Slate, Tiles or Felt – What’s Best for my Roof?

If you’re completely replacing your or undertaking a new build or extension, it’s important to decide what kind of roof you want. There’s a wide choice of roofing materials, but for most people the decision comes down to slate, tiles or felt. The decision’s going to be partly based on which you think looks best, but there are definite pros and cons to each.

Slate Roofing

Slate is the strongest of the common roofing materials, and a properly constructed slate roof will last far longer than any other type. It can also give your roof a touch of class.

The downside is that slate is the most expensive roofing material, as well as the most time consuming to fit, since each slate has to be individually nailed or clipped. A slate roof needs a pitch of 30 degrees, and the slates should be fitted to battens over an underlay.

If you’re willing to accept the cost and extra time, a slate roof is an excellent choice. At the same time, there are options for reducing the expense, though at some cost of quality, by using imported slate by aggregate imitation slate.

Tiled Roofing

A tiled roof is standard throughout most of the UK. There have traditionally been regional variations in colour and design, but today most varieties of tile are available anywhere.

Tiles are a good deal cheaper than slate and, though not quite as long lasting, can be very durable. A tiled roof is also easier to repair than a slate one, with individual tiles relatively simple to take out and replace.

There are various types of tile available, including clay and concrete, and the choice of which kind to use will depend partly on the pitch and strength of the roof.

Felt Roofing

Although it can be used on pitched roofs, felt is the best material for flat roofs. A flat roof can be used for a main structure, extension or out-building, and enables the roof to be put to practical use, such as garden or terrace. On the downside, it’s more vulnerable to pooling water, and extra provision has to be made for drainage.

Felt doesn’t last as long as slate or tiles. On the other hand, it’s considerably cheaper, and if it’s well laid, with three layers, it can be more durable than most people assume.

Help with Roofing

Whichever you go for, it’s as well to get professional advice before making a final decision. You’re very welcome to get in touch for a chat about your roof.

Read our previous blog post here.