Slate Shingles VS Asphalt Shingles – Which roof is better for Chicago?
Slate roofs are stronger and more aesthetically pleasing, but asphalt shingles come in more colors, so how do you decide? Moreover, is a slate roof better than shingles in Illinois? There is no universal answer because everyone makes an individual decision according to their needs and wishes. So now you will learn about the main difference between slate and asphalt shingles and how to choose between them. Remember, the choice of roofing material is crucial as the type of material defines the roof’s durability and strength, as well as numerous other parameters.
Material Characteristics – Slate Shingles VS Asphalt Shingles
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Slate Roof VS Asphalt Shingles Cost
- Slate roofs – Material – $10 – $30 per square foot, labor – $130 – $238 per roofing square, total installation cost – $20,000 – $60,000 (average $40,000).
- Asphalt shingles – Material – $1 – $2 per square foot, labor – $2 – $3 per square foot, total installation cost – $5,700 – $12,000 (average $8,800).
Although the initial local cost of a slate roof is significantly higher, the long-term costs and value of slate can be more favorable. Slate roofs typically last 75-200 years, compared to 20-30 years for asphalt shingles. This means that a slate roof can last several shingle roof replacements.
Asphalt Shingles VS Slate Roof Tiles Durability and Lifespan
What about the durability of synthetic slate roof vs asphalt shingles? Slate tiles are very durable and resistant to weather conditions and physical impact. Usually serves 75-200 years. Asphalt shingles are less durable and vulnerable to extreme temperatures and physical impact. Usually serves for 15-30 years. So, slate tile roofing is more durable and resistant to weather conditions and physical impacts than a bitumen roofing system.
Asphalt Shingles and Slate Tile Aesthetic Considerations
Let’s see how asphalt and slate shingles look different in Chicago Metropolitan Area houses:
- Colors – Slate tiles have limited but natural colors. Shingles have a wide range of colors.
- Texture – Slate tiles have a unique, natural texture. Shingles can mimic other materials.
- Style – Slate tiles are better suited for traditional and modern styles. Shingles are more versatile.
If you value a natural, elegant look, slate tiles may be a better choice. On the other hand, shingles may be more suitable for design flexibility and are a more affordable option. That is quite good for the Chicago suburbs. If you answered yourself: “Could a roofer installer close to me help with the decision?”, now you can do it.
Slate Roof VS Asphalt Shingle Roofing Installation Process
To make the right choice, you need to know some of the nuances of installation in IL:
Slate Roofs in Chicago
Slate tiles are heavy (up to 1,500 pounds per 100 square feet), requiring careful evaluation and reinforcement of the roof structure. This raises the complexity and cost of installing slate tiles. It may not seem appealing to residents of Chicago, yet absent it, near me, roofers will be unable to create a beautiful and safe roof.
Tiles need to be precisely cut and fitted on site, and each tile must be securely fastened with proper spacing. The process is time-consuming due to the need to individually lay each tile.
This is because when installing the slate there are chances that the coating may become soft due to high temperatures and thus easily damaged. Slate’s strength weakens at low temperatures and this may lead to cracking.
Asphalt Shingles
The installation of asphalt shingles for roof contractors near me is relatively simple, less labor intensive, and takes a few days for an average home. Asphalt shingles are lighter and easier to handle, allowing for faster installation.
Another feature to be considered in the roof design is the ventilation of the roof in order to avoid overheating of the roof and the formation of ice dams. In hot weather, the sealant on the tiles can become too sticky, making it difficult to work. Even in the process of elongating the life of the material, it is also important to adhere to the right procedures.
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Maintenance and Care of Roofings in Illinois
Let’s start with slate. Well, slate roofs need to be inspected twice a year (in spring and fall) to detect cracks, breaks, or missing tiles. Walking on a slate roof is not recommended as it can damage the tiles. Close to me, slate roof repairs should be trusted by Chicago roofing contractors because of their delicacy and the specialized skills required to replace tiles and maintain elements such as metal parts.
Asphalt shingles also need inspections twice a year and after major storms. You can safely walk on such a roof, and inspect damage such as cracks or missing pieces. Homeowners can make minor repairs themselves, but professional inspections remain advisable.
Slate roofing has the following common problems and solutions:
- Problems – Cracks, broken tiles, unstable tiles, leaks.
- Solutions – Damaged tiles need to be professionally replaced. Regular maintenance of the gutters and periodic inspections will help to avoid problems.
Asphalt shingles may present a slightly different challenge:
- Problems – Swirling, cracks, blistering, missing tile pieces, moss and algae.
- Solutions – Replace damaged areas, improve attic ventilation, and clean the roof regularly.
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Environmental Impact of Slate Roof VS Shingle Roofing Options
Slate roofs last for 100-200 years, which reduces the need for frequent replacements and environmental impact. In addition, slate is a natural, non-toxic material that requires minimal processing. Slate tiles can also be reused, which minimizes waste.
Asphalt shingles last for 20-30 years, which of course requires frequent replacement and increases the amount of waste. However, the local production of shingles from petroleum products leads to the emission of greenhouse gasses and pollutes our environment. Therefore, shingles are one of the biggest contributors to the waste at landfills, and it can take 400 years for shingles to biodegrade.
Slate Tiles:
Environmental benefits:
- Natural material without the use of chemicals.
- High durability (75-200 years), which reduces the need for replacement.
- Fully recyclable.
- Provides better energy efficiency.
Environmental disadvantages:
- Higher initial environmental impact due to extraction and transportation.
- Heavier, may require roof reinforcement.
Asphalt Roof:
Environmental benefits:
- Some recyclability.
- Lighter, requires less roof reinforcement.
Environmental disadvantages:
- Short service life (15-30 years), resulting in more frequent replacement and increased waste.
- Significant environmental pollution due to production using petroleum products.
- Non-degradable, remains in landfills for hundreds of years.
- Release of harmful substances into the soil and groundwater.
- Increased heat pollution in cities.
- The impermeable surface increases water runoff and erosion.
Conclusion
Well, our slate vs asphalt shingles guide is coming to an end and we hope that you will now be able to make the right roofing solution. Remember, in Chicago Areas slate shingles are more durable and aesthetically pleasing, but more expensive and heavier. Shingles are cheaper and lighter but have a shorter service life and less resistance to weather conditions.
If budget is important to you, shingles may be a better option. If you are looking for a long-term investment and high aesthetics, slate tiles may be more suitable. Remember that, you find the best roof contractor in Chicago near you – we can give you a helping hand! Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice!
