Metal Roof vs. Slate Roof: Which is Right for You?

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Aug 26, 2024 10:25:20 AM

Exploring Durability and Longevity of Metal and Slate Roofs

When it comes to durability, both metal and slate roofs stand out as robust choices. Metal roofs are known for their resistance to harsh weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and heavy snowfall. They are also highly resistant to fire, making them a safe choice for many homeowners. On average, a metal roof can last between 40 to 70 years, depending on the specific material used and the quality of installation.

Slate roofs, on the other hand, are often heralded as the gold standard in roofing materials due to their incredible longevity. A well-maintained slate roof can last over a century, with some historical buildings bearing original slate roofs that are still intact. Slate is also highly resistant to fire and weather damage, making it a reliable option. However, natural stone material can be more susceptible to cracking under certain conditions, such as heavy impact.

To enhance your roofs durability and longevity, we suggest fastening your roofing with BECK’s SCRAIL® ROOFLOC® System or the FASCO® (a BECK brand) Slate Hook System.


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Topics: Metal Roofing Fasteners, Subloc Pro, Scrail Fasteners, building, RoofLoc®, Tools, Roofing, Roofs, Metal Roofs, Slate Roofing, sheet metal, power tools, roofing system, fastener system, metal roofing system, fasco, metal structures, slate hook




Mastering the Craft: Essential Dos and Don’ts for Installing a Slate Roof

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Nov 4, 2023 7:15:00 AM

In the world of roofing material, slate is among the longest-lasting and the most durable. It's so long-lasting that some slate roofs from the 1800s are still in use today. This longevity and durability mean that slate is a very different roofing material than other types of roofing material commonly used today. Slate roofs have unique considerations that affect the installation process. If you're a contractor responsible for installing slate roofs on residences or commercial buildings, these do's and don'ts can help you find success.

Of course, working with the right tools makes all the difference. The FASCO® (a BECK member) F24 Slate Hook System is designed for slate roof installation. The system includes the Slate Hook tool for some of the fastest and most efficient slate shingle installations in the world. The FASCO® F24 Slate Hook System can be operated with just one hand, so it's perfect when working on steeply pitched roofs.


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Topics: Construction Fasteners, building, fasteners, Tools, Roofing, Slate Roofing, construction site, outdoor construction, power tools, fastening system, commercial building, construction, nail system, sheathing




Common Slate Roof Challenges

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Nov 13, 2021 8:30:00 AM

The roof is the pinnacle of a building. When it comes to the roof of your house, you want stability and longevity, but aesthetics are also important. Modern home builders and home remodelers have many choices of common roof materials, including asphalt, aluminum, copper, steel, concrete, clay, tile and wood. Slate has been a popular roof material choice for many decades but comes with its own set of challenges that must be considered. Whether you are installing a new slate roof or repairing an old slate roof, here are a few of the challenges associated with slate roofs.



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Topics: Roofing, Roofs, pneumatic tools, Slate Roofing




A Comparison of Traditional Slate and Synthetic Slate Roofs

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Mar 8, 2021 2:29:15 PM

A new roof is a big investment and homeowners want to feel their roofing investment is worthwhile by seeing a beautiful and durable roof. Slate roofing can provide this. Slate roofs are among the most durable and long-lasting on the market and provide timeless beauty. Slate roofing has reemerged in popularity recently and is being considered by more homeowners as it complements any architectural style. Synthetic slate roofing has also been introduced as an alternative to real slate. Here we take a closer look at the advantages of both options that roofing contractors and their customers should know.


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Topics: Slate Roofing




Slate Roofing Types and Style: A Guide

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Sep 5, 2020 8:13:00 AM

Even with all the advances in construction today, when properly installed, slate roofs remain one of the most long-lasting, reliable and low-maintenance roofing solutions available. They can last up to 150 years or more and will often outlive their structures.


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Topics: Slate Roofing




Slate Roof Basics: How It Works and What to Expect from It

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Jan 4, 2020 7:30:00 AM

Of all materials currently available on the market, slate roofing is one of the longest-lasting and most durable, with an expected lifespan of up to 150 years. This makes it a sizable investment for homeowners, who can expect a healthy ROI long after the initial purchase.


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Topics: Roofing, Slate Roofing




Safe Roofing Materials for Hot Climates

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Aug 18, 2019 7:13:01 AM

The roof of your home takes a lot of abuse, especially in hot climates where the sun beats down day after day with punishing heat. A poorly made roof will break down and degrade over the years. It can also allow the heat to transfer into the house more easily - causing cooling bills to be higher than necessary.


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Topics: Slate Roofing




Slate Roofs aren't Just for Tudors—Why They're Making a Comeback

Posted by Brett McCutcheon on Mar 27, 2019 3:21:20 PM

Tudor homes have a very clear English style. They are characterized by a combination look of brick and half-timbering filled in with stucco, elaborate masonry chimneys, asymmetric design, and steeply pitched gable roofs. This unique look and craftsmanship may be what makes it easily recognizable, but its use of strong, long-lasting materials is another reason why this architecture is here to stay.


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Topics: Roofing, Roofs, Slate Roofing





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