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Find Natural slate roofing installers and replacers in Belmont

Avatar for Level Enterprises, LLC

Level Enterprises, LLC

4.95(
20
)
Approved Pro

Level Enterprises, LLC

4.95(
20
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers
10 local quotes requested

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. Over 20 years of experience.

"We couldn't be happier with Dave's overhaul of our fireplace. His attention to detail, and commitment to excellence. We feel so lucky to have found him after another contractor flaked out on us. He came to the rescue & did whatever it took to get the job done on time and on budget. He is highly skilled and capable. Several times during the job he suggested things that would enhance the finished product. In doing so he created more work for himself. These upgrades probably added a full day of additional work. He didn't change the cost for the job, he just wants his customers to be happy. His attention to detail and cleanliness blew our minds. He spent a full day getting the room taped off to prevent dust from spreading throughout the house. A full day!?!? And it paid off when the work was done...we're not even hiring a cleaner. More than anything Dave's got a good heart, my wife and I genuinely enjoyed meeting and working with him. (Note: no AI was used in writing this review!)"

Matt S on December 2024

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. Over 20 years of experience.

"We couldn't be happier with Dave's overhaul of our fireplace. His attention to detail, and commitment to excellence. We feel so lucky to have found him after another contractor flaked out on us. He came to the rescue & did whatever it took to get the job done on time and on budget. He is highly skilled and capable. Several times during the job he suggested things that would enhance the finished product. In doing so he created more work for himself. These upgrades probably added a full day of additional work. He didn't change the cost for the job, he just wants his customers to be happy. His attention to detail and cleanliness blew our minds. He spent a full day getting the room taped off to prevent dust from spreading throughout the house. A full day!?!? And it paid off when the work was done...we're not even hiring a cleaner. More than anything Dave's got a good heart, my wife and I genuinely enjoyed meeting and working with him. (Note: no AI was used in writing this review!)"

Matt S on December 2024


Avatar for David Mercier

David Mercier

4.76(
63
)
Approved Pro

David Mercier

4.76(
63
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers
34 local quotes requested

David Mercier proudly serves Gardner, MA and all surrounding areas within Massachusetts, as well as, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. We specialize in all types of roofing installation, replacement and repairs for residential and commercial properties. We are always happy to answer questions or concerns you have regarding possible roofing needs. Please call today to schedule an appointment with us! We are here to help guide you with our expertise knowledge in decision making and/or answer any Roofing concerns or problems you may have. We work year round, for all your roofing needs, whether you are in an emergency situation or just in the process of acquiring a newly installed roof for your home or business. We also provide free written estimates, if you are interested in having your project needs met. We have an A plus rating with the BBB!

"Repaired the leak on my slate roof. Very professional and did a good job."

Allan W on October 2025

David Mercier proudly serves Gardner, MA and all surrounding areas within Massachusetts, as well as, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. We specialize in all types of roofing installation, replacement and repairs for residential and commercial properties. We are always happy to answer questions or concerns you have regarding possible roofing needs. Please call today to schedule an appointment with us! We are here to help guide you with our expertise knowledge in decision making and/or answer any Roofing concerns or problems you may have. We work year round, for all your roofing needs, whether you are in an emergency situation or just in the process of acquiring a newly installed roof for your home or business. We also provide free written estimates, if you are interested in having your project needs met. We have an A plus rating with the BBB!

"Repaired the leak on my slate roof. Very professional and did a good job."

Allan W on October 2025


IGA General Construction, Corp.

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro

IGA General Construction, Corp.

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
4 years of experience

IGA General Construction Corp is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"professional and very quick!"

Alex G on April 2022

IGA General Construction Corp is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"professional and very quick!"

Alex G on April 2022


Avatar for Rain and Shine Masonry and Construction

Rain and Shine Masonry and Construction

4.20(
5
)
Approved Pro

Rain and Shine Masonry and Construction

4.20(
5
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
124 local quotes requested
2 years of experience

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"Review of Rain and Shine Masonry (Owner: Sean Boyne): After Sean waterproofed my foundation and installed a French drain, both failed within weeks, moisture and mold worsened, and a previously dry wall began leaking, leaving me with severe mold and massive repair costs. Despite a contractual 20-year warranty, Sean ignored all my messages and even a police inquiry. His listed ?home and business addresses? are only mailboxes, seemingly to avoid accountability. The project also involved a roof replacement that ended up costing nearly triple a typical price. Midway through, he said my roof plywood was below code, and that I needed major attic reconstruction, including rebuilding all of the roof valleys. The reconstruction turned out to be quite limited. I believe he overcharged by tens of thousands. He first underquoted, then added thousands once work began on the foundation project. Sean is in breach of contract and warranty."

Melvin N on November 2025

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"Review of Rain and Shine Masonry (Owner: Sean Boyne): After Sean waterproofed my foundation and installed a French drain, both failed within weeks, moisture and mold worsened, and a previously dry wall began leaking, leaving me with severe mold and massive repair costs. Despite a contractual 20-year warranty, Sean ignored all my messages and even a police inquiry. His listed ?home and business addresses? are only mailboxes, seemingly to avoid accountability. The project also involved a roof replacement that ended up costing nearly triple a typical price. Midway through, he said my roof plywood was below code, and that I needed major attic reconstruction, including rebuilding all of the roof valleys. The reconstruction turned out to be quite limited. I believe he overcharged by tens of thousands. He first underquoted, then added thousands once work began on the foundation project. Sean is in breach of contract and warranty."

Melvin N on November 2025


Avatar for Mighty Dog Roofing of Greater Middlesex

Mighty Dog Roofing of Greater Middlesex

5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro

Mighty Dog Roofing of Greater Middlesex

5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
133 local quotes requested
2 years of experience

Our Mission at Mighty Dog Roofing is to be an industry changer, leading the industry with integrity, finding innovative ways to exceed the expectations of our clients and the communities we serve, and providing a customized experience each and every time we care for their home. Mighty Dog Roofing is endorsed by the nation's top manufacturers and distributors, offering our customers the best and most innovative products and services in the industry. Our relationships with these partners allow us to give you the best warranties, backed by our Watchdog Maintenance Program to take care of your home not just today, but for the life of your roof. Each project we finish is paw stamped with our seal of commitment to the expectations we set at the beginning of our relationship.

"Mighty Dog Roofing did a great job fixing the rake and installing gutters on my house. Work was done in a day, work crew was neat and efficient. "

Karen O on February 2025

Our Mission at Mighty Dog Roofing is to be an industry changer, leading the industry with integrity, finding innovative ways to exceed the expectations of our clients and the communities we serve, and providing a customized experience each and every time we care for their home. Mighty Dog Roofing is endorsed by the nation's top manufacturers and distributors, offering our customers the best and most innovative products and services in the industry. Our relationships with these partners allow us to give you the best warranties, backed by our Watchdog Maintenance Program to take care of your home not just today, but for the life of your roof. Each project we finish is paw stamped with our seal of commitment to the expectations we set at the beginning of our relationship.

"Mighty Dog Roofing did a great job fixing the rake and installing gutters on my house. Work was done in a day, work crew was neat and efficient. "

Karen O on February 2025


Avatar for GF Sprague & Company, Inc.

GF Sprague & Company, Inc.

3.98(
374
)
Approved Pro

GF Sprague & Company, Inc.

3.98(
374
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
96 local quotes requested
56 years of experience

Your Home. Your Priorities. Our Expertise. For more than half a century, GF Sprague has been a growing part of Boston’s architectural fabric. We began by restoring slate roofs and hand-forming copper details for some of the area’s most historic sites and city buildings. These weren’t just jobs, they were lessons in precision and pride. Slate and copper demanded true craftsmanship, the kind that can’t be rushed or faked. That craftsmanship is our foundation. As Boston grew we did too, expanding to help homeowners in the surrounding towns. We wanted to bring the same standard of excellence required on those historic projects to everyone. Today, GF Sprague adds on to our traditional roofing specialties with asphalt, rubber, and cedar. -In addition to our copperwork we can also work on chimneys, gutters, windows, and siding, Whether it’s a 100-year-old brownstone or an updated colonial home, we bring the same commitment to detail, durability, and integrity that defined us on day one. What truly sets GF Sprague apart isn’t just our skill, it’s our promise to treat every customer like family. Every roof we install is a promise: to protect a family and carry forward Boston’s tradition of homes built to last. Along with that promise is another, our Best Price Promise. This means you get the best price for your project every time. Many of our clients have trusted us for generations, passing down their loyalty just as we’ve passed down our craft. With GF Sprague, you don’t just get a contractor — you gain a lifelong, local partner in caring for your home’s exterior.

"Very impressed with Sprague, Mark was very knowledgeable and straightforward. Crew was first class closing roofing and Clean Up in four days and cold weather. Justin was terrific, personable and responsive, and was always on site or available. Crew and especially Foreman were excellent. I would recommend GF Sprague for a high quality Job, their technology and customer service."

Stephen R on January 2023

Your Home. Your Priorities. Our Expertise. For more than half a century, GF Sprague has been a growing part of Boston’s architectural fabric. We began by restoring slate roofs and hand-forming copper details for some of the area’s most historic sites and city buildings. These weren’t just jobs, they were lessons in precision and pride. Slate and copper demanded true craftsmanship, the kind that can’t be rushed or faked. That craftsmanship is our foundation. As Boston grew we did too, expanding to help homeowners in the surrounding towns. We wanted to bring the same standard of excellence required on those historic projects to everyone. Today, GF Sprague adds on to our traditional roofing specialties with asphalt, rubber, and cedar. -In addition to our copperwork we can also work on chimneys, gutters, windows, and siding, Whether it’s a 100-year-old brownstone or an updated colonial home, we bring the same commitment to detail, durability, and integrity that defined us on day one. What truly sets GF Sprague apart isn’t just our skill, it’s our promise to treat every customer like family. Every roof we install is a promise: to protect a family and carry forward Boston’s tradition of homes built to last. Along with that promise is another, our Best Price Promise. This means you get the best price for your project every time. Many of our clients have trusted us for generations, passing down their loyalty just as we’ve passed down our craft. With GF Sprague, you don’t just get a contractor — you gain a lifelong, local partner in caring for your home’s exterior.

"Very impressed with Sprague, Mark was very knowledgeable and straightforward. Crew was first class closing roofing and Clean Up in four days and cold weather. Justin was terrific, personable and responsive, and was always on site or available. Crew and especially Foreman were excellent. I would recommend GF Sprague for a high quality Job, their technology and customer service."

Stephen R on January 2023


Avatar for Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Construction LLC

Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Construction LLC

4.80(
66
)
Approved Pro

Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Construction LLC

4.80(
66
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
174 local quotes requested

Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters is Chelmsford’s go-to roofing contractor, proudly serving Southern New Hampshire, Northern Massachusetts, and Southern Maine. We specialize in residential and commercial roof replacement, roof repair, and roof maintenance—including asphalt shingles, flat roofing, and premium metal systems. Our team uses top-quality materials and industry-best installation practices to protect your home for the long haul. We also offer expert gutter solutions with Gutter Shutter® systems, professional roof cleaning and rejuvenation, skylight repair and replacement, and attic ventilation services. With a reputation built on trust, craftsmanship, and customer-first service, Adam Vaillancourt Roofing is committed to you.

"Everything from the phone call to set up the appointment to the expected wait time for the job to be addressed to the completed project was handled in a professional yet friendly manner. The estimate was explained well and appropriate expectation was set as to the time involved to complete the project and when the job could be scheduled."

Lynda V on December 2024

Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters is Chelmsford’s go-to roofing contractor, proudly serving Southern New Hampshire, Northern Massachusetts, and Southern Maine. We specialize in residential and commercial roof replacement, roof repair, and roof maintenance—including asphalt shingles, flat roofing, and premium metal systems. Our team uses top-quality materials and industry-best installation practices to protect your home for the long haul. We also offer expert gutter solutions with Gutter Shutter® systems, professional roof cleaning and rejuvenation, skylight repair and replacement, and attic ventilation services. With a reputation built on trust, craftsmanship, and customer-first service, Adam Vaillancourt Roofing is committed to you.

"Everything from the phone call to set up the appointment to the expected wait time for the job to be addressed to the completed project was handled in a professional yet friendly manner. The estimate was explained well and appropriate expectation was set as to the time involved to complete the project and when the job could be scheduled."

Lynda V on December 2024


Avatar for Newton Roofing Residential

Newton Roofing Residential

4.67(
141
)
Approved Pro

Newton Roofing Residential

4.67(
141
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
36 years of experience

Dear Prospective Customer, Newton Roofing Residential is a woman owned, professional roofing contractor serving the Boston area with a hands on approach and over 30 years of roofing management experience. If you are looking for a reputable company for your roofing project, and quality, integrity, and distinguished customer service are important, You’ve found your roofer I founded Newton Roofing Residential on two principals, treat our customers with respect and stand behind our work. Countless times, we go to a new customer’s home to diagnose a leak only to find a new, yet poorly installed, roof is the issue. It is troubling to see how many homeowners are victimized by shoddy Massachusetts roofing contractors. To top it off, many are dismayed to find their roof was installed by a non certified roofer, and no manufacturer will honor their warranty. We at Newton Roofing Residential are well trained and constantly stay abreast of the latest product improvements. Our dedication to professionalism allows us to offer some of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Although we are confident in the quality of our roofing systems, on the rare chance there is ever an issue, with our workmanship or product failure, we have you covered and will come back and fix it. When you take into consideration our available lifetime warranties, our “service first” mentality, and our sincere wish to become your partner in your roofing needs, we are the Massachusetts Roofing Contractor for your next roofing project. Whether you need a new roof, a simple repair, or just want to deal with an honest, professional, quality-orientated roofing company, you won’t regret it. Thank you for your business. Founder and CEO Toni Bryan Please give us a call with all your roofing needs. (617) 244-9901.

"I would not recommend them. Initially it appeared they did a good job on my rubber roof, so I hired them again for full gutters, which they subcontracted out. Within the year I had a large leak develop behind their new gutter. They acknowledged the problem but it took months, and constant badgering by email and phone, to get them to come back and fix the problem. They tried a temporary fix with sealer, which failed in weeks, and then it took weeks longer to get them to come back and install a fascia apron. The next year, my rubber roof leaked where they had flashed it. Again it took months to get them to come back and look at it, with constant badgering. When they came back they applied a copious amount of sealer and told me that I had a rot problem with a wooden railing that I would need a carpenter for, and that they would send me photographs and suggestions for repair. They never replied after that, and the leak continued despite their sealing attempt. I finally gave up and found a new roofer, who tells me that they did an inferior job in the first place, and the repair is costing me thousands of dollars."

Ednan B on October 2021

Dear Prospective Customer, Newton Roofing Residential is a woman owned, professional roofing contractor serving the Boston area with a hands on approach and over 30 years of roofing management experience. If you are looking for a reputable company for your roofing project, and quality, integrity, and distinguished customer service are important, You’ve found your roofer I founded Newton Roofing Residential on two principals, treat our customers with respect and stand behind our work. Countless times, we go to a new customer’s home to diagnose a leak only to find a new, yet poorly installed, roof is the issue. It is troubling to see how many homeowners are victimized by shoddy Massachusetts roofing contractors. To top it off, many are dismayed to find their roof was installed by a non certified roofer, and no manufacturer will honor their warranty. We at Newton Roofing Residential are well trained and constantly stay abreast of the latest product improvements. Our dedication to professionalism allows us to offer some of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Although we are confident in the quality of our roofing systems, on the rare chance there is ever an issue, with our workmanship or product failure, we have you covered and will come back and fix it. When you take into consideration our available lifetime warranties, our “service first” mentality, and our sincere wish to become your partner in your roofing needs, we are the Massachusetts Roofing Contractor for your next roofing project. Whether you need a new roof, a simple repair, or just want to deal with an honest, professional, quality-orientated roofing company, you won’t regret it. Thank you for your business. Founder and CEO Toni Bryan Please give us a call with all your roofing needs. (617) 244-9901.

"I would not recommend them. Initially it appeared they did a good job on my rubber roof, so I hired them again for full gutters, which they subcontracted out. Within the year I had a large leak develop behind their new gutter. They acknowledged the problem but it took months, and constant badgering by email and phone, to get them to come back and fix the problem. They tried a temporary fix with sealer, which failed in weeks, and then it took weeks longer to get them to come back and install a fascia apron. The next year, my rubber roof leaked where they had flashed it. Again it took months to get them to come back and look at it, with constant badgering. When they came back they applied a copious amount of sealer and told me that I had a rot problem with a wooden railing that I would need a carpenter for, and that they would send me photographs and suggestions for repair. They never replied after that, and the leak continued despite their sealing attempt. I finally gave up and found a new roofer, who tells me that they did an inferior job in the first place, and the repair is costing me thousands of dollars."

Ednan B on October 2021


Craig Smith

4.66(
49
)
Approved Pro

Craig Smith

4.66(
49
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers
46 local quotes requested

We have over 40 years of experience in the business. Here at C Smith & Sons, we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Craigs guys did great job!"

Daniel M on July 2025

We have over 40 years of experience in the business. Here at C Smith & Sons, we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Craigs guys did great job!"

Daniel M on July 2025


Avatar for Cook's Roofing

Cook's Roofing

4.94(
34
)
Approved Pro

Cook's Roofing

4.94(
34
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
53 local quotes requested

Ken Cook has been installing residential roofs and ventilation systems for over 35 years. Cook's Roofing is certified by the Certain Teed Corporation to operate as a select shingle roofing company. This allows our company to extend material and labor guarantees for longer periods than the competition. Cook's has two crews and two lead roofers are certified Master Shingle Applicators. Our foreman has been employed by us for over 13 years. According to the building inspector's office, Cook's pulls more permits for roof construction in the town of Bellingham than any other contractor. In 1992 when many of the shingle manufactures were having trouble with their fiberglass shingles, the ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) developed testing for shingles that showed many problems with roof shingles. It was right then and there that Ken Cook decided to install the best shingles available and have quality that people could depend on; CertainTeed is the best company for their materials and warranties. They have taught us every aspect of the roofing industry from proper installation techniques to knowledge of how to know the difference between shingles that are of a high product quality and mediocrity. Ken Cook has been a resident of Bellingham for over 50 years. He is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Bellingham serving Christ and the community. He also serves on the finance committee of the same church. Ken is married; they have 2 daughters and 2 grandsons. Ken loves Jesus, (John 5:24) his family and roofing. The entire Cook's family would love to serve you. Additional email - cooksroofing@comcast.net. Additional DBA - Cook's Home Improvements Inc. Phone: 508-966-0306 Fax: 508-966-2233

"Super fast. Excellent work. Fair price. Couldn't ask for a better experience. Highly recommended."

ERic K on January 2021

Ken Cook has been installing residential roofs and ventilation systems for over 35 years. Cook's Roofing is certified by the Certain Teed Corporation to operate as a select shingle roofing company. This allows our company to extend material and labor guarantees for longer periods than the competition. Cook's has two crews and two lead roofers are certified Master Shingle Applicators. Our foreman has been employed by us for over 13 years. According to the building inspector's office, Cook's pulls more permits for roof construction in the town of Bellingham than any other contractor. In 1992 when many of the shingle manufactures were having trouble with their fiberglass shingles, the ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) developed testing for shingles that showed many problems with roof shingles. It was right then and there that Ken Cook decided to install the best shingles available and have quality that people could depend on; CertainTeed is the best company for their materials and warranties. They have taught us every aspect of the roofing industry from proper installation techniques to knowledge of how to know the difference between shingles that are of a high product quality and mediocrity. Ken Cook has been a resident of Bellingham for over 50 years. He is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Bellingham serving Christ and the community. He also serves on the finance committee of the same church. Ken is married; they have 2 daughters and 2 grandsons. Ken loves Jesus, (John 5:24) his family and roofing. The entire Cook's family would love to serve you. Additional email - cooksroofing@comcast.net. Additional DBA - Cook's Home Improvements Inc. Phone: 508-966-0306 Fax: 508-966-2233

"Super fast. Excellent work. Fair price. Couldn't ask for a better experience. Highly recommended."

ERic K on January 2021

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FAQs for natural slate roofing installation and replacement projects in Belmont, MA

A slate roof features thin tiles of natural stone installed over a solid deck and underlayment. Formed under intense heat and pressure, slate is exceptionally durable and delivers a distinctive, high-end look. Because the material weighs far more than asphalt, most homes need added structural support before installation. 

While upfront costs are higher and routine inspections are a must, many homeowners choose slate for its unmatched longevity and curb appeal.

Slate stands out for its 50- to 200-year life span, low maintenance, and classic aesthetic. It’s fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and often boosts resale value. 

On the flip side, slate runs far more per square foot than asphalt, weighs up to four times as much, and demands a contractor who specializes in the material. Tiles can crack on impact, and repairs cost more because the work is slow and precise. If your budget and structure can handle it, slate delivers top-tier performance for generations.

Natural and synthetic slate aim for a premium, stone-like appearance, whereas asphalt focuses on affordability. Real slate runs $10 to $30 per square foot installed and lasts up to 200 years; synthetic slate costs $10 to $15 and tops out at 50 to 100 years. 

Standard asphalt averages $3 to $8 per square foot and needs replacement every 20 to 30 years. If you want the slate look without the full price tag—or extra roof weight—synthetic is a solid middle ground.

With routine inspections and prompt repairs, a natural slate roof can last well beyond 100 years; some hard-slate installations reach the 200-year mark. Soft slate falls in the 50- to 125-year range, and synthetic products last 50 to 100 years. 

Remember, flashing, fasteners, and the underlying structure may need attention sooner than the stone itself. Severe hail or fallen limbs can also shorten life span, so schedule periodic checkups with a slate-qualified roofer.

If you plan to stay in your home long term—or want a standout selling point—slate delivers strong value. Although installation costs are high, owners often recoup 60% to 70% at resale and enjoy lower replacement cycles than asphalt. The stone’s durability, energy efficiency, and timeless curb appeal also appeal to eco-conscious buyers because fewer roofs end up in landfills. Just be sure your framing can handle the weight and that you budget for occasional specialty repairs.

Skip the DIY climb if you have a slate roof. Slate may be tough against the weather, but a single misplaced step can crack a tile and create a leak path. The surface also turns slick when wet, upping the risk of injury. Professional crews use staging and hook ladders that spread weight across multiple slates, protecting both the roof and the worker. To inspect or repair slate, call a roofer who specializes in the material.

The Belmont, MA homeowners’ guide to natural slate roofing installations and replacements

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.