Slate Roof Myths & Facts
By Sam Everett Oct 13th, 2026
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When it comes to natural slate roofing, it is important to understand the difference between fact and fiction. Below are some of the most common misconceptions about natural slate roofing, along with the reality.
Slate Roofs Last Forever
The truth is that while natural slate is highly durable, it can begin to delaminate at the end of its anticipated life expectancy. High-quality slate, such as slate graded as ASTM ‘S1’ which is what North Country Slate offers, holds a minimum life expectancy of 75 years. Some will last well over 100 years. However, poorer quality imported or softer slate, i.e., those designated ‘S2’ or ‘S3’ are likely to flake or crumble in half that time.
Slate Roofs Are Brittle
While it’s true that slate roofs can be damaged by heavy impacts such as tree branches or improper walking on the roof. However, professional slate roofers know how to walk safely on a slate roof minimizing any damage and therefore should be the only people ever to go on a slate roof.
Slate Roofs Are Too Heavy for Most Buildings
While it is true that slate roofs are heavier than asphalt shingles, weighing about 9-10 pounds/square foot vs. 3-5 pounds/square foot for asphalt shingles. Many homes today are built with 2×8 or 2×10 roof rafters, which can support 30 pounds/square foot or more. In addition, there are ‘ lightweight’ natural roof systems that weigh less than six pounds/square foot as an alternative. These lightweight systems use only S1-rated shingles, are naturally fire-resistant, and are guaranteed for 75 years. Please note that with any roof replacement, homeowners should always have a qualified professional evaluate the structure for safety.
Slate Roofs are Maintenance-Free
No roofing system is 100% maintenance-free. Slate roofs, like every other type of roofing, should be checked periodically for maintenance. While the slate itself may not be broken or cracked, fasteners can eventually start to fail, and roof flashing can degrade. Anything specified to last 75+ years will require maintenance!
Slate Roofs Cannot Be Repaired
Occasionally slate roof tiles do crack and break. This can be caused by a myriad of reasons, including falling tree branches, improper installation, minor fissures from structural movement, and many other reasons. But don’t worry. Individual slate tiles can be removed and replaced by a qualified professional slate roofer without impacting the rest of the roof. Keep in mind too that North Country Slate will help you find a qualified slate roofer in your area.
Slate Roofs are Too Expensive
As a material, slate is more expensive than other roofing materials, including hybrid/composite slate, synthetic rubber ‘slate’ and asphalt shingles. This is due in part to the quarrying and shipping, as well as specialized labor to install a slate roof. However, when you consider the long-term value of slate, it’s one of the most cost-effective roofs you can purchase. Consider that a good natural slate roof will cost about the same as a composite or ‘rubber’ slate roof but with a life expectancy of 75 or 100 years, vs. 40 to 50 years. If you’re in your ‘forever home,’ the one-time cost for slate vs. reroofing every 15 or 20 years may be the right decision for you.
Natural Slate is No Longer Available
This is 100% false. Natural slate is currently quarried and processed throughout North America. North County Slate offers slate produced from quarries in both Quebec, Canada and Vermont / New York, USA. Our natural roofing slate comes from regions with an extensive, proven history from some of the world’s best quarries.
Natural Slate: Myth or Fact?
| MYTH | FACT | REALITY |
|---|---|---|
| TOO BRITTLE | FALSE | Strong, but requires professional roofers to walk on safely. |
| TOO EXPENSIVE | FALSE | Higher initial cost, but cheaper long-term than reroofing every 15-20 years. |
| TOO HEAVY | FALSE | Weighs 9-10 lbs/sq ft; standard roofs hold 30+ lbs/sq ft (light options are <6 lbs). |
| MAINTENANCE-FREE | FALSE | Fasteners and flashings need periodic checks over 75+ years. |
| UNREPAIRABLE | FALSE | Individual tiles can be easily replaced by a professional. |
If you are in the market for a quality slate roof, North Country Slate is your perfect partner.
- 100% Natural: Premium, durable quality.
- Weather Resistant: Highly resistant to moisture, chemicals, and completely unaffected by freeze/thaw cycles.
- Fire Safe: Non-combustible with a Class A Fire Resistance Rating.
- Long-Lasting Beauty: A North Country Slate roof adds unmatched aesthetic appeal and boasts a life expectancy of 75+ years for any home or building.
For additional information or for a list of experienced slate roofing contractors in your area, please contact us or call us toll-free at 1-800-975-2835.
By Sam Everett Oct 13th, 2026
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