Synthetic Slate Tiles
Slate has been used as a roofing material for hundreds of years, but its prohibitive cost limits its use today. In addition to the cost, natural slate is extremely heavy and requires a heavily reinforced roof to support its weight. It is difficult and expensive to install, but it can last for hundreds of years.
Today, there are synthetic slate tile alternatives that look like the natural product. Most are made with a combination of rubber, either virgin or recycled, and plastic that is injected into metal molds made from genuine slate. The resulting product looks identical to its natural cousin but is more cost effective. In addition, synthetic slate tile lasts for decades.
A reputable Ocean County roofing professional can provide advice and an estimate for a new synthetic slate roof, discuss alternatives and install the new roof quickly and efficiently.
Unlike natural slate, synthetic slate contains UV inhibitors that protect it from sun damage. Most synthetic slate is certified for class 4 impact resistance, the highest level, which means that it is designed to stand up to severe weather. It is also generally rated class A for fire resistance, also the highest level.
Synthetic slate weighs about a fourth of what natural slate weighs and actually weighs less than asphalt shingles.
This makes it suitable for just about any roof. It is also more durable than asphalt shingles and typically carries a warranty of 50 years. Synthetic slate can last up to 100 years, however.
Synthetic slate can be installed much like asphalt shingles with standard roofing nails and a nail gun. Unlike natural slate, synthetic slate can be cut in the field with a standard utility knife. The underlayment, flashing and other associated materials are much the same as for asphalt shingles. Maintenance and repair costs are generally less than for asphalt shingles due to the higher durability of synthetic slate.
Synthetic slate comes in a wide range of colors, including green, grey or blue, red and black. Tiles either can be uniformly sized or of varying sizes to mimic natural slate, and edging can be natural, diamond or scalloped. Slate thickness can vary between manufacturers, and thicker tiles more closely resemble natural slate.
Synthetic slate is a high end product, and it typically costs more than asphalt tiles. However, the higher initial cost of synthetic slate is more than offset by the longer lifespan and the lower repair and maintenance bills. A roofing contractor from Fortified Roofing of Ocean County NJ can answer your questions about skylights or new roofs.
Common roofing term explained by Fortified Roofing of Ocean County NJ:
Natural slate
Slate is a sedimentary rock that has been quarried and used as a roofing material for hundreds of years. It is waterproof, making it impervious to freezing and cracking when used in colder climates.
Ocean County roofing FAQ:
Is synthetic slate eco friendly?
Yes, synthetic slate is extremely friendly towards the environment. Many types of synthetic slate are manufactured from rubber recycled from tires and plastic recycled from shopping bags and bottles. Synthetic slate tiles can also be fully recycled at the end of their useful life, making them one of the most eco friendly roofing options on the market.
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