When it comes to finishing a roof, there are several options to choose from. By far the two most popular choices are slate and tiles. These two roofing materials have earned their reputation for durability, aesthetics, and performance. What exactly is the difference between the two and which one is best suited to what type of roof? Read on to find out more and make the best decision for your roof!
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The Basic Difference
The fundamental distinction to be made between slate and tiles is the fact that slate is natural stone while tiles are a manufactured product. That alone, however, is not enough to determine whether either one is better for you. It will influence their looks and implementation, but in order to decide which one is the choice for your home, it’s important to go deeper.
Roof Tiles
As mentioned before, roof tiles are manufactured using sturdy materials such as concrete or clay, making them a solid option for good quality roofing materials. Due to the fact that they’re artificially made, roof tiles come in a variety of designs, formats, and colours. They can come in larger variants, which helps reduce the cost of installation. They can blend in perfectly with any type of decor thanks to their diversity. Thanks to the variety in sizes, they can work both with irregular and straightforward projects. Additionally, clay roof tiles are great for roofs with a pitch even as low as 15 degrees.
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£80.00 tax excl.
Roof Slate
Unlike roofing tiles, slate is a naturally occurring material. Though mined in larger chunks, it can be splintered into thin layers with great easy, making the resulting tile-like pieces perfect for roofing. Though most slate comes in grey, there is quite a significant selection of colours occurring naturally. The main difference is that they must be fitted to a roof with pegs and nails and, as such, require holes to be punched into them before they are fitted, so it is important to make sure that all the holes are in the right place before roof replacement or installation works start. Another thing to keep in mind is that slate tiles can only be used down to 25 degree pitches. Natural slates are also a bit more expensive than tiles, but they make up for it with lasting longer.
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£72.50 tax excl.
Other products in category: Flashing kits
£50.83 tax excl.
Which One Should I Pick?
In the end, it all comes down to personal preference. Roof tiles are definitely a cheaper solution that come in a greater variety of colours and patterns, while natural slate has increased longevity and is perfect for bringing out a more rustic quality of your home. Whichever one you choose, however, they’re both solid choices worthy of your investment!
Roof Slate and Roof Tiles FAQ
What is the biggest problem with slate roofs?
There are no serious problems with slate roofs but there aren’t many aesthetic options to choose from in this case.
Which is better – tile or slate roof?
The decision between a slate and tile roof depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Tiles are generally more budget-friendly and offer a greater variety of colors and patterns. Meanwhile, slate boasts exceptional longevity and adds a rustic appeal to your home.
Are slate roofs worth it?
Yes, they’re very durable and will work well for many years.
How long does a slate roof tile last?
Roofing slate is highly durable and can be fully functional for decades.
What is a drawback of using slate?
The only drawback can be the price, it tends to be higher than for other materials.
Which is cheaper tile or slate?
Generally, tiles are the more cost-effective option when compared to natural slate. They provide a budget-friendly roofing solution and come in various designs and colors, making them a popular choice among homeowners looking to manage costs.
Is a slate roof heavier than concrete tiles?
No, it’s heavy but the weight of these two solutions is comparable.
Is a slate roof heavier than a tiled roof?
Yes, a slate roof typically carries more weight compared to a tiled roof. The natural stone composition of slate adds extra heft to the roof structure. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your building can support this additional load if you opt for roofing slate tiles.
Is slate good for a roof?
Yes, slate works extremely well as a material for roof repairs and as a roof covering in general.
