Slate roofing is often considered a “premium” option when it comes to deciding on the type of material for your roof, due to its attractive appearance and extensive lifespan, spanning over 100 years in many cases. In this article, we’ll explore how much a slate roof should cost you, and how it can help you save money over time through greater energy efficiency, reduced need for repairs, and an increased property value!
How Much Do Slate Roofs Cost?
The cost of a slate roof installation can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of slate, labour requirements, and the overall size of your roof. Below we’ve broken down the costs of the different types of slate by square metre (m²), the typical measurement for roofing materials, as well as the key factors that can influence the cost of your slate roof:
Material Costs per Square Metre
The type of slate you choose has a significant impact on the overall cost since some slates are more aesthetically pleasing or more durable than others. The most common types include:
- Welsh Slate: Known worldwide as the highest quality slate with the greatest longevity (100+ years), you’ll typically pay £180+ per m² for Welsh roof slate.
- Spanish Slate: Spanish slate is the most popular slate option, used on 90% of roofs in Europe. Renowned for its affordability and aesthetic appeal, Spanish slate typically starts at £75 per m².
- Brazilian Slate: Although slightly less refined, Brazilian slate is still a durable and attractive option. For this type of slate, you’ll be paying between £110 per m².
- Synthetic Slate: Made from fibre cement or composite materials, synthetic or “man-made” slate often costs around £20 to £40 per m².
Labour Costs per Square Metre
Due to its fragility during installation, installing a slate roof requires skilled professionals familiar with the material. Labour costs can vary based on your location and roof complexity, but on average, these range between £40 to £75 per m². Complex roof designs, which may involve steep pitches or intricate patterns, can push this price higher.
Total Cost Estimates for a Typical Home
For a standard UK 4-bed home with a 100 m² roof area, here’s a breakdown by budget tier:
- Budget Install (Synthetic Slate)
- Material: £20 to £40 per m²
- Total: £6,000 to £9,000
- Mid-Range Install (Spanish or Brazilian Slate)
- Material: £75+ per m²
- Total: £8,500 to £13,500
- Premium Install (Welsh Slate or Cornish Slate)
- Material: £180+ per m²
- Total: Upwards of £18,500
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Slate Roof?
When planning a slate roof installation, there are several considerations you should make that could influence the cost of the project. Let’s take a look at each to help you budget your ideas properly:
Type of Slate
The biggest consideration in the cost of your roof is the type of slate you choose. Premium natural slate options, like Welsh or Cornish slate, are highly durable and long-lasting but come at a higher price, reflecting their superior quality and scarcity. For those on a tighter budget, Spanish, Brazilian, and Chinese slate are all cheaper choices. However, as a lower slate grade, they won’t last quite as long.
Roof Size and Pitch
The size and pitch of your roof directly impact costs. Larger roofs require more slate and additional labour, increasing material and installation expenses. Steeper roof pitches are more challenging to work on, often requiring specialist equipment and extra time.
Location
In urban areas where demand for skilled roofers is high, such as London or Manchester, labour charges are typically steeper. Conversely, rural locations may have lower labour costs but could incur higher transport fees for the delivery of the slate. Regional variations in slate prices also play a role, with locally sourced materials sometimes offering cost savings.
Installation Complexity
Slate roofing is a highly skilled trade, so not every roofer will have the expertise to handle a slate roof Precision is required to ensure the slate is cut and laid correctly, and the process can take longer than for other roofing materials. Hiring experienced professionals, like our team here at Empire Roofing, can increase costs, but ensures that your roof will last for many, many years to come!
Additional Components
The weight of natural slate can necessitate additional structural support, which can increase costs. Components like underlayment, flashing, and gutters also add to the total expense, as do scaffolding requirements for safe access. For older or weaker structures, reinforcement might be necessary to bear the load, further increasing installation costs.
How Do Slate Roofs Save You Money Over Time?
Choosing slate as your preferred material for a roof is a lasting investment, especially when compared to other types of roofing materials. Here are five of the most common ways you can save money over time:
- Energy Efficiency: Slate provides excellent insulation for your home, which can help save on your heating bills over time (as well as keep your home cool in the summer!).
- Exceptional Durability: Slate roofs can often last 100 years or more, far outlasting most other roofing materials, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Lower cost of repairs: Slate roofs can significantly reduce the cost of roof repairs. With slate, you can repair just the broken tiles, instead of having to repair the whole roof!
- Low Maintenance: Slate is naturally resistant to water, wind, and general weathering, meaning you won’t have to pay for roof damage and other related issues regularly.
- Resistance to Pests and Mould: Slate’s non-porous surface deters infestations and mould growth, avoiding costly frequent maintenance.
- Increased Property Value: The premium look and longevity of slate roofing can enhance your home's resale value since it is an attractive feature that buyers desire.
How Much Do Other Materials Cost?
Since slate is often seen as the best choice for a roof, it typically prices higher than other materials, but just how much more does slate cost compared to your other common options?
- Asphalt Shingles: £25 to £35 per m²
- Lead: £100 to £140 per m²
- Clay Tiles: £40 to £60 per m²
- EPDM Rubber: £80 to £100 per m²
- GRP / Fibreglass: £80 to £100 per m²
- Concrete Tiles: £40 to £50 per m²
- Metal: £40 to £70 per m²
How Can I Reduce the Cost of My Slate Roof?
Reducing the cost of a slate roof requires thoughtful choices and strategic planning; here are some of our top tips to help manage costs:
- Choose More Affordable Options: Opt for more cost-effective slate varieties like Spanish or synthetic slate instead of Welsh slate. These alternatives can provide a similar aesthetic and durability at a lower price.
- Use Reclaimed Slate: This is often cheaper than new slate and can give your roof a rustic charm. If you work with a slate professional like us here at Empire Roofing, we ensure that only high-quality reclaimed slate is used for your roof.
- Time Your Project Wisely: Scheduling your roofing project during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring, can sometimes result in lower installation costs.
- Plan Ahead for Additional Costs: Address structural reinforcements early if your roof needs to support the slate’s weight. Proper planning can help avoid costly delays or unexpected expenses during installation.
How Much Do Slate Roofs Cost to Repair?
Despite being highly durable, slate roofs can still, unfortunately, experience damage from storms, or from wear and tear, requiring repairs. The total cost of this largely depends on the type and extent of the damage to the slate, but on average, it will cost you between £150 to £230 per m².
Minor repairs, such as replacing single damaged slate tiles, can cost as little as just a few pounds, but larger repairs involving flashings or structural restoration can increase costs to upwards of £2,500. Overall, slate roofs can be cheaper to repair compared to other types of roofing material since small individual slates can be removed and reinstalled with ease.
Tips to Keep Maintenance Costs Low
- Regular Inspections: Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to catch issues early.
- Clean Gutters and Roof Surface: Remove debris and moss regularly to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage.
- Address Minor Issues Promptly: Repair small cracks or loose slates before they escalate into major problems.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation reduces moisture build-up, which can damage both the slates and the roof structure.
- Choose Quality Materials: Use high-quality slates and fittings during installation to reduce repair needs over time.
How Much Does it Cost to Remove or Replace a Slate Roof?
Replacing a slate roof can be a significant investment due to the high cost of materials and labour involved, but, on average, the cost to replace a slate roof ranges from £4,000 upwards.
Some of the main factors that influence the cost include the type and quality of the slate, the complexity of the roof design, and local labour rates. Additionally, removal and disposal of the old roof may add to the overall expense, so keep these costs in mind when planning for a slate roof removal or replacement.
Choose Empire Roofing for All Your Slate Roof Needs
Slate roofs require a great deal of expertise, and not every roofer has the expertise to install this premium choice. However, at Empire Roofing, we’re insured and qualified slate specialists, handling new installations and repairs to create beautiful, long-lasting additions to your home.
We work with a wide variety of slates, and will work with you to find the slate that you want for your roof, at the best price. If you’re looking for a new slate roof, or are in need of any repairs, please contact us today!
