Slate roofing, made from natural slate rock, is popular for its unique aesthetic. Unfortunately, slate requires a high degree of maintenance, especially when slate shingles become loose or break. Metal roofing can mimic the look of slate without the costly maintenance. Plus, it’s highly durable, meant to last a lifetime.
To compare metal roofing vs slate roofing, you must understand the pros and cons of each. We make it easy using our metal vs slate roofing comparison chart, which you can find below.
| Feature |
EDCO Metal Roofing |
Slate Roofing |
| Moisture |
|
- High density of slate makes it waterproof.
- Fungus or mold will affect slate material.
|
| Appearance |
- Weathered shake or slate look
|
- Various sizes, thicknesses and colors
|
| Warranty |
- Lifetime non-prorated limited warranty that is transferable
- 30 to 40-year fade warranty (depending on the roofing product)
|
- Varies by manufacturer.
- Up to 100 year limited warranty from manufacturer and is material only in most cases
|
| Fire Resistance |
- Class A fire rating can be achieved when installed with a fire rated underlayment
|
|
| Installation |
- Easy to install
- Lightweight
- Interlocking panels for maximum wind resistance
- Can walk on the metal shingles without damaging the panels
|
- Installations can be complex without being trained specifically for slate roofing materials.
|
| Sustainability |
- Manufactured with at least 25% recycled steel
- 100% recyclable
|
- It is a mineral product resulting in low environmental impact
- 100% recyclable
|
| Weight |
- Approx. 45 lbs per 100 sq. feet
|
- Approx. 800 - 1,500 pounds per 100 sq. feet
|
| Durability |
- Easily acclimates to any weather condition and will not chip, crack or peel
- UL Class 4 Impact Rating, the highest impact rating available
- Resistant to mold and mildew growth
- Can help prevent snow and ice from accumulating which means Ice dams are unable to form
|
- If installed properly, life expectancy of a slate roof is up to 150 years.
- Tiles are very fragile.
- Broken tiles can be difficult to replace.
|
| Wind Resistance |
- Withstands wind speeds up to 160 mph
|
- Withstands wind speeds up to 160 mph
|
| Hail and Fade Protection |
- 30 to 40-year fade warranty (depending on the roofing product)
- Lifetime hail protection
|
|
| Maintenance |
- Little to no maintenance required
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- Significant maintenance can be required.
|
