Why Slate Roofs Are a Fantastic Choice for Homeowners Who Value Quality and Longevity

We’ve all been there – home renovation can feel like a never-ending battle. The structural decisions alone can be overwhelming, with so many pros and cons attached to each option that understanding which solution to choose can be daunting. If a roof is in your home renovation plans, you may have heard of slate roofing – but what makes it so special compared to other types of roofing? Allow us to explain.


Slate roofing, also known as slate tiles or slates, is a roofing material made from natural stone that is known to outlast traditional roofing materials by centuries. The stones are split by hand into thin, flat pieces that are used to roof structures. While this roofing solution has been a classic choice for hundreds of years, its modern popularity has seen a surge in the past few decades – inspiring both architects and homeowners to notice its impressive features.

Why You Should Choose Slate For Your Roof

Slate roofing is an excellent and reliable roofing material for those looking for something that will last for the long term. It is known for its charming and vintage aesthetics, as well as its durability and longevity. Here’s what you need to know about slate roofing: 


Longevity

Slate roofing lasts longer than other types of roofs due to its unique composition. Natural slate is hailed for its impressive resistance to deterioration, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want a roof that will last for decades – even centuries, in some cases. Traditional slate roofs can last twice as long as other types of roofs, such as asphalt shingles or metal sheeting. 


Weather Resistant

Adding to the longevity of slate roofs is their impressive resistance to weathering. Slate is uniquely suited to handle heavy downpours and extreme temperatures. Without the need to replace shingles or shingle pieces due to weathering, slate roofs can last longer than other types of roofs despite being exposed to the same weather conditions.


Fire Resistance

Slate is its own natural fire protection system. Natural slate is not flammable, giving it an incredible edge over other types of roofs with their combustible materials. Without fear of catching on fire, slate roofs offer fire protection to buildings and to their occupants, even in the face of powerful wildfires or electrical fires. 


Aesthetics

Slate roofing is known for its classic and timeless look. Its deep gray, blue, and black color tones are often accompanied by other earthly hues, such as green, yellows, and reds. Slate roofing mixes and matches nicely with many types of architecture, from traditional Victorian buildings to more modern buildings with more unique roofing needs. Not to mention, the unique color and texture of slate roofing help buildings stand out from their neighbors, providing a unique and dynamic look. 


Low Maintenance

Slate roofs require low maintenance and virtually no special treatment to stay in top condition. While other roofing materials may need occasional adjustments and maintenance, slate roofs remain strong and resilient without the extra attention. This can save homeowners a lot of time and money in the long run when it comes to the cost of maintaining that roof.


Easy to Repair

Slate roofing is also exceptionally easy to repair – this is largely due to the relatively thin individual pieces that when laid, create the roofing slate. In cases of slates breaking or deteriorating, the roofer needs only to replace the affected piece, which cuts down on the repair costs compared to other roofing solutions that call for extensive maintenance. This characteristic of slate roofing also makes it difficult to notice when individual tiles have been replaced – another significant appeal of slate compared to other roofing materials.

A Slate Roof is an Investment

It’s no secret that there’s often a large expenditure involved in any home improvement project, and roofing is certainly no exception to this. When comparing the price per square foot of slate roofing with other roofing options, you’ll notice that slate roofing is significantly more expensive. Weighing up the overall cost with the expected lifetime of the roof can go a long way in helping you to make an informed decision. 


In short, slates may come with a higher price tag, however, it’s important to remember that you obtain greater longevity with slate roofing, ultimately contributing to its higher performance per dollar in the long run.

Slate roofing definitely has several advantages and presents itself as a classic, timeless choice. Especially if you are looking for a roof that can last you decades and will stay in amazing condition throughout the years, slate is the perfect option for you. To make sure the job is done properly, it is important to keep in mind that a highly experienced and competent roofer is necessary. 


At G. Helms Construction, our slate roofers take care to properly stage a slate roof in order that damage from being on the roof is minimized. Contact us today at (802) 989-2783 for more information about slate roofs in Starksboro, Bristol & Vergennes, VT!

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Roof for Your Home: Asphalt Shingles

February 27, 2023
Having a high-quality roof on your home is essential for protecting you and your family from the elements, as well as increasing the overall value of your home. When considering a roof material for your home, it is important to understand the different types of materials available and how to choose the best one for your home. In this blog post, we will discuss one popular roof material option, asphalt shingles, and their many benefits. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and designs, making them a great option for giving your home an attractive and unique look. Additionally, they are relatively lightweight and easy to install, meaning you can get your new roof in place quickly and at a low cost. At G.Helms Construction , we specialize in the installation of asphalt shingles for the Starksboro, VT area, drawing from the expertise of our staff and utilizing the highest quality materials available. We are committed to providing the best results possible and ensuring that you have a durable and attractive roof that will look great and perform optimally for many years to come. Continue reading to learn more about asphalt shingles and the many benefits they bring.

Elevate Exteriors through Window Trim and Enhance Your Property's Visuals

February 8, 2023
Window trim is an easy and cost-effective way to improve the look and feel of your property. Utilizing the element allows you to breathe new life into your home or business, adding a modern and elegant look that can really set it apart from the rest. It’s an excellent way to add both style and charm that can be used for both decorating and architectural improvements. By selecting the right type, size, and color of window trim, you can make it work for any style of building. Whether you’re looking for a decorative finish, a more traditional look, or a more contemporary style, there are window trim options that can suit your desired aesthetic. Not sure what kind of window trim would best suit your property? Read this post to find out the options available and get tips on how to use them to improve your home or business.

Chimney Repairs and Energy Efficiency: How to Keep Your Home Warm and Save on Energy Costs

January 18, 2023
Are you looking for ways to keep your home warm, and efficient, and save on energy costs? Chimney repairs are an important step in improving the energy efficiency of your home. In this blog post, we'll discuss how chimney repairs can help ensure that your home is properly insulated and functioning efficiently while also saving you money on energy bills. We'll also explore some tips for selecting the right materials and skilled professionals to help you complete a successful repair. Finally, we'll outline the steps required for a safe and effective chimney repair. So read on to learn more about how you can keep your home warm and save money!

How to Identify and Prevent Roof Fascia Damage: An Essential Guide for Homeowners

January 11, 2023
The fascia board is an important architectural feature placed at the edge of a house’s roof. Its main role is to protect the structural integrity of the home, but it can suffer damage due to a variety of causes. Extreme weather such as heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage roofing surfaces and the fascia board. Similarly, everyday wear and tear can chip and crack the board, decreasing its ability to protect the roof against further damage. In addition, improper installation or poor maintenance of the fascia board can invite all sorts of unwanted issues. So, what can be done to reduce the likelihood of costly repairs in the long term? As a homeowner, it's important to practice proper maintenance of your fascia board and inspect it routinely. By conducting regular inspections, especially after harsh weather, you’ll be able to quickly identify and repair any issues before they become bigger problems. Additionally, seeking the help of experienced and reputable contractors to install the fascia board and inspect the boards for signs of damage and wear is also recommended. Doing these things can help maximize your roof’s potential for lasting protection. Read on to learn more about the causes of roof fascia damage and how you can reduce the likelihood of costly repairs in the long term.

Making Sure Your House Is Competent: Benefits of Professional Siding Replacement

January 4, 2023
Siding is the most visible exterior feature of a home, which makes it one of the most integral components of a home’s overall structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Exploring the benefits that professional siding replacement can bring to both existing and new construction projects is essential for homeowners looking to improve their properties. Not only does siding improve a residence’s overall visual impact, but it provides added protection against the elements and can drastically raise a property’s value over time. This blog post will explore the advantages that professional siding replacement can offer current and prospective homebuyers alike. From improving energy efficiency to providing strong protection against climate elements and enhancing the home’s overall aesthetics, there are many different benefits that professional siding replacements can offer. Investing in siding replacement is not only a great way to ensure a higher resale value in the short term, but it also provides homes with decades of regular, maintenance-free wear. Keep reading to learn 8 of the benefits and advantages of having a professional siding installation.

Tackling the Top Causes of Roof Damage

December 30, 2022
Nobody likes to have unexpected repairs to deal with, especially when it comes to the roof over their head. Keeping your roof up to snuff can be hard when you don’t know what’s causing the damage. That's why we’re here to tell you the top causes of roof damage. Knowing the common issues can help you make the most cost-effective decisions for your roof health and give you peace of mind knowing your roof is on the right track. Roofs are one of the essential elements of any home. They protect the structure, its occupants, and the belongings inside from all kinds of weather-related pressures and forces. However, if not regularly maintained and inspected, even the best roof can eventually succumb to the elements and wear out. It’s important to know what could cause a roof to deteriorate in order to prevent costly repairs and extensive damage. In this blog, we’ll be discussing the top most common causes of roof damage.

The Differences between DIY and Professional Chimney Repair: What You Need to Know

December 22, 2022
A properly functioning chimney is an essential part of keeping your home safe, ensuring gases and smoke are released without creating a hazardous environment. It’s important to ensure any issues are addressed and repaired quickly, in order to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Anytime you encounter an issue with your chimney, you may feel tempted to take on the repairs yourself to save money. However, in some circumstances, a professional repair is always a better option. It’s important to know the difference in order to ensure your chimney is repaired properly and your family stays safe. When it comes to chimney repair and maintenance, there are a lot of factors that come into play. Not only is it dangerous to perform the repairs yourself if you don’t have the right knowledge or skill level, but some of the tools and supplies needed can be more expensive to purchase than it would be to hire a professional. However, a professional will have access to the right supplies, and tools, and have the know-how needed to address the issue safely and efficiently. In this article, you will learn about the differences between DIY and professional chimney repair, and why a professional repair is always best.