Slate is the most high-end roofing material available, with Welsh slate in particular renowned for its quality, natural beauty and longevity. That’s why those lucky enough to have slate roofs will no doubt be wondering whether the slate itself can be reused.

In this post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of reusing slate.

How long does slate last?

Slate comes from quarries where it has existed for millions of years, so it’s fair to say it won’t be going anywhere soon. As the most hard-wearing roofing material, slate can last upwards of 100 years on your roof with the right maintenance.

That said, there are a variety of other issues that may develop on your roof in that time. The nails holding your slate tiles in place can wear away as the slate outlives them. Alternatively, there could be a structural problem with your roof where the battens or rafters need replacing.

Can I keep my slate?

If you’re getting your roof replaced because of a problem with the structure or other materials wearing away, there’s no reason you can’t keep your slate. This obviously depends on the condition of the slate itself. Some tiles may have cracked which will need replacing.

Whether or not you should keep your slate depends on how much of it can be reused. If the majority of your slate tiles need replacing, it might be better to simply replace them all. It’s very difficult to find slate that’s an exact match, meaning the finished result could look a bit odd if you’re keeping half.

The benefits of reusing slate

The main benefit of reusing your slate is cost. As a premium roofing material, slate can be very expensive. Reusing it can vastly reduce the cost of your roof renewal as it will slash the price of materials on the quote.

Another benefit is that you can retain your home’s character. Rather than opting for concrete or clay tiles because of budget restraints, you can keep the same classic look that comes with slate. This will stop your home looking like the odd one out, given that most nearby properties have similar roofs.

Because of the high value of slate, it’s also worth considering where it’s going if you’re changing the style of your roof. If you’re opting for clay tiles on a reroof or just a different type of slate, your existing slate might still be in a usable condition. This is worth discussing with any roofer providing a quote, as they could reuse or sell the slate and knock some of the cost off your quote as a result.

Slate re-roofs in Wakefield

If you’re looking to get your roof replaced in Wakefield using the original materials, the team at DPR Roofing is on hand to talk you through your options.

With over 30 years’ experience in roofing and TrustMark accreditation, you can depend on us for a reliable assessment of your slate and honest advice on the best way forward. Whether the slate is reusable or needs replacing, our friendly team will provide a no-obligation quote leaving you to make an informed decision about your roof.