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Slate Roofing

What is Slate Roofing?

Slate roof tiles have been used for centuries as roofing materials due to their longevity and beauty. Slate is a natural roofing product made of hard rock known as metamorphic rock. The origin of this type of rock starts deep in the earth, where heat and pressure transform minerals, clay, volcanic materials and other compounds into very dense rock. 

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The Advantages of using Slate Roofing

Slate Roofing is known as one of the highest quality, longest lasting roofing materials on the market. Hard slate will last anywhere from 75 to 200 years, while soft slate will last 50 to 125 years.

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Since slate tiles are natural stones, no two tiles are exactly alike, which adds uniqueness and character to your property. And even with today’s technology, the classic look of natural stones simply cannot be fully duplicated, it is preferred by many high-end property owners.

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Roofing slates are available in many different shades such as. grey, red, black, green, and purple. Custom combinations and mottled tiles are also available. Slate roofing is also available in different sizes and thickness. They can be custom-tailored to your preference.

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Aside from its beauty, many property owners prefer slate roofing also because of the longevity it offers. professionally installed slate roofing can last for over a century with minimal maintenance, which is why it is sometimes called the “hundred year old roof.” While other materials like cedar and asphalt-shingles only last 20 to 30 years

Because slate roofing is made of natural stone tiles, it is completely fire resistant. It also has an extremely low water absorption index of less than 0.4%, for all intents and purposes, it is completely waterproof. 

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Due to its longevity and the fact that it is all natural material, slate roofing is one of the most environmentally friendly roofing options available today. 

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At Melcher Construction, we purchase all of our slates directly from the quarries. We have direct access to the highest quality grades of slate available, Our experienced team will assist you in choosing the proper slate & copper accents for your home or historical renovation to ensure its period-correct appearance.

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Slate roofing is a diminishing art form that has been a part of our roofing heritage for hundreds of years. At Melcher Construction, we proudly continue this historical tradition of slate roofing & repairs.

Get your own one-of-a kind roof! Contact Melcher Construction today to learn more about slate roofing and our other roofing services.

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Signs It’s Time To Repair Your Slate Roof

Slate roofing has a serious reputation for durability. However, even the highest-quality slate roof may eventually fail. If you have a house with old, existing slate roofing, look out for these signs of roof damage:

  • moisture damage in the attic

  • roof leaks

  • light is coming through the roof

  • loose or missing fasteners

  • there are missing or out of place slate tiles

  • there are broken or cracked slate tiles

 

Slate roofing is a big investment so it pays to have it professionally inspected regularly. The expert roofers at Melcher Construction can help you determine if your slate roof can be repaired or needs replacement. Contact us today at 215-354-6069 to learn more about our slate roofing services and to get a free quote.

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