform style. The tiles are usually between ¼” and 3/8” thick. They come in different lengths and widths. They are installed with an offset pattern, alternating the vertical joints with each row to provide more stability.
Patterned Slate Roof
If you choose a slate tile roof with different colors, you can create a patterned roof. The result is a distinctly unique design that draws attention. You’ll see this style on churches, museums, and other historical buildings along with residential properties.
Hang-Down Staggered Slate Roof
You can use slate tiles of different widths and lengths to create this type of roof. The slate tiles overlap, which you can personalize for a unique design.
Textural Slate Roof
When you use natural slate, it can vary in shape, thickness, and width. If you leave it this way, you can get a more textured roof. Chipped corners and rough edges enhance the look.
Blended Slate Roof
Using multicolor tiles, you can create a blended roof. You can choose colors that work well together, such as gray and green or blue. The tiles are lined up in an offset pattern for an attractive roof.
Scalloped Tile Roof
Scalloped tiles have a curved edge on the bottom. They add a unique look that resembles fish scales.
Graduated and Tapered Slate Roof
This style of slate tile is ideal for roofs with curved or rounded areas, such as with towers. The tile must be developed to fit in a specific spot. You can use scalloped tiles or straight edge tiles for this roof.
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Choose an Experienced Roofing Contractor
When you want to install a slate roof, you need someone who is a professional and experienced working with slate tiles. The contractor should be bonded, licensed, and insured. They should be experienced with slate tiles and be able to show examples of completed projects. The contactor should also have knowledge about working with insurance companies to file claims.
If you’re ready to have a new slate tile roof or you need your current one repaired, you can contact Weather Restoration Group. Contact us for a free consultation.
