The short answer is YES slate roofs are good, but they’re a few things to consider; like did you know that some slate roofs will last longer than others? In general slate roofing is known to last a minimum of 50 to 75 years, but that’s on the low end of the spectrum. A high-quality S1-Grade slate roof is guaranteed to last at least 100 years and will most likely function far longer than that. All things considered, slate roofing isn’t simply known for its durability and longevity, it’s also renowned for its elegant, naturally refined aesthetic. Not only will slate protect a roof for over a century but having a high-quality slate roof will increase the overall value of a property over time!

How long do slate roofs last?

There are slate roofs that were installed centuries ago, still functioning to this day. The quality and thickness of the stone will determine how long a slate roof will last. Most slate roofs are guaranteed to last at least 50 to 75 years, and S1-Grade slate roofs are commonly warrantied up to 100 years, which is longer than the life-span of most modern-day buildings. Slate is a natural product that’s produced deep underground over millions of years, so it is nearly damage proof regarding anything mother nature has to throw at it. With a zero moisture absorption factor and an extremely high resistance to impact, slate roofing is well known to be able to stand the test of time no matter the climate. Not to mention that because slate is a natural stone material, it is also fire-proof. It’s no wonder slate roofing is not merely one of the oldest forms of roofing in existence, but to this day it’s one of the most popular and sought-after roofing materials for residential and commercial projects alike.

Can you walk on slate roofs?

It is a myth that you can’t walk on slate roofs, for one thing, the slate must be walked on for it to be installed on a roof. The slate itself is a high-density stone material that is exceedingly resistant to impact and therefore it is walkable, although one should take care when traversing a slate roof to prevent damage. The safest way to walk on a slate roof without the worry of cracking a piece is to place your footsteps on the bottom of the course of the slate, as opposed to walking on the top of the slate where your weight would only be on the stone. Walking on the bottom of the courses of slate ensures that your weight is evenly transferred down to the roof deck and will prevent any damage or breakage. Slate roofs require little to no maintenance, and some lightweight slate roof systems even have preventative measures in place to prevent leaks if a piece of slate is broken or missing.

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