Choosing the correct roof is an important aspect of homeownership, with the roof going a long way toward protecting the home and enhancing curb appeal. While there are many roofing products on the market, asphalt shingles and slate tile are two of the most proven and popular materials seen atop houses. If you are considering a roof replacement for your property, the following breakdown explores whether an asphalt or slate roof is the better choice for your home.
Longevity
Quality asphalt shingles will last up to 20 years with the proper care and maintenance, putting them right in line with many standard roofing products, such as wood shakes. There are even some synthetic asphalt composites that, while not asphalt in the strictest sense, maintain the classic asphalt appearance and can last for 50 years or more.
However, when it comes to longevity, few products can hold a candle to slate. Fabricated from sedimentary rock, volcanic ash, and clay, slate is arguably the most durable roofing product on the market, offering elite moisture protection and performing well in a wide variety of climates. With standard care and upkeep, there is every reason to believe that the slate roof life expectancy will be more than 100 years.
Cost
Asphalt is one of the most economical roofing choices on the market, capable of providing quality protection for the home at a price within range for most homeowners.
Slate, on the other hand, will be markedly more expensive than asphalt, as it must be carefully sourced and takes longer to fabricate. It is important to note, though, that many homeowners view the higher price tag as an equitable tradeoff for the elite longevity of a slate roof.
Curb Appeal
Both slate and asphalt roofs are capable of providing outstanding aesthetics for the home.
Slate provides a classic, sleek appearance that will stand out and enhance curb appeal in any type of neighborhood. In addition, slate’s excellent durability ensures that the roof maintains its classy appearance as the years go by.
While perhaps not as timeless as a slate roof, the best asphalt shingles can be manufactured into a variety of colors and designs that can provide a specific type of curb appeal to the homeowner. However, it is likely that greater attention to upkeep will be necessary in order for the asphalt roof to maintain its elite aesthetics.
Sustainability
Every building material must be judged on its eco-friendly features in 2021. In this respect, slate is the superior option. Slate is mined and cut with minimal processing involved. Its elite durability also means that few resources will be required for maintenance and replacement.
While asphalt is not a bad option in terms of sustainability, it does require a bit more energy than slate during the manufacturing process. In addition, a degraded asphalt roof can cause HVAC use to increase and require repair and maintenance resources, so it is important to have a higher attention to detail in terms of upkeep when choosing an asphalt roof.
Installation
Asphalt is one of the easier roofing materials to install, while most slate roofs will require the handiwork of a skilled mason with slate installation experience. Whichever the choice, it is important to remember that proper installation is a critical component of getting the most out of your roof. Jeff Guthrie, a Phoenix roof repair expert, says that although a roofing product may be under warranty, improper installation, such as poor ventilation or improper attic insulation, can negate the product’s warranty and cause the roof to perform suboptimally.
Asphalt Shingles vs Slate Tiles – Two Excellent Roofing Options
Asphalt and slate roofs are two of the most popular choices among homeowners, with each offering its own benefits. Asphalt will be the more economical choice and provide greater flexibility in terms of color and design options, while slate offers a pristine appearance and unparalleled durability. By carefully weighing the pros and cons listed above, you are sure to decide on the best roofing product for your home.
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Chuck Waltman is a Houston based home remodeler and home improvement writer. He specializes in writing content for both homeowners and home builders on various remodeling design ideas, trends and tips.