Slate differs from other roofing materials on several dimensions, with slate roofs having tremendous curb appeal for the correct type of home. Slate is a metamorphic rock mined in different parts of the world. Due to differences in the sand or volcanic ash colors that later transformed into slate, it comes in several colors, including gray, black, green, and mauve.

Although slate easily breaks into thin pieces, slate is heavier than other roofing materials.

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The additional weight means that a building with a slate roof must be sufficiently strong to bear the weight of the roof, which presents a problem for the typical frame home. Many structures with slate roofs also have steeper pitches, so the walls bear more of the roof’s weight. In addition to the steeper pitch, slate roofs are inappropriate for buildings where people need to walk on the roof periodically since the slate can crack or break when foot pressure gets applied to the roof after the slate is installed.

A slate roof is more expensive than other options due to the cost of the slate and the increased time and higher labor required for installation. However, a slate roof is durable, commonly lasting for 100 years or more, and since the slate is also fireproof, it adds a level of safety to the building.