Whether you are planning to put a new slate roof on your home or just repair your existing roof, choosing a roofing company is an important decision. Your roof is a major investment, and selecting a qualified, experienced roofer is vital since unpredictable and often-brutal East Coast winters can be devastating to poorly serviced slate roofs.

When you take into account that the majority of roofing costs come from labor, it becomes even more important to ensure you hire the right roofer for your home.

Hiring a Slate Roofing Contractor

Major considerations include (1) recommendations and research, (2) certifications and insurance, and (3) professionalism.

#1: Recommendations and Research

It can be difficult to find a New Jersey roofer you can trust, so begin the process with people you know. Talk to friends, neighbors, and coworkers about their past experiences—and ask for roofer recommendations. If you receive a positive referral, locate homes where the roofing company is working and drive by to check their work. You can tell a lot about your NJ slate roofing contractor by inspecting the care they take, not only in their roofing work, but also in how they treat a homeowner’s landscaping, driveway, and property.

Before hiring a roofer, you should also research their local reputation. The Better Business Bureau is an excellent resource for this research, since complaints against roofers are reported. In fact, thousands of complaints about roofers are filed with the BBB every year—more than any other industry. Over 2 million homeowners annually research roofer trustworthiness through the BBB.

#2: Certifications and Insurance

Before hiring any roofing company, make sure the company is properly licensed & insured. A reputable roofer should be able to provide you with their contractor license number and proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. For increased security and peace of mind, you can also check that your NJ slate roofer is bonded.

It’s also a good idea to vet your potential roofer through your insurance company before signing a contract. In addition to expediting payment, your insurer may have had previous experience with your roofer of choice, or may be able to provide a list of experienced roofers with whom they have worked.

#3: Professionalism

Be sure to hold potential roofers to the same standards of professionalism you would any other service provider. If a roofer is not professional enough to show up on time, appear neat and organized, and be respectful and courteous, do you want them working on a major piece of your home?

You should feel confident that the roofing contractor you select sees your home as more than just their “next project.” At a minimum, the roofer should meet timelines, take care with property and landscaping, and provide a written estimate and warranty. Any roofer that is slow to return phone calls, demands full payment in advance, or will not guarantee their work in writing is not a roofer that should get your business.

Call Today!

To schedule your slate roofing repair, restoration or new roof installation, discuss slate roofing options, or schedule a free estimate with NJ’s slate roofing experts, call or email LGC Roofing today.

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Slate is one of the most attractive and durable roofing materials on the market, but it may require occasional repairs and service.

You may not need to completely replace your slate roof if you’ve sprung a roof leak or have localized problems, but it is important to conduct a thorough inspection to determine the nature and the extent of the damage.

While it’s recommended that you leave major slate repairs to your qualified NJ roofing contractor, you can perform a DIY slate roofing inspection.

5 Tips for Proper Slate Roofing Inspection

Here are five important tips:

1. Prioritize safety. First, never walk on a slate roof to perform your inspection. Unlike asphalt shingles—which you also shouldn’t walk on if you can help it—slate roofs are smooth and don’t have the coarse surface that helps you maintain your footing. Instead, perform your inspection from a sturdy ladder, or use binoculars to make your inspection from a distance. Roof safety should always be your priority.
2. Look for evidence of weathering. If you notice that the slate appears spongy, unusually thin, has scales along the edges, is delaminated or has whitish mineral salt rings spreading across its surface, this may mean that exposure to the elements has weakened the slate and it needs replacement.
3. Check for fastener failures. If the roof has cracks, holes or has patchy or missing pieces of slate, the fasteners may be to blame. In many cases, you need only replace the missing slate or damaged areas while leaving the rest of the roof intact.
4. Recognize flashing failures. If you’re experiencing attic leaks, or if the chimney flashings appear tarry, you may have what are known as “flashing failures.” Other telltale signs of a flashing failure are corroded or leaky liners.
5. Assess the results. As a general rule of thumb: if more than one-quarter of the roof has fastener failures or more than one-quarter of the slate shingles are worn or damaged, replacing your slate roof in its entirety is an investment that you should consider making.

If your slate roof requires repair or replacement, LGC Roofing contractors are among New Jersey’s most trusted roofers. Offering slate roofing installation and repair services for both residential and commercial buildings, we provide affordable inspection, repair and replacement services that help you protect your property investment while achieving beautiful results. Call today to schedule your consultation!

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Choosing the right roofing material for a commercial or industrial application is critically important.

While aesthetic appeal is important to commercial building owners and property managers, safety, affordability and durability are primary concerns when it comes to commercial roofing today.

Understanding the advantages as well as the limitations of commercial roofing materials is the first step toward making the best, most cost-effective choice for your facility.

Best Commercial Roofing Materials on the Market Today

Hot Mop Roofing

This type of asphalt roofing is a relatively inexpensive option and is a good choice for roofs with flat slopes, so long as they are designed to promote proper drainage. Hot mop roofing is created by applying melted asphalt to a roof surface, then using specialized equipment to spread it evenly and flatten it so that it seals correctly.

Hot mop roofing must be applied properly in order to maximize its lifespan, so it’s essential to work with an experienced commercial roofing contractor if you’re interested in this type of roof.

There are some drawbacks to hot mop roofing, though. First, it’s not particularly aesthetic—but it can be treated to improve its appearance. In addition, the application process releases moderate levels of air pollutants, which is undesirable for Green builders.

Metal Roofing

While it tends to range more toward the expensive end of the commercial roofing material spectrum, metal roofing is an outstanding choice for numerous reasons. Metal roofs are extremely durable and long-lasting, and require very little in the way of maintenance.

Metal roofing also offers outstanding fire and weather resistance, characteristics that make it a popular and safe choice for commercial and industrial buildings. Today’s metal roof suppliers offer a range of colors, textures and types, as well—so you can choose a metal roof that suits your building’s architectural appearance.

Concrete Tile Roofing

Like metal roofing, concrete tile roofing is inflammable, and naturally resists corrosion, pests and weather. Concrete tile roofing is available in an increasingly wide range of styles, textures and colors, giving you plenty of options if you prefer a certain look. However, unlike metal roofing, it is not recyclable, and therefore comes at a higher environmental cost.

Slate Roofing

The many advantages of slate roofing include excellent fire resistance; slate is also resistant to insects and corrosion, and has a very long life expectancy that’s relatively maintenance free. However, if you choose slate roofing for a commercial project, you will need to perform a careful structural assessment, since slate is heavy and adds a significant amount of weight to the building.

Whish Material is Right For Your Project?

To select the most economical, functional commercial roofing material for your business, contact LGC Roofing. Our commercial roofers are experts in hot mop, metal, concrete and slate roofing, and are happy to explain the pros and cons of commercial roofing material options—so you can make an educated choice for your facility.

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Dubbed “100 year roofs” for their durability, slate roofs actually have service lives of 60 to 200 years.  Chosen for their aesthetically pleasing patterns and details, among other benefits, slate roofs have been around for centuries and are prominently found on homes, churches, institutions and government buildings.

Because of the unique craftsmanship of slate roofs on New Jersey buildings and residences, many owners choose to repair or restore these roofs, rather than replace them, to preserve their beauty and historical value.

There are three main reasons why slate roofing requires repair:

1. Cracked, broken, misaligned or missing slates
2. Deteriorated metal flashing 
3. Improper workmanship during previous repairs

Given the high cost of slate materials, homeowners should only hire a certified, experienced NJ roofing contractor to ensure that slate roof restoration is done right.

Regular maintenance and annual inspections can also extend the life of your roof.

Slate Roofing Repair: Cost-Effective Alternatives to Replacement

If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace, ask yourself:

• When was the roof installed? Find records of the roof’s age and type. Not all slates are the same. Where the rocks were quarried may help to determine the lifespan of the slate.
•  Are the slates misaligned or sliding out of position? If yes, the metal fasteners used to hold the slates in place may have corroded and may need to be replaced.
• Are there active leaks? Most roof leaks occur because of problems with gutters, valleys and flashings. Even the smallest hole can allow a large amount of water to accumulate. These leaks can often be fixed while salvaging the slates.
• How many slates are damaged or missing?  If 20- to 30-percent of the slates on the roof are damaged, it would less expensive for a slate roof replacement than a repair.
• Are the slates delaminating (flaking or crumbling), or is there powder on the underside? If so, your roof needs to be replaced.

Need Slate Repairs? Hire Professional Roofing Contractors

Working with slate roofing requires advanced skills, so don’t trust just anybody to restore or replace your slate roof. Trust the knowledge and expertise of LGC Roofing: a family-owned company that has been installing and repairing slate roofs for over 20 years.

Our work is guaranteed and our slate roofing expertise is unrivaled. Call us today for a free slate roofing restoration estimate, and learn how we can help you preserve your investment!

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Spring is here, and with it comes the opportunity to perform upkeep on your home.

After long winters, many homeowners find that in addition to general maintenance, time and the elements have taken their tolls on one of the most important pieces of the house: the roof.

The key to maintaining a sound slate roof is diligent maintenance and inspection!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slate Roofing Installation

Age, wear and tear, and appearance affect the way you feel about your roof, so if you’re looking to update or replace your slate roof, take some time to consider the options.

If you’re a homeowner looking for slate roof replacement or repair, you may have a few questions. Here are some of the most frequently-asked questions about slate roofing installation.

FAQ #1: What are the benefits of slate roofing?

Slate is a great option for homeowners interested in a safe-low maintenance roof. They are beautiful, eco-friendly, and protect your home from damage.

Because the material is natural, every slate roof is unique.

Slate ages gracefully over time, and requires no cleaning. Maintenance and repairs are inevitable, but when it comes to repair, removing it causes minimal damage to the environment.

Unlike other roofing materials, slate requires no plastic, asphalt or fiberglass, making it safer to return to the earth and a great eco-friendly roofing option. Additionally, slate roofs offer long-standing protection against leaks, fires, and wind damage. With the appropriate maintenance, the overall reliability of this natural material is ideal for roofs intended to last for the long haul.

FAQ #2: How much does slate roofing cost?

Depending on the thickness of the material, slate roofing can range anywhere from $10-$40 per square foot. Factors to take into cost considerations include building height and the pitch of the roof. Generally, installed slate roofs cost between $10 and $20 per square foot.

FAQ #3: Do I need special framing or structure for slate?

The ideal structural setting for a slate roof is a solid deck with 16” on center framing. Slate is a heavier material, weighing approximately 800 to 1,000 pounds for a 10‘ x 10’ square. This varies by thickness: with 3/8” slate weighing around 1,500 pounds per square, each 1/8” of thickness adds an additional 500 pounds.

Weak structures will lead to a weak roof, so if you want to protect your investment, be sure your supports can handle the material. Most homes are built to handle wind and snow loads heavier than slate; if you are unsure, consult with a roofing professional.

FAQ #4: How do I maintain and repair my slate roof?

An annual inspection of your roof will help you keep it in the best possible state. Homeowners can do this themselves by looking for damaged or missing pieces of slate.

If you are looking to repair slate, contact a professional. Correct installation is the foundation for a solid roof, and mistakes can be costly to the homeowner. Depending on the age of your roof, check with local contractors for inventories of reclaimed slate for a uniform look, or purchase new squares.

Never coat slate: adding sealants, paints, or any other coverings (including shingles) will expedite the aging of the roof.

While the initial cost of slate roofing may discourage you, the long-term savings offer sound reassurance that your investment will be worthwhile. If you are ready to invest in a long-term slate roofing solution, work only with experienced professional contractors like LGC Roofing. For more information on slate roofs, or for a no-obligation quote, contact us at (609) 712-8157 or request a slate roofing installation estimate online.

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When New Jersey goes through a tough winter, weather-related roof damage is almost sure to follow. Slate roofing, in particular, can be put under a lot of stress due to snow, ice and hail, requiring slate roofing repairs in the warmth of spring.

NJ roofing contractors are aware that many homeowners are do-it-yourselfers, and are comfortable making their own slate roofing repairs. Learning how to take care of winter roof problems properly can save you a lot of time and money.

Common Winter Slate Roof Damage?

Slate roofing repairs are needed when the roofing materials are cracked, broken or indented due to the external force of hail or ice, or if you experience leakage into your home. The slates can also become damaged from abnormalities in the wood decking beneath the slates—or from faulty nails.

If you are not sure if your roof is, in fact, damaged from inclement weather, call LGC Roofing, your local NJ roofing contractor to schedule your post winter roof inspection.

Do-It-Yourself Slate Roofing Repairs

Slate roofing repairs can be performed tile by tile without replacing the entire roof. The best-case scenario is using leftover slate that you’ve been storing in your garage; the materials blend in nicely without making an eyesore out of your roof.

If this is not an option, order slate that presents as close a match in color, shape and age as possible. Gently lift up the slate above the one to be replaced to allow easy access. Remove the nail and the damaged slate, and re-hang the new slate before returning the higher slate to its previous position.

Slate is secured to the roof with nails, but the each individual piece hangs, rather than sits, snugly against the surface. When replacing slates, avoid driving the nails into the slate too deeply or you may incur cracks or stress that is not yet visible to the eye—but may develop later. It’s also important to hammer the nail enough so that the slate that rests on top of the tile you’re replacing doesn’t chip or crack. Galvanized nails do the job, but may not last as long as your slate, requiring premature replacement of both components.

When Hiring a Professional Roofer is the Right Move

Winter roof problems can seem overwhelming if home repair is not your strong suit. LGC Roofing is more than happy to help, from offering a no-obligation free slate repair estimate to handling your slate roof restoration or complete replacements.

Call LGC Roofing today at (609) 712-8157 with questions about your NJ slate roof.

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If you are the proud owner of a home with a slate roof, you enjoy exceptional advantages that other roofing types just can’t match. Slate is incomparably beautiful, lending your home an air of classic elegance and dignity (just look at our recent slate installation project photos).

You can also rest in the knowledge that the slate tile on your roof will never burn, and that it’s one of the most low-maintenance roofing options on the market. Its superior resistance to mold and mildew makes it exceptionally long-lasting, as well—often serving for a century or more.

Slate Roofing Restoration: Saving Tile & Money

Even the most durable roofs need repair at some point, though. If you need restoration or repair of your slate roof, contact the LGC Roofing experts. A family-owned business for more than 25 years, we specialize in the proper installation of all types of slate roofing.

What causes slate roofs to deteriorate?

There are a number of considerations that must be taken into account when inspecting a slate roof for repair, including flashing quality, nail and fastener type—and quality of the tiles, themselves. Often, the slate tiles have simply outlasted the other components. That’s not surprising when you consider that a galvanized nail can rust in 30 years, while slate can last for 150 years.

Instead of complete replacement consider slate restoration

A slate roof is not inexpensive, so you’ll want to avoid unnecessary costs. Any roofing contractor you choose to hire should do everything they can to reclaim slates that are in good condition and only replace those that cannot be reused.

Here’s the process LGC Roofing follows (and your roofing contractor should to):

1. carefully remove each slate in the work area,
2. inspect it for damage,
3. reinstall each tile that is in good condition , and
4. replace broken or missing tiles.

When it comes to slate roofing, material & labor costs are higher than with most other roofing materials out there. Why add to the cost by replacing the roof entirely. Our restoration process will save you considerable replacement expense, and reduces material waste.

Our highly skilled and conscientious craftsmen understand that slate roofing is an art as much as it is a science, and will treat your investment with the respect it deserves. You should be also be aware that the most common reasons for slate roofing problems are poor repair jobs.

Trust your slate roof to us to prevent costly future issues.

Contact LGC Roofing via a form, or call 609-712-8157 for a free slate repair estimate. We also offer coupons and specials, which can save you up to 15 percent off a repair job of $250 or more.

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Homeowners across the state are realizing the indisputable value of slate when selecting their home’s new roof. Slate is a beautiful, natural and eco-friendly way to cover any structure—lasting between 50 and 125 years or more. Because of slate’s unique color blends and timeless style, the roofing material is seen not only on New Jersey’s historic buildings, but on a variety of more contemporary structures, as well.

Maintaining Your Slate Roof

One of the reasons that homeowners choose slate roofing is because it withstands weathering and requires little maintenance. However, it’s not uncommon for older slate roofs to deteriorate and require repairs or even total restoration—and here’s why.

• Your slate’s life depends largely on its style and mineral makeup. Some slate roofing materials are prone to softening and crumbling after years of weather exposure, while others remain hard for 100 years or more. A slate roofing expert should be able to tell you which types of slate material will last longest and resist cracking or leaking.
• It’s natural for slate pieces on aging homes to occasionally break or fall off. The sooner you notice these missing slate pieces, the greater chance you have of simply repairing your roof rather than replacing it. Missing or cracked slates may damage your roof’s infrastructure and lead to costly interior leaks. If you take time to replace these failing pieces quickly, you’ll extend the life of your roof and protect your flooring, drywall and furnishings.
• Many slate roofs fail because they were not installed with high-quality decking and sheathing materials. The best roof deck is made of lumber and battens that are planed or rough-sawn, and measure at least .75 to 1.5 inches in thickness. Plywood, particle board or cheaply laminated wood should not be used, since your roof will last the longest when solid (rather than synthetic or glued) boards are used. If your existing roof was installed with a substandard decking material, contact a New Jersey slate roof specialist to inquire about the most affordable repair or replacement option.
• Good quality flashing and proper installment is also a key to ensuring that your slate roofing enjoys a lengthy lifespan. If you’re experiencing frequent leaks, your flashing may not be the correct gauge—or it may have been improperly aligned, secured or sealed. Single pieces of flashing are usually easily replaced, but multiple pieces may require the expertise of a roofing contractor so the slate is not compromised during repair.

Slate Roofing Repair and Restoration Tidbits

It’s important to remember that walking on your slate roof requires extreme care, and should only be done when absolutely necessary. If you—or a negligent roofing contractor—does not take the time to protect your slate, individual pieces may crack, become dislodged or even break off entirely.

Before anyone climbs on your roof to inspect it, make sure they (A) use a padded ladder, (B) utilize roof scaffolds, roof jacks and planks, and (C) avoid placing your full weight on delicate planes of slate.

Finally, while slate roofs are a beautiful, enduring way to protect your home, you should still have them inspected by an experienced slate expert at least once a year.

Slate roofs that are properly maintained are likely to last for fifty years or more—and to improve the curb appeal and architectural value of your New Jersey Home for decades to come. For more information about scheduling your slate roof repair or annual inspection call LGC Roofing today at 609-712-8157.

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We really love Slate and decided to create a website dedicated specifically to slate roofing named, simply, Slate Roofing NJ.

We have been approached by customers who want choices beyond shingle, the most common roofing material used in the US.

Slate Roofing NJ covers the benefits of natural and composite slate roofing, basic maintenance and repair tips, FAQs and more. We also included a gallery of our latest slate installation & replacement projects in NJ.

We encourage you to visit us at Slate Roofing NJ today!

We’d love to learn what else you would want to see there. Any feedback is welcome.

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Available in hundreds of sizes, textures and colors, slate roofing is a beautiful & durable shield for your home or business. Additionally, slate roofing is quarried from the earth, making it a natural, recyclable way to protect any structure.

Like other roofing materials, however, slate has advantages and disadvantages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Slate Roofing

Before making a roofing choice, refer to the following list of FAQs to decide whether slate should be your material of choice.

• Where does slate come from?

  Depending on what type of slate you choose, much of it comes from areas around the U.S. Countries like Brazil, China and India also produce high-quality slate, but it’s important to ensure that it has been finished properly so it can be easily applied to your roof. Your New Jersey Roofing Contractor can recommend slate types that are affordable, functional and simple to install.

• What colors are available in slate roofing?

  Slate comes in a number of muted and vibrant colors, depending on your preference and desired curb appeal. Common colors include mottled, solid and variegated greens, purples, reds, grays and blacks. Remember, some slates will change in color as they’re exposed to the elements. If this is a concern, ask your roofer whether the roof you select will remain the same color as it ages. “Unfading slate” will change little after it’s quarried, but “weathering” and “semi-weathering” forms will change appearance with time. Color changes, however, will not impact the longevity of your roof.

• How thick is roofing slate?

  Generally speaking, standard slate roofs range from 1/4-inch to 5/16-inch in thickness. However, more expensive slates are available in 3/8-inch to 1-inch or more. Ask the highly qualified LGC roofing team about the thickness that is best for your application and budget.

• How much will my slate roof cost?

  Slate roof installation varies broadly in cost. Depending on slate thickness, weight and ease of installation, your roof may cost anywhere from $9/square foot to $40/square foot. Call LGC to learn more about slate roofing options and obtain a slate installation cost estimate for your home or business.

• Why should I install a slate roof?

  Slate roofing comes with a number of features and benefits that are attractive to roofers and building owners. First, slate is one of the most leak-proof and fireproof roofing materials on the market. And, since slate roofs come with warranties of up to 50 years, home and business owners benefit from long-term reliability that asphalt shingles simply can’t provide.

  In addition to their attractive, aesthetic look, slate roofs are also environmentally friendly. There are no petrochemical products involved in preparing slate pieces, so slate can be safely returned to the land when it’s no longer useful. This also reduces the waste stream by reducing landfill debris.

If you’re considering slate products for your home or business roof, call the professionals at LGC Roofing. We specialize in slate, metal and shingle roof installation and repair, and our owner is available on-site to ensure the quality of every job. Call us at 609-712-8157 today to schedule a no-cost consultation or inquire about financing.

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