When home or business owners are searching for the most aesthetically pleasing roof, slate roofing is often at the top of the list.

When it comes to slate roofing, you have two distinct choices, both of which offer benefits & drawbacks. Original slate roofing tiles are formed from stone, while composite slate is made from recycled plastic and rubber that are combined to look like original slate.

While both are visually appealing, there are some differences in slate roofing types that your local NJ roofer can help you sort out.

Cost

Original slate is more expensive than composite slate. Because of its extreme durability and beauty, it is one of the most expensive roofing options. Composite slate can be 25-75% less expensive than original slate.

Looks

Nothing compares to the beauty of original slate roofing. It comes in many color variations and has a timeless, elegant look. However, if original slate is not in your price range, composite slate is a close contender. Composite slate also comes in many color choices and has the same look as original slate—at a much lower cost.

Installation

Original slate may take your NJ roofing contractor longer to install than composite slate. Because it is heavier, a slate roofing expert will need to look at your original roof to make sure it does not need additional support before installation. Composite slate can often be installed on top of an existing roof, making installation much quicker.

Maintenance

Original slate is loved for its looks as well as its durability. It can last 100 years or more with almost no maintenance. It is excellent at repelling water, resisting the often harsh New Jersey weather, and is completely fireproof. Composite slate is also a low-maintenance choice. It too, is fireproof, can withstand the elements, and is actually designed to last even longer than original slate.

Sustainability

Original slate is an eco-friendly choice, since it is made from all natural materials that are recyclable. Composite slate is even more sustainable, since it is 100% recyclable, reflects heat from the sun, and helps with energy costs.

Call Today!

If you are planning to replace your roof with a material that is not only eye-catching, but long lasting and nearly maintenance free, look no further than original slate roofing. If the higher cost or increased weight of original slate is a concern, a sustainable, composite slate may be the ideal choice.

To schedule a free estimate, call LCG Roofing, your qualified NJ slate roofing contractor. Our team of experts will assess your current roof and help you determine which roofing material is the best investment—and the wisest choice for your New Jersey home. Call (609) 712-8157 today!

Incoming search terms:

• slate vs composite roof
• commercial composite slate shingles
• slate shingles made from composite material
• slate roof options
• slate roof nj price
• slate look roof material

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.

Incoming search terms:

• slate roof repair cost
• slate roof cost per square foot
• how much per square foot of roofing in nj
• cost of reclaimed slate
• how much to re slates the roof
• slate roof costs per square foot

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.

Incoming search terms:

• advantages and disadvantages of natural roof ventilation
• color shield roofing with pictures
• slate roof faq
• ESTIMATE davinci slate roof
• how much does 1 inch thick slate cost
• how much does a davinci slate roof cost

Are you looking for a roofing material that offers an upscale look for your home or business? Consider the many advantages of natural slate. Used by roofers for generations, slate tile is made of stone and formed into uniform pieces—making it not only sturdy, but naturally beautiful, as well.

While slate roofing tends to be expensive on the front end, it’s an enduring way to enhance the architectural look of any building. And your slate roof can last a century or more—making it a lasting investment that requires little maintenance.

The Undisputed Benefits of Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is an art. Your expert roofing contractor will lay individual tiles on the roof pitch, blending colors and sizes to create a look of distinction. When your roof is complete, it will be naturally water repellent, fireproof and highly resistant to the elements.

Still on the fence? Here are more reasons to choose this exceptional roofing material.

• Slate is impervious to rot and insect damage, and is naturally resistant to algae and moss buildup.
• Naturally occurring slate colors can be mixed, creating attractive—and completely unique—patterns.
• While there are many man-made, high-tech materials on the market, slate is one of the world’s longest-lasting natural roofing choices.
• When installed by a roofing professional, many slate roofs come with a 50- to 100-year warranty.

New Jersey’s Slate Roofing Experts

Ready to explore the world of slate? We invite you to schedule a home or business roofing estimate via a form or by calling 609-712-8157. Slate is heavy, so it’s important to have your home professionally assessed before making a final roofing material selection.

When you schedule a no-obligation FREE consultation with LGC Roofing, we’ll (1) evaluate your home’s structure to determine if it requires additional support for slate installation, and (2) go over color, style and design options. Contact us today and we’ll help you get the roofing you will love!

Incoming search terms:

• slate natural
• options for slate roofing

Many of our customers are telling us that they love slate roof look but can’t afford one. Now there is a solution to that problem.

LGC Roofing offers DaVinci composite slate roof system which is cheaper, easier to install and will last just as long as natural slate. This product will change people perspective on slate roofing.

There are quite a few advantages to composite slates, besides being easier on the wallet:

• The biggest issue with natural slate roof is its weight. Most houses in the US are not designed to support this kind of weight. DaVinci slates weigh less then half the weight of regular slate so they can be installed on almost any house.
• Another problem with stone slates is they can be damage very easily, by falling branches, for example. DaVinci slates are made of special kind of plastic which makes them almost unbreakable.
• Composite slates don’t need any maintenance after installation where natural slates need to be inspected at least once a year.

DaVinci slates are a real good alternative for homeowners who want the “slate roof look” without paying “slate roof price” .
Please visit our gallery to see pictures of composite slate roofs we have installed lately.

Lukasz Sobczuk, LGC Roofing

Incoming search terms:

• slate roof alternatives
• Da Vinci Slate Roofing
• good alternatives to a slate roof
• composite slate roofing
• synthetic slate roofing nj price
• alternative to slate roof