Extending Your Roof's Lifespan: Caring for Your Slate Roof
A slate roof may seem like a hefty investment at first, but it practically pays for itself over time. Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, with some slate roofs lasting for more than a century. But this doesn’t mean they don’t need maintenance.
Regardless of the type of roof, proper maintenance will always be the key to extending your roof’s lifespan and maximizing your ROI. Here are some tips on maintaining slate roofs.
Mitigating Moisture Damage
Slate roofs, being made of stone, are impervious to rot, but its substrate still is. Rainwater can still seep through damaged flashing or gaps in your roof, which can, in turn, lead to rot and mold that can quickly spread to other parts of your home.
Making sure your gutters are working properly can help lower the risk of moisture damage, and you must schedule regular periodic roof inspections and maintenance work. That way, any leaks or cracks in the more vulnerable parts of your roof can be fixed before they lead to more serious problems.
Pre-Winter Preparations
Each season comes with its own challenges for roofs. Winter, in particular, is arguably the most grueling season for roofs due to the extreme cold and the moisture produced once they thaw out. It’s best that you schedule inspections in fall.
And, while it’s common practice to ensure that you should only hire experienced and qualified contractors, a contractor’s expertise is even more important in the case of slate roofs. Foot traffic can easily wear out slate roofs. In addition to having knowledge of this crucial fact, experienced contractors who have already worked with this unique material are less likely to make unnecessary movements.
Garlock-French Corporation, a GAF Master Elite® roofing contractor with over 80 years’ worth of experience, offers a wide range of roofing services and products, including slate roofs and gutters. To request a quote, call us at (612) 722-7129, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Minneapolis, MN.
Bryan Karel leads Garlock French Roofing, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to quality in the roofing industry. With a keen focus on using high-quality materials and advanced installation techniques, Bryan ensures every roofing project not only meets but exceeds industry standards. Under his leadership, Garlock French Roofing has become synonymous with durability and aesthetic excellence, offering tailored roofing solutions that enhance the value and beauty of any property.