How Long Does a Slate Roof Last in Illinois?

How Long Does a Slate Roof Last in Illinois

Slate roofs are growing in popularity and many Illinois’ homeowners are making the switch to tile roofing due to it’s durability and aesthetics. So, how long does a slate roof last?

Slate roofs offer many benefits, including durability, a long lifespan, and a timeless, sleek aesthetic. However, its exact lifespan will depend on various factors.

If you’re ready to install a slate roof, call Sundown Exteriors. We have years of experience with roofing and are nationally recognized for our quality installations and repairs.

Roofing Material Lifespans

A lifespan refers to how long a roof can go without a replacement. All roofs need regular maintenance and upkeep. Without proper care, a roof’s lifespan decreases significantly.

While slate roofs are costly, they have one of the longest lifespans of all roofing materials. This is an investment, as you’ll spend less on replacements and repairs over time. Unfortunately, there is no definitive number for a slate roof’s lifespan.

A roof’s lifespan can’t account for unpredictable events like natural disasters or other accidents on your roof. However, it can provide a general range that gives you an idea of what to expect.

How Long Does a Slate Roof Last?

Slate is a fine-grained rock containing minerals such as:

  • Mica
  • Chlorite
  • Quartz

Slate is sliced into slabs for roofing and is typically gray or black. However, it may change color as it adapts. This fire-resistant material is a popular roofing material. While some immediately eliminate it as an option because of the cost, it makes up for the initial investment in lifespan and durability.

While most residential roofs have a lifespan of 25-50 years, slate roofing lasts 75-200 years. If all factors are in your favor, a slate roof installation will be the last one you ever need. If you keep your house in the family, this roof will last several generations.

On the other hand, if you inherited a slate roof and it’s been over 75 years since its installation, it might be time to consider replacing it.

Factors of Slate Roof Lifespans

Factors of Slate Roof Lifespans

Slate roof lifespans are wide because their longevity depends on various factors. Some are out of your control, while you can take steps to ensure others are in your favor.

Proper Installation

Slate roofs require quality installation from experienced contractors. If installed incorrectly, their lifespan will be much shorter than expected. While you can’t install the roof yourself, you can ensure you do all the research necessary before hiring a roofing service.

Ensure the roofing contractor’s experience is extensive and reputable. You can find testimonials on most contractors’ websites.

Weather and Climate

Slate roofs are durable against normal storms, rainfall, and heat. However, even slate can’t always hold up under extreme weather conditions. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, hurricanes, or falling trees, you may expect a lifespan on the shorter end of the spectrum.

Slate Quality and Origin

Not all slates are the same. Origin usually defines quality. To assess the quality of the slate, look at:

  • The direction of the grain: It should be vertical.
  • The sound: If you knock against it, it should ring. A dull sound indicates a lack of quality.
  • Movement and material weight: If you can feel back-and-forth movement when squeezing tiles together, they may not lay evenly.
  • Natural vs. synthetic slate: Synthetic slate is more dependable.

When It’s Time for a Replacement

If you have a slate roof you’re considering replacing, assess its quality first. You can start by inspecting with your eyes: Are there a lot of broken shingles? Are there signs of rotting? How much plant growth is there?

If you aren’t sure whether it’s time for a replacement, try knocking on the slate. If it makes a dull sound, that means its quality is declining.

Upgrade to Slate Roofing With Sundown Exteriors

How long does a slate roof last? You can be sure of a roof that lasts generations with the proper care. If you’re ready to take the leap, contact Sundown Exteriors. We are roofing experts determined to leave every customer satisfied. If you’re a resident of Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, or Peoria, IL, contact us today at 309-275-6801.