If you're in the market for a new roof and are envisioning a natural-looking roofing material, you have two excellent choices to select from: cedar or slate. Both options come with their own unique benefits. In case you're wondering which roof is best for your home, we've curated this comparative list to help you decide.
Is a Cedar Roof Better Than a Slate Roof?
Just as with most life decisions, the question is not necessarily about which option is better. It's about which is a better fit. Depending on what look, style and features you're searching for, you will find a perfect match in either cedar or slate roofing.
Purchasing a new roof is an investment — one that adds value to your home and provides a sense of safety for your family. We encourage you to consider the following categories carefully and thoughtfully when comparing cedar vs. slate roofs:
1. Appearance and Aesthetics
Cedar: If you’re a lover of all things natural, cedar roofing caters quite well to those envisioning an inviting woodland look. Cedar roofing is typically warmer in color than slate and goes well with almost any style of home. This kind of roof is ideal for those looking to add a hint of modest elegance to their home base.
Slate: Slate is known for its classic beauty and wide, customizable range of style options. Slate roofing comes in varying thicknesses, sizes and textures. There are many color options, including black, grey, green, red, purple and assorted tiles that feature a mix of colors. Slate roofs are the perfect complement for brick and wood homes alike.
2. Longevity and Durability
Cedar: Due to the woody cedar material, these types of roofs do have a shorter lifespan than slate. But it all depends on how long you view yourself living in your current home. Most cedar roofs last between 30 and 50 years, and a well-maintained cedar roof can save you money in the long run.
Slate: Slate is extremely durable, and it’s not far-fetched to say that with proper installation and care, a slate roof can last upwards of 100 years. Slate tiles do break easily, but as long as you’re careful, they'll likely hold up well. For those dreaming of never having to worry about replacing their roof, slate is an excellent choice.
3. Home Value and Availability
Cedar: Cedar roofing materials are easier to find and more readily available. They also present a prime opportunity to add value to your home. Whether you’re looking to impress a new homebuyer or add a new level of safety and style to your house, Cedar roofing is an excellent choice.
Slate: With the longest lifetime of any roofing material, a slate roof can add value to your home. Slate can be more difficult to find and install, but it also can be worth it — plus, we can help with that!
4. Environmental Pluses and Added Benefits
Cedar: Cedar roofs are naturally energy efficient. They help you conserve heat in the winter and keep your home cool in the summer. Cedar roofing is also known for its remarkable aging transformation. As your roof protects your home from the elements, it will begin to take on a beautiful silvery grey color. This kind of roof is impressively resilient when it comes to severe weather resistance as well. Snow, ice, winds, hurricanes — you name it — a cedar roof will keep its quality and keep you and your family safe.
Slate: Slate roofing is the most fire-resistant roofing material on the market. In fact, it’s fireproof all on its own. Slate is also environmentally friendly — due to its long life, less of it ends up in landfills. One thing to keep in mind when it comes to considering a slate roof is the weight of the stone. Slate roofs are heavy which is why it's important to make sure your home will be able to support the added weight.
How Cedar Roof Coatings Can Help
We've been in the roofing business for over 35 years. As a family-owned and operated company, we understand the importance of relationships, trustworthy work and quality experiences. That's why we offer free quotes, honest consultations and professional services.
Cedar Roof Coatings also provides roof inspections — if your roof needs maintaining, repairing or re-roofing, we're here to help in any and every way.
Still Wondering Which Roof Type Is for You?
If you live in Fairfield County, Westchester County, New York or surrounding areas, contact Cedar Roof Coatings today. We’re happy to help answer any of your questions about whether to use cedar vs. slate for your roof.