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 Williamsburg, VA

Home Genius Exteriors

5520 Greenwich Rd Suite 204B

Home Genius Exteriors

5520 Greenwich Rd Suite 204B

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

133 local quotes requested

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Cleveland by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Home genius exteriors was very timely, courteous and professional during my roof replacement. Knowledge too. Will likely recommend to others who need roof work."

Joycelyn P on June 2025

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Cleveland by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Home genius exteriors was very timely, courteous and professional during my roof replacement. Knowledge too. Will likely recommend to others who need roof work."

Joycelyn P on June 2025

Home Genius Exteriors

Home Genius Exteriors

Customers say: Quality work

133 local quotes requested

21 years of experience

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Richmond by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Very good experience! Every one is polite & explains all aspects of the job & instalation."

Ellen T on September 2025

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Richmond by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Very good experience! Every one is polite & explains all aspects of the job & instalation."

Ellen T on September 2025

Home Genius Exteriors

5520 Greenwich Rd.

4.27(

15

)

•Approved Pro

Home Genius Exteriors

5520 Greenwich Rd.

4.27(

15

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

1232 local quotes requested

7 years of experience

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Tidewater by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Did a great job. And I was moving in the same day the roof was being replaced and the crew was very responsive to my moving needs."

Barry W on June 2025

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Tidewater by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Did a great job. And I was moving in the same day the roof was being replaced and the crew was very responsive to my moving needs."

Barry W on June 2025

Paramount Builders Inc

12940 Plaza Dr

4.47(

223

)

•Approved Pro

Paramount Builders Inc

12940 Plaza Dr

4.47(

223

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

2423 local quotes requested

34 years of experience

Paramount Builders takes pride in being your local home improvement contractor. Since 1991, we have served our local community by providing the very best products, warranties, installation techniques, service, and most importantly; your experience from start to finish. Our exclusive product lines give us the benefit of being able to extend our top-of-the-line products to you, our neighbors, with certainty and affordability. We hand-picked our exclusive products with you, your family, and your home's aesthetic and longevity in mind. All of our products were created to keep your home energy efficient and protected in every way. Our commitment to excellence does not waiver. We understand what it means to own a home, and we understand as professionals what you and your home deserve. We live each day by our mission statement; "Improving the Community, One Home at a Time," and thank you for continuing to trust us!

"Unprofessional visit. Showed up unannounced and we only knew they were there because one person stood 10 feet from our porch staring at us in through our living room window. My wife spent 10 minutes talking to them, they stated they had no business cards, they only had an appointment card but didn't present it. Honestly when you show up at someone's house you need some sort of identifier if your walking door to door in casual clothes. After the uncomfortable dead stare through the windows my wife and i have decided to post a No Solicitors sign. They didn't take no for an answer at first, pushing with more questions to circumvent the no she gave, as well as interrupted our dinner, as they showed up right at 6pm."

Robert H on May 2023

Paramount Builders takes pride in being your local home improvement contractor. Since 1991, we have served our local community by providing the very best products, warranties, installation techniques, service, and most importantly; your experience from start to finish. Our exclusive product lines give us the benefit of being able to extend our top-of-the-line products to you, our neighbors, with certainty and affordability. We hand-picked our exclusive products with you, your family, and your home's aesthetic and longevity in mind. All of our products were created to keep your home energy efficient and protected in every way. Our commitment to excellence does not waiver. We understand what it means to own a home, and we understand as professionals what you and your home deserve. We live each day by our mission statement; "Improving the Community, One Home at a Time," and thank you for continuing to trust us!

"Unprofessional visit. Showed up unannounced and we only knew they were there because one person stood 10 feet from our porch staring at us in through our living room window. My wife spent 10 minutes talking to them, they stated they had no business cards, they only had an appointment card but didn't present it. Honestly when you show up at someone's house you need some sort of identifier if your walking door to door in casual clothes. After the uncomfortable dead stare through the windows my wife and i have decided to post a No Solicitors sign. They didn't take no for an answer at first, pushing with more questions to circumvent the no she gave, as well as interrupted our dinner, as they showed up right at 6pm."

Robert H on May 2023

Elman's Contractors, Inc.

9017 Archwind Ct

4.94(

105

)

•Approved Pro

Elman's Contractors, Inc.

9017 Archwind Ct

4.94(

105

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers

1166 local quotes requested

Hi my name is Elman Luna owner of Elman's Contractors! We "Replace" all type of Siding (Vinyl, Wood, and Cement Siding), Windows We are a family own company, In business since 2004. We are bilingual. NO REPAIRS! (Please contact us today for a free estimate) 804-276-1894

"Wonderful and timely."

crystal r on September 2025

Hi my name is Elman Luna owner of Elman's Contractors! We "Replace" all type of Siding (Vinyl, Wood, and Cement Siding), Windows We are a family own company, In business since 2004. We are bilingual. NO REPAIRS! (Please contact us today for a free estimate) 804-276-1894

"Wonderful and timely."

crystal r on September 2025

Paramount Builders Inc

501 Central Dr

4.17(

565

)

•Approved Pro

Paramount Builders Inc

501 Central Dr

4.17(

565

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

1949 local quotes requested

34 years of experience

Paramount Builders takes pride in being your local home improvement contractor. Since 1991, we have served our local community by providing the very best products, warranties, installation techniques, service, and most importantly; your experience from start to finish. Our exclusive product lines give us the benefit of being able to extend our top-of-the-line products to you, our neighbors, with certainty and affordability. We hand-picked our exclusive products with you, your family, and your home's aesthetic and longevity in mind. All of our products were created to keep your home energy efficient and protected in every way. Our commitment to excellence does not waiver. We understand what it means to own a home, and we understand as professionals what you and your home deserve. We live each day by our mission statement; "Improving the Community, One Home at a Time," and thank you for continuing to trust us!

"Awesome Amazing job"

Karen H on May 2025

Paramount Builders takes pride in being your local home improvement contractor. Since 1991, we have served our local community by providing the very best products, warranties, installation techniques, service, and most importantly; your experience from start to finish. Our exclusive product lines give us the benefit of being able to extend our top-of-the-line products to you, our neighbors, with certainty and affordability. We hand-picked our exclusive products with you, your family, and your home's aesthetic and longevity in mind. All of our products were created to keep your home energy efficient and protected in every way. Our commitment to excellence does not waiver. We understand what it means to own a home, and we understand as professionals what you and your home deserve. We live each day by our mission statement; "Improving the Community, One Home at a Time," and thank you for continuing to trust us!

"Awesome Amazing job"

Karen H on May 2025

Guardian Roofing Services

311 Agusta Drive

5.00(

6

)

•Approved Pro

Guardian Roofing Services

311 Agusta Drive

5.00(

6

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

286 local quotes requested

Professional roofing contractor serving all of Hampton Roads. We offer roof leak repairs, gutter repairs, facia repairs, and roofing services like shingle, metal, and rubber roof repairs and replacements. As a trusted roofing company in Newport News, with over 10 years experience we value our customers and offer the best work around backed by our worksmenshop warranty.Call us today for a free estiamte on your exterior project !

"I had a leak in the ceiling of my daughters bedroom. I called other companies but nobody could come out for at least a week. I called Guardian Roofing and Chris was able to come out the next day to check it out and give me an estimate. He found the flashing was not large enough and had caused the leak to form so we had the flashing replaced, shingles replaced and a water/ice shield installed over the sheathing for further protection. Chris and Derek came out on Sunday morning to fix the leak and I have not had a problem since. They were both extremely professional and very nice to work with. This was very quickly done and it was during the time when we had rain every day for a week so I was very happy they could come out and safely get this job completed. I will certainly use them again and will recommend them to anyone looking for roofing services."

Lisa H on October 2024

Professional roofing contractor serving all of Hampton Roads. We offer roof leak repairs, gutter repairs, facia repairs, and roofing services like shingle, metal, and rubber roof repairs and replacements. As a trusted roofing company in Newport News, with over 10 years experience we value our customers and offer the best work around backed by our worksmenshop warranty.Call us today for a free estiamte on your exterior project !

"I had a leak in the ceiling of my daughters bedroom. I called other companies but nobody could come out for at least a week. I called Guardian Roofing and Chris was able to come out the next day to check it out and give me an estimate. He found the flashing was not large enough and had caused the leak to form so we had the flashing replaced, shingles replaced and a water/ice shield installed over the sheathing for further protection. Chris and Derek came out on Sunday morning to fix the leak and I have not had a problem since. They were both extremely professional and very nice to work with. This was very quickly done and it was during the time when we had rain every day for a week so I was very happy they could come out and safely get this job completed. I will certainly use them again and will recommend them to anyone looking for roofing services."

Lisa H on October 2024

C L Wright Roofing Inc

801 Grove Rd

4.87(

554

)

•Approved Pro

C L Wright Roofing Inc

801 Grove Rd

4.87(

554

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

930 local quotes requested

Credit cards are accepted for the purchase of materials. Additional contact name - Charles Wright. Family owned & operated. If you would like to message us, please email us directly at clwrightroofing@aol.com as the Angie's List message center is not working for us at this time. Thank you! Award winning. Additional DBA - Ventilation Installations & Specialty Metals.

"C.L. Wright Roofing did a spectacular job on my roof! The work only took a day (maybe because our house is only but so big). Their workers were fast and efficient. They cleaned up all the mess afterward. We weren't pestered about payment before the job was done (this has happened to us with other businesses for siding and porch/deck renovation). Overall, a fantastic experience with C.L. Wright Roofing. They've done roofing for my family as well and everyone is happy with their work. Next time I need a roof, I'm calling C.L. Wright Roofing again. Thanks!"

Lea D on May 2023

Credit cards are accepted for the purchase of materials. Additional contact name - Charles Wright. Family owned & operated. If you would like to message us, please email us directly at clwrightroofing@aol.com as the Angie's List message center is not working for us at this time. Thank you! Award winning. Additional DBA - Ventilation Installations & Specialty Metals.

"C.L. Wright Roofing did a spectacular job on my roof! The work only took a day (maybe because our house is only but so big). Their workers were fast and efficient. They cleaned up all the mess afterward. We weren't pestered about payment before the job was done (this has happened to us with other businesses for siding and porch/deck renovation). Overall, a fantastic experience with C.L. Wright Roofing. They've done roofing for my family as well and everyone is happy with their work. Next time I need a roof, I'm calling C.L. Wright Roofing again. Thanks!"

Lea D on May 2023

Homefix

.

4.24(

464

)

•Approved Pro

Homefix

.

4.24(

464

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

5545 local quotes requested

35 years of experience

Homefix has been serving Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Washington D.C. homeowners since 1990, offering a variety of services that improve the exterior appearance, value and energy efficiency of homes like yours. Our customers enjoy fast installation times, excellent customer service, and a variety of top of the line products that will reduce your home energy usage, improve insulation from outside temperature and noise, and instantly increase the appeal of your home. As a GAF Certified Master Elite roofing contractor, we can offer the best warranties in the roofing industry, as well as the added peace of mind of working with one of the top 3% of roofers in North America. Homefix is a leading team of home improvement professionals serving the Mid-Atlantic. We specialize in all types of windows, siding, roofing, doors, trim, shutters and gutters.

"This company is very shady and unethical. We selected them because of the price. It was substantially lower than other quotes received. The reason it was lower was because it wasn't accurate. With the dumpster in our yard, and the roofing materials delivered only then did they "discover" we also needed all new planking. We were prepared and budgeted for a $21,300 project. Suddenly we needed to come up with an additional $8,500 for the plywood. This was part of all the other roofer's quotes. When I voiced that I wanted to use another company they told me I signed a contract and they planned to enforce it. If I broke the contract I would have to give them 1/3. I had no choice but to cave. When I pressed on why this wasn't discovered until they started- they had no response. I was stuck and was forced to proceed (or walk away from $7,100). BEWARE!!! 6/25/2025"

Thomas F on June 2025

Homefix has been serving Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Washington D.C. homeowners since 1990, offering a variety of services that improve the exterior appearance, value and energy efficiency of homes like yours. Our customers enjoy fast installation times, excellent customer service, and a variety of top of the line products that will reduce your home energy usage, improve insulation from outside temperature and noise, and instantly increase the appeal of your home. As a GAF Certified Master Elite roofing contractor, we can offer the best warranties in the roofing industry, as well as the added peace of mind of working with one of the top 3% of roofers in North America. Homefix is a leading team of home improvement professionals serving the Mid-Atlantic. We specialize in all types of windows, siding, roofing, doors, trim, shutters and gutters.

"This company is very shady and unethical. We selected them because of the price. It was substantially lower than other quotes received. The reason it was lower was because it wasn't accurate. With the dumpster in our yard, and the roofing materials delivered only then did they "discover" we also needed all new planking. We were prepared and budgeted for a $21,300 project. Suddenly we needed to come up with an additional $8,500 for the plywood. This was part of all the other roofer's quotes. When I voiced that I wanted to use another company they told me I signed a contract and they planned to enforce it. If I broke the contract I would have to give them 1/3. I had no choice but to cave. When I pressed on why this wasn't discovered until they started- they had no response. I was stuck and was forced to proceed (or walk away from $7,100). BEWARE!!! 6/25/2025"

Thomas F on June 2025

Micho Construction

19123 Blackberry Lane

5.00(

3

)

•Approved Pro

Micho Construction

19123 Blackberry Lane

5.00(

3

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

4746 local quotes requested

Wilmer 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.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025

Wilmer 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.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025

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