What is a slate roof?

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.

What are the pros and cons of slate roofs?

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.

What’s the difference between synthetic slate vs. asphalt?

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.

How long do slate roofs last?

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.

Are slate roofs worth it?

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.

Can I walk on my slate roof?

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.

Top-Rated Natural Slate Roofing Installations and Replacements Experts in West Chicago, IL

Cenicero's Construction, Inc.

Cenicero's Construction, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

6 years of experience

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We have many years of experience to give you confidence that we are your number one choice for your next home project. You will find us to be competitively priced with close attention to the details. We look forward to building a lasting relationship and guarantee your satisfaction!

"N/A"

Manuel A on October 2020

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We have many years of experience to give you confidence that we are your number one choice for your next home project. You will find us to be competitively priced with close attention to the details. We look forward to building a lasting relationship and guarantee your satisfaction!

"N/A"

Manuel A on October 2020

66 local quotes requested

12 years of experience

Fully Licensed & Insured... and extremely well-rooted in the community... FREE ESTIMATES - 800-509-4724. ASI Construction is family owned and operated with over 30 years of owner experience. We provide general contracting and exterior remodeling services in residential and commercial roofing, siding, and gutters projects of all sizes, large and small. Essentially we are exterior remodeling and renovation project experts. We promise to provide you with a courteous and straightforward experience. Our philosophy is simple, we treat others the way we would like to be treated. Call NOW To Schedule A FREE Inspection!! 800-509-4274 (office) Admin@ConstructionByASI.com (email) www.ConstructionByASI.com (website

Carrington Roofing Co.

10629 S. California Ave.

Carrington Roofing Co.

10629 S. California Ave.

Customers say: Quick response

47 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Carrington Roofing is a professional roofing company in the Chicagoland area. Please feel free to contact us at www.CarringtonRoofingCO.com "High winds tore off my roof ", "I've experienced sudden damages (storm, wind, fire, hail etc.)" We have a lot of knowledge and understanding on how to properly file your loss claim to your insurance carrier. We can help underwrite your claim to produce the maximum benefits to acquire your full replacement cost of your loss and will take care of you from start to finish. We do re-roofing work and repairs on structures ranging from individual buildings, to large commercial projects. We inspect each project on a regular basis to ensure that the job is progressing smoothly. We give a standard three- to 15-year warranty against leaks and defects in workmanship. After the first rain or high wind, you will know your roof is correctly installed.

"Hard work crew. Always on time. Tile work was excellent!"

Ibn A on January 2019

Carrington Roofing is a professional roofing company in the Chicagoland area. Please feel free to contact us at www.CarringtonRoofingCO.com "High winds tore off my roof ", "I've experienced sudden damages (storm, wind, fire, hail etc.)" We have a lot of knowledge and understanding on how to properly file your loss claim to your insurance carrier. We can help underwrite your claim to produce the maximum benefits to acquire your full replacement cost of your loss and will take care of you from start to finish. We do re-roofing work and repairs on structures ranging from individual buildings, to large commercial projects. We inspect each project on a regular basis to ensure that the job is progressing smoothly. We give a standard three- to 15-year warranty against leaks and defects in workmanship. After the first rain or high wind, you will know your roof is correctly installed.

"Hard work crew. Always on time. Tile work was excellent!"

Ibn A on January 2019

Lupfer Builders, Inc.

Lupfer Builders, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

39 years of experience

We are a full-service remodeling company, specializing in, but not limited to; kitchens, baths, additions, basements, and more. Other services include: plumbing, electrical, tile, wood flooring, home repairs, and handyman services. Lupfer Builders, Inc., was established in 1994 by Dave Lupfer. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Dave, comes to the construction industry with a wealth of experience. He began his career with Seigles Home Centers, managing site installations of Seigle products such as mill-work, doors, windows, and cabinetry. He also managed their retail electrical, and plumbing department as well. We are your one stop shop for all of your home improvement needs! Call us today, we look forward to earning your business.

"Efficient and neat."

Glenn B on May 2023

We are a full-service remodeling company, specializing in, but not limited to; kitchens, baths, additions, basements, and more. Other services include: plumbing, electrical, tile, wood flooring, home repairs, and handyman services. Lupfer Builders, Inc., was established in 1994 by Dave Lupfer. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Dave, comes to the construction industry with a wealth of experience. He began his career with Seigles Home Centers, managing site installations of Seigle products such as mill-work, doors, windows, and cabinetry. He also managed their retail electrical, and plumbing department as well. We are your one stop shop for all of your home improvement needs! Call us today, we look forward to earning your business.

"Efficient and neat."

Glenn B on May 2023

Titan Construction Enterprise Inc

23831 W Andrew Rd

4.20(

356

)

•

Approved Pro

Titan Construction Enterprise Inc

23831 W Andrew Rd

4.20(

356

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

860 local quotes requested

24 years of experience

Titan Construction is more than your average roofing company! Whether you're looking for a new roof, siding, windows, doors or a deck, we are the company to call. With over 10+ years as a locally owned, family operated business we strive to be the best, not the biggest. Over the last decade we have installed over 3,000+ roofs in the Chicagoland area, which allowed us to form excellent partnerships with multiple great companies. Also, there's a good chance you've seen our trucks driving around, they're quite hard to miss. Call us today for your FREE ESTIMATE, your house will be in good hands.

"The labor crew does great work. It took me 3 weeks to get it through to these office guys that I didn’t just need plywood, I needed a BEAM replaced. Tim in the office and the rep that did the original quote assured me that the beam replacement would be $1,000 MAX on top of the original quote. Got a bill for over $7,000 on top of the original quote. Gotta love those surprises!"

Nick M on July 2022

Titan Construction is more than your average roofing company! Whether you're looking for a new roof, siding, windows, doors or a deck, we are the company to call. With over 10+ years as a locally owned, family operated business we strive to be the best, not the biggest. Over the last decade we have installed over 3,000+ roofs in the Chicagoland area, which allowed us to form excellent partnerships with multiple great companies. Also, there's a good chance you've seen our trucks driving around, they're quite hard to miss. Call us today for your FREE ESTIMATE, your house will be in good hands.

"The labor crew does great work. It took me 3 weeks to get it through to these office guys that I didn’t just need plywood, I needed a BEAM replaced. Tim in the office and the rep that did the original quote assured me that the beam replacement would be $1,000 MAX on top of the original quote. Got a bill for over $7,000 on top of the original quote. Gotta love those surprises!"

Nick M on July 2022

R Celeste Construction

117 S Cook St

4.96(

25

)

•

Approved Pro

R Celeste Construction

117 S Cook St

4.96(

25

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

338 local quotes requested

We are family owned and operated; Robert Celeste has been replacing roofs since 1984. You are dealing directly with business owner. Anyone in our crew has a minimum of 10 year on the job experience and undergoes constant training.

"Robert was a pleasure to work with and gave me a great deal compared to two other competitors. His team did a great job too, against adversity, and finished the job in just two days as promised. First, they discovered that my sheathing was rotting due to high moisture and poor ventilation in the attic of my 26yr old home. They successfully replaced 55 sheets of 1/2" plywood, without hesitation, after my approval, to keep the job on track. Better even yet, they resolved the sources of the moisture and lack of ventilation to ensure that it doesn't happen again. Second, at the start of the 2nd day, their ladder hoist broke down, which I expected to halt work (not getting heavy packages of shingles to the roof). But, instead of a delay, the team members just carried them up the ladder manually to get the job done on time. You don't see that kind of commitment very often in this new world order. I would highly recommend them for your next roofing job. Thank you, R Celeste Construction!"

James M on September 2024

We are family owned and operated; Robert Celeste has been replacing roofs since 1984. You are dealing directly with business owner. Anyone in our crew has a minimum of 10 year on the job experience and undergoes constant training.

"Robert was a pleasure to work with and gave me a great deal compared to two other competitors. His team did a great job too, against adversity, and finished the job in just two days as promised. First, they discovered that my sheathing was rotting due to high moisture and poor ventilation in the attic of my 26yr old home. They successfully replaced 55 sheets of 1/2" plywood, without hesitation, after my approval, to keep the job on track. Better even yet, they resolved the sources of the moisture and lack of ventilation to ensure that it doesn't happen again. Second, at the start of the 2nd day, their ladder hoist broke down, which I expected to halt work (not getting heavy packages of shingles to the roof). But, instead of a delay, the team members just carried them up the ladder manually to get the job done on time. You don't see that kind of commitment very often in this new world order. I would highly recommend them for your next roofing job. Thank you, R Celeste Construction!"

James M on September 2024

Home Build - Windows, Doors & Siding

212 W Stone Rd

4.73(

11

)

•

Approved Pro

Home Build - Windows, Doors & Siding

212 W Stone Rd

4.73(

11

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers

1858 local quotes requested

Home Build specializes in installations or replacement windows, doors, and siding. Home Build is a locally owned and operated home improvement contractor. At Home Build, every project is owner sold, supervised and approved. We’ve been providing superior products and customer-focused service for Chicago northwestern suburbs homeowners since 1997. We understand that we are only as good as the quality of the products we offer, which is why we have aligned with trusted manufacturers such as Pella, Alside, Marvin, Simpson, Therma-Tru, James Hardie, and other industry leaders. We offer something to fit every budget and many of our products are backed by lifetime warranties to give our customers added peace of mind.

"I was replacing all of my basement windows because the wood frames were rotten in places and had lead paint. The previous basement windows were really high quality of a type that doesn't exist anymore (hoppers that open in and from the bottom) but I chose to replace because I didn't want any wood or lead paint left. When I met in person with the salesman, he told me that is what they would do because of course the wood was obviously damaged. The contract said "replacement window, new flashing", which I thought meant what the salesman told me, the entire frame. The person who came to measure called me on the phone, and he told me that all the damaged wood would stay, but I didn't understand him well over the phone. When the windows were actually installed, they left virtually all of the damaged wood and lead paint. They came back today not to make plans to fix anything, just to insist to my face that I was wrong and they were right, and the salesman didn't count."

Janet R on May 2025

Home Build specializes in installations or replacement windows, doors, and siding. Home Build is a locally owned and operated home improvement contractor. At Home Build, every project is owner sold, supervised and approved. We’ve been providing superior products and customer-focused service for Chicago northwestern suburbs homeowners since 1997. We understand that we are only as good as the quality of the products we offer, which is why we have aligned with trusted manufacturers such as Pella, Alside, Marvin, Simpson, Therma-Tru, James Hardie, and other industry leaders. We offer something to fit every budget and many of our products are backed by lifetime warranties to give our customers added peace of mind.

"I was replacing all of my basement windows because the wood frames were rotten in places and had lead paint. The previous basement windows were really high quality of a type that doesn't exist anymore (hoppers that open in and from the bottom) but I chose to replace because I didn't want any wood or lead paint left. When I met in person with the salesman, he told me that is what they would do because of course the wood was obviously damaged. The contract said "replacement window, new flashing", which I thought meant what the salesman told me, the entire frame. The person who came to measure called me on the phone, and he told me that all the damaged wood would stay, but I didn't understand him well over the phone. When the windows were actually installed, they left virtually all of the damaged wood and lead paint. They came back today not to make plans to fix anything, just to insist to my face that I was wrong and they were right, and the salesman didn't count."

Janet R on May 2025

Everlast Exteriors of Illinois

Located In:

4.74(

34

)

•

Approved Pro

Everlast Exteriors of Illinois

Located In:

4.74(

34

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 91% of Angi customers

Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers

1080 local quotes requested

Hi, this is Mike with Everlast Exteriors of Illinois, Inc. We have the experience and dedication to bring your dreams to reality! Established in 1987, specializing in high quality exterior improvements such as windows, gutters, siding, and roofing. We guarantee your satisfaction and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or text to schedule an estimate today! Click on my Better Business Bureau report as well and see my A+ rating for 37 years with zero complaints. Check out job photos, my Website and more reviews. Customer Video Testimonial 05-15-19 https://youtu.be/gP_PCTq7NaM https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/ea9fdab01818e5c063/everlast-exteriors-il-earns-national-best-of-the-best-award Better Business Bureau A+ https://www.bbb.org/us/il/naperville/profile/siding-contractors/everlast-exteriors-of-illinois-inc-0654-16000091 Angi Leads 200+ 5 Star Reviews https://www.homeadvisor.com/rated.everlastexteriors.2251596.html#reviews Job Photos https://goo.gl/photos/UEgL5awPziK3dWJh8 Window Installation Video https://photos.app.goo.gl/YVqJxdChk83rNake7 Window Job https://photos.app.goo.gl/VzT9LgRzJjQRANmq7 This Is What We Do Video https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=yzluZHeYHsA https://g.co/kgs/xkoyta https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/ea9fdab01818e5c063/everlast-exteriors-il-earns-national-best-of-the-best-award https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/709fdab41c1ceac9f9/everlast-exteriors-30-sec-spot Call me at 630-913-9001. I look forward to earning your business.

"My experience with Everlast was great. I called Mike to request an estimate for new siding & windows. The cost estimate and timeline for completion of the work was very acceptable to me. Mike offered excellent advice about siding & shutter colors. In addition, Mike suggested that I also check with insurance to see if my roof was damaged by the Memorial Day hail storm. Mike's roofing guy met with the adjuster and I was able to get a new roof and gutters from my insurance! The crews that performed the work were terrific and the quality of siding, windows, roof and gutters is excellent. Siding and roof were each completed in 1 day. Every window in my house was replaced in about 4 hours. Several neighbors were amazed that the siding was installed in 1 day. Do yourself a favor and call Everlast Exteriors if you need new siding, windows, or roofing. See the before and after photos."

Patrick L on January 2020

Hi, this is Mike with Everlast Exteriors of Illinois, Inc. We have the experience and dedication to bring your dreams to reality! Established in 1987, specializing in high quality exterior improvements such as windows, gutters, siding, and roofing. We guarantee your satisfaction and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or text to schedule an estimate today! Click on my Better Business Bureau report as well and see my A+ rating for 37 years with zero complaints. Check out job photos, my Website and more reviews. Customer Video Testimonial 05-15-19 https://youtu.be/gP_PCTq7NaM https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/ea9fdab01818e5c063/everlast-exteriors-il-earns-national-best-of-the-best-award Better Business Bureau A+ https://www.bbb.org/us/il/naperville/profile/siding-contractors/everlast-exteriors-of-illinois-inc-0654-16000091 Angi Leads 200+ 5 Star Reviews https://www.homeadvisor.com/rated.everlastexteriors.2251596.html#reviews Job Photos https://goo.gl/photos/UEgL5awPziK3dWJh8 Window Installation Video https://photos.app.goo.gl/YVqJxdChk83rNake7 Window Job https://photos.app.goo.gl/VzT9LgRzJjQRANmq7 This Is What We Do Video https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=yzluZHeYHsA https://g.co/kgs/xkoyta https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/ea9fdab01818e5c063/everlast-exteriors-il-earns-national-best-of-the-best-award https://bestofthebesttelevision.vids.io/videos/709fdab41c1ceac9f9/everlast-exteriors-30-sec-spot Call me at 630-913-9001. I look forward to earning your business.

"My experience with Everlast was great. I called Mike to request an estimate for new siding & windows. The cost estimate and timeline for completion of the work was very acceptable to me. Mike offered excellent advice about siding & shutter colors. In addition, Mike suggested that I also check with insurance to see if my roof was damaged by the Memorial Day hail storm. Mike's roofing guy met with the adjuster and I was able to get a new roof and gutters from my insurance! The crews that performed the work were terrific and the quality of siding, windows, roof and gutters is excellent. Siding and roof were each completed in 1 day. Every window in my house was replaced in about 4 hours. Several neighbors were amazed that the siding was installed in 1 day. Do yourself a favor and call Everlast Exteriors if you need new siding, windows, or roofing. See the before and after photos."

Patrick L on January 2020

Exterior Designers Inc

12740 Hawks Bill Ln

4.55(

121

)

•

Approved Pro

Exterior Designers Inc

12740 Hawks Bill Ln

4.55(

121

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

790 local quotes requested

40 years of experience

In 1986 John Gallagher had one goal – to provide top quality exterior remodeling products and workmanship at a reasonable price along with incredible service before and after the job. Exterior Designers Inc started with and maintains that philosophy and mission.

"I requested quotes and met with a number of companies. By far, I enjoyed meeting with John. He was informative and thorough at our meeting. Given the information provided, and our own research, I also felt as though our values matched up nicely. So much so, that we planned on using EDI services, given the quote was reasonable. However, we were never given our quote. We were strung along by a series of emails, and then received no more responses. I have tried many times to reach out for the quote, and after that, to inquire as to what happened. Again, no response at all. Now, after waiting so long, we have to start the entire process over again, and as it is October, we essentially have no hope of getting a new roof this season. I really hope our current last through the winter. This is entire unprofessional behavior, and I grow so weary of companies that make promises and do not fulfil them. We should at the very least be treated with enough respect to be given an explanation as to why they cannot or will not perform the work."

James O on September 2021

In 1986 John Gallagher had one goal – to provide top quality exterior remodeling products and workmanship at a reasonable price along with incredible service before and after the job. Exterior Designers Inc started with and maintains that philosophy and mission.

"I requested quotes and met with a number of companies. By far, I enjoyed meeting with John. He was informative and thorough at our meeting. Given the information provided, and our own research, I also felt as though our values matched up nicely. So much so, that we planned on using EDI services, given the quote was reasonable. However, we were never given our quote. We were strung along by a series of emails, and then received no more responses. I have tried many times to reach out for the quote, and after that, to inquire as to what happened. Again, no response at all. Now, after waiting so long, we have to start the entire process over again, and as it is October, we essentially have no hope of getting a new roof this season. I really hope our current last through the winter. This is entire unprofessional behavior, and I grow so weary of companies that make promises and do not fulfil them. We should at the very least be treated with enough respect to be given an explanation as to why they cannot or will not perform the work."

James O on September 2021

Ultimate Remodelers Inc

112 E Saint Charles Rd

4.88(

73

)

•

Approved Pro

Ultimate Remodelers Inc

112 E Saint Charles Rd

4.88(

73

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

962 local quotes requested

"A Project Away From Perfection", Quality Siding, Windows, and Roofing projects delivered by experienced craftsmen! Our experts are seasoned with over 20 years experience in exteriors, and residential remodeling. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded as well as fully accredited as a Family, Owned and Operated business in Villa Park, IL. Call us today and schedule a FREE in-home estimate for your next project!

"Phil was excellent. He was professional and kind. He did a stellar job with the repair and went above and beyond to clean out the gutter while he was up there. It speaks volume to the dedication and caring he has for his work and professionalism. Amazing, you don't see that anymore. Mike was also great. He came to scope out the job and make sure things were going well. He even took additional time to look in the attic and assess the roof, giving not only his honest opinion, but also educating me in the process. 11/10 on everything! Professionalism, quality of work, customer service, pricing. You all rocked it!"

Howard G on June 2025

"A Project Away From Perfection", Quality Siding, Windows, and Roofing projects delivered by experienced craftsmen! Our experts are seasoned with over 20 years experience in exteriors, and residential remodeling. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded as well as fully accredited as a Family, Owned and Operated business in Villa Park, IL. Call us today and schedule a FREE in-home estimate for your next project!

"Phil was excellent. He was professional and kind. He did a stellar job with the repair and went above and beyond to clean out the gutter while he was up there. It speaks volume to the dedication and caring he has for his work and professionalism. Amazing, you don't see that anymore. Mike was also great. He came to scope out the job and make sure things were going well. He even took additional time to look in the attic and assess the roof, giving not only his honest opinion, but also educating me in the process. 11/10 on everything! Professionalism, quality of work, customer service, pricing. You all rocked it!"

Howard G on June 2025