Natural slate and stone slate roof tiles come with their own set of pros and cons. Natural slate is a type of metamorphic rock that is formed from shale or clay sediment that has been subjected to intense heat and pressure over millions of years. Whereas stone slate refers to roofing tiles made from various types of stone, such as granite, sandstone, or limestone, that have been cut into thin, flat pieces for use as roof tiles.
Natural Slate – pros
- Natural slates look good, offering a unique appearance, with a wide choice of colour, texture, and thickness to suite your style and taste.
- With proper maintenance, natural slate roofs can last from 75 to 150 years, making them one of the most durable roofing materials.
- Natural slate is fire-resistant, providing an added layer of protection to your home.
- Being a natural material, it has minimal environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives.
Natural Slate – cons
- Natural slate can be expensive due to its premium quality and the skill required to lay them.
- It is heavy, so the roof structure may need additional reinforcement to support the weight.
- While durable, natural slate tiles can be brittle and are prone to break if walked on or subjected to heavy impact.
Stone Slate – pros
- Stone slate tiles are incredibly durable and can last for up to 150 years, often outlasting other roofing materials.
- Stone slate is naturally fire-resistant, offering enhanced safety for your home.
- Stone slate provide a rustic and timeless appearance, adding character and charm to your home.
- Once installed, stone slate roofs typically require minimal maintenance, reducing long-term upkeep costs.
- Stone slate is a natural material with minimal environmental impact, especially when sourced locally.
Stone Slate – cons
- Stone slate roofing can be expensive to buy, they can cost more than natural slate.
- Stone slate tiles are heavy, requiring a robust roofing structure capable of supporting the additional load.
- Due to their weight and irregular shape, stone slate tiles can be challenging to install correctly. Skilled roofers are required.
- Depending on where you live and type of stone you prefer, sourcing stone slate tiles can be challenging.
- While durable, stone slate tiles can be brittle and susceptible to breakage if mishandled during installation or maintenance.
The choice between natural slate and stone slate depends on your budget, colour preference and durability requirements. In our experience, we have found that our clients appreciate the timeless beauty and long-term value that stone slate and natural slate roofs provide.