Slate Roofing - MARS Restoration

Slate of the Art: Mastering the Craft of Natural Slate Roofing

Aug 31, 2024 | Blog, Slate Roofing

When it comes to roofing materials, natural slate is the crème de la crème—elegant, durable, and undeniably stylish. It’s the roofing equivalent of a classic sports car: impressive, high-maintenance, and with a few quirks. If you’re considering a natural slate roof for your property in Maryland, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Let’s explore what makes slate such a standout choice and how to handle its unique challenges with finesse.

The Allure of Natural Slate

Natural slate roofs are like a fine wine—they get better with age. These roofs are celebrated for their stunning appearance and extraordinary lifespan. Made from metamorphic rock, slate tiles offer a range of rich hues and textures, adding a timeless charm to any building. The durability of slate means it can withstand the test of time, often lasting over a century if properly maintained. But, like any luxury item, it comes with its own set of demands.

Unique Considerations for Slate Roofs

Installation Expertise

Installing a natural slate roof isn’t a DIY weekend project. Slate is a finicky material that requires precise handling and expert installation to avoid problems down the line. An improper installation can lead to issues such as leaks or premature degradation. To get it right, you need a contractor who’s well-versed in the nuances of slate roofing. At MARS Restoration, we specialize in slate roof installation, ensuring that every tile is placed with meticulous care and expertise.

Structural Strength Matters

Slate is not just heavy—it’s heavy with a capital H. This means your building’s structure needs to be robust enough to support it. This is particularly important in Maryland, where historical buildings might not be up to the task. Before diving into a slate roof installation, we conduct a thorough structural assessment to ensure your property can handle the weight. Our team at MARS Restoration will make sure your building is up to par, so you can enjoy the beauty of slate without any structural worries.

Maintenance Musts

While slate is durable, it isn’t maintenance-free. Regular inspections are essential to keep your slate roof in peak condition. Issues like cracked or displaced slates can lead to leaks if not addressed promptly. Routine maintenance will help prevent these problems and extend the life of your roof. At MARS Restoration, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans to keep your slate roof in top shape, allowing you to enjoy its beauty with peace of mind.

Weather Resilience

Maryland’s diverse climate can be tough on any roofing material, but slate is particularly resilient. It can handle extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation better than many alternatives. However, slate isn’t immune to weather-related issues. For example, ice dams during the winter months can cause trouble if not managed properly. Regular inspections and proactive care are key to ensuring your slate roof stands up to Maryland’s weather.

Cost Considerations

The initial investment in a slate roof can be higher compared to other materials, but it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. Slate’s longevity means fewer replacements and repairs, making it a cost-effective choice over time. When evaluating the cost, remember that you’re investing in a roof that can last for generations, adding significant value to your property.

Let MARS Restoration Be Your Slate Specialist

Navigating the world of natural slate roofing can be a bit like learning to drive a high-performance sports car—it takes expertise and care. At MARS Restoration, we’re here to guide you through every step, from installation to ongoing maintenance. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your slate roof is not only beautiful but also durable and reliable. Don’t let the complexities of slate roofing slow you down. Contact MARS Restoration today for a free inspection, and let’s make your roofing dreams a reality. Reach out now to get started!

What Will a New Slate Roof Cost in Maryland?

Jun 6, 2023 | Blog, Costs, Maryland, Slate Roofing

If you are looking to replace your current roofing material with something that will stand out, look no further than slate roofing. The benefits are many and the beauty is unmatched. MARS Restoration in Maryland is the expert you need when it comes to slate roofing.

But, how much will slate roofing cost? In Maryland, the cost of a new slate roof could be between $300 and $600 per square. One square is equal to 100 square feet. Of course, this figure depends on the size of the home, the tear-off of the old material, and any additional costs determined by the contractor to properly complete the job. MARS Restoration in Maryland is the best roofing contractor to speak with regarding slate roofs. Our team of professionals has the training and experience to properly install your slate roof with ease and confidence.

slate roof installation cost Maryland

Here is a quick breakdown of what the beginning cost could be for your sized home.

15 square roof – $4,500 to $9,000
20 square roof – $6,000 to $12,000
25 square roof – $7,500 to $15,000
30 square roof – $9,000 to $18,000

What Exactly are the Two Types of Slate?

Natural

Natural slate is a popular material simply due to its durability and long-lasting life. The natural slate is mined and cut into square tiles that are installed on your roof one at a time. You may have to wait until the slate is available since it is sometimes hard to come by. The weight of natural slate can be heavy on the frame of the home. Before fully deciding on this particular product, it would be wise to discuss the structure with your roofing contractor.

Synthetic

Synthetic is a fraction of the cost of natural. Synthetic slate shingles are made of recycled materials such as asphalt and rubber polymers created to mimic natural slate. Chisel marks are included to give it a look of authenticity. The beauty of this product is that it is lightweight so additional support in your home is not needed.

The Differences Between Natural and Synthetic

slate roof cost Maryland

Eco-Friendly

A huge difference between natural and synthetic slate is the fact that real slate is not recyclable or reusable at the end of its life and can end up in our landfills. Synthetic slate, however, can be reused for a variety of uses. Here are a few ideas on how to reuse synthetic slate:

Edging around a garden
Pond lining
Outdoor mural
Plant markers
Birdhouse

Lightweight

As noted above, natural slate is quite heavy and when placed on a roof, may need extra support built into the frame of the home. It can cost nearly 300 pounds per square, which is a 10ft x 10ft area. Synthetic is approximately half that weight. That alone makes the cost more budget-friendly when compared to natural slate.

Cost

That leads us to the price of synthetic vs natural. Natural slate can cost nearly twice as much as synthetic slate roofing. Again, considering the weight factor, the structure of the home may need extra support so that is an added fee as well. Natural slate tends to break off or become brittle therefore repairs are more often when compared to synthetic. Again, speak with the professionals at MARS Restoration for an accurate cost breakdown.

Long Lasting

Synthetic slate tiles are fire resistant, impact resistant, and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as severe winds, strong storms, and beating hail. Natural slate tiles may have a difficult time keeping up with the durability that their counterpart can withstand. ‘Due to the strength offered by synthetic, the life span is nearly 100 years. This roofing material will most likely outlive the home itself!

When it comes to slate, the beauty and appearance are stunning, however, the differences can make one stand out stronger than the other. Synthetic is lighter, more cost-effective, and easier to maintain than natural.

Contact MARS Restoration in Maryland to help define other amazing factors that make up slate roofing. We are the roofing experts ready to assist you, with slate or any other type of roofing material. We have been serving the local area for years and are ready to help you with our expertise and excellent customer service. We are anxious to learn of your vision for a home and roofing project. Call us today and let’s discuss how a slate roof, whether natural or synthetic, can help you stand out from the other homes on the block.

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