Slate roofing is a beautiful and durable material for any residential roof but it's also incredibly expensive. Fortunately, there are alternatives that can provide the look of slate without the high price tag. Synthetic slate is one popular alternative to real slate. But is it right for your home? Here are the pros and cons of synthetic slate that you should consider as you make your choice.
PROS
Price
When you want the look of slate but not the price, synthetic slate is a lower-cost alternative made from a variety of materials including rubber, plastics, clay, asphalt, etc. It costs between $10 and $20 per square foot for a synthetic roof compared to real slate which is often double that price.
Easy Installation
Another benefit of choosing synthetic slate is that it's much easier to install than regular slate and that will cut down on installation time and costs. That's because it's easy to trim and fasten down, whereas regular slate is time-consuming to cut and customize.
Recyclable
Another great characteristic of synthetic slate is that it's often made from recycled material and is completely recyclable after its lifespan on your roof as well. It makes an environmentally-friendlier option than quarried slate stone.
Durable
Synthetic slate is highly durable and can withstand heavy storms and even impacts. It's also a UV-resistant material. It can help keep your roof protected for many years to come.
CONS
Young Material
One drawback of choosing synthetic slate is that it's a fairly young material, meaning it hasn't been on the market very long. Because of that, there's very little real-world testing of its lifespan. Although it's estimated by manufacturers to last many years, the material is still too new to have solid data on its practical application.
Aesthetics
Some argue that synthetic slate can't match the aesthetic of regular slate roofing and that it brings a lesser-quality look to the roof. However, others have difficulty telling the difference between the two. It's really up to the eye of the beholder.
Fire Resistance Variations
Not every synthetic slate roofing material is the same and there is a variation in fire resistance with each material. If fire resistance is important to you, you'll need to work with your roofer to make sure the synthetic slate you choose has the highest Class A fire rating to ensure optimal fire resistance on your own roof.
For more info about residential roofing replacements, contact a local company.