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7 key benefits of Greenstone Slate® for your roof or cladding project

by | Nov 21, 2016 | News and Information, Slate Durability, Slate Roof Benefits

Greenstone Slate® provides S1 rated slate for roof and siding application projects.

There are many benefits of using slate as your roof or wall application material. We will briefly highlight some of the key factors that make slate the best material for your next roof or stone cladding project.

Slate does not absorb water

Greenstone Vermont slate absorbs less than .0025% of its weight when submerged in water for 72 hours! It is virtually waterproof. This outstanding performance attribute contributes to Greenstone’s prestigious ASTM S1 classification, the highest rating available. The S1 grade characteristic is important to look for when selecting slate for your project as lesser quality slate may allow water to absorb into the stone, and consequently the non-S1 graded slate may deteriorate faster.

Slate does not support organic decay

Slate is an inert material that does not support mold, mildew and organic decay.Slate is inert. Since Greenstone’s slate has virtually no water absorption and will not rot.  Destructive fungi, molds and even insects go elsewhere.

Slate tolerates climate changes better than any other material

Even with the recent advances in roofing / siding material technology, the physical stability of S1 rated slate provides better protection for your home than any other material such as natural wood shingles, cedar shakes or man-made material such as synthetic slate. This is especially important in regions that experience both hot and cold weather climates.

Slate has exceptional wind tolerance

S1 slate holds up to velocity wind and rain conditions.Greenstone Slate has been independently tested in high velocity wind and rain conditions and is Miami-Dade County approved for use in hurricane zones.

Slate is 100% fireproof

Slate, a natural stone does not burn, or absorb water which expands in a fire. These characteristics automatically classify Greenstone Slate® as a Class A fire proof material.

Slate has excellent hail resistance

Greenstone Slate® is exceedingly strong. In fact, Greenstone slate at a thickness of just 3/8” has met the Class 4 requirements for hail impact resistance. This can benefit property owners by potentially lowering their insurance premiums. The increased material cost of this heavier grade slate is often offset by the insurance benefits.

Slate is cost effective and better for the environment – inside and out

A slate roof could keep five asphalt roofs out of a landfill.Slate is cost effective because its longevity saves the cost of installing five or more replacement roofs. Construction waste is also reduced which is an important goal for the environment. Slate is 100% natural stone and contains no chemicals or other substances. Therefore when it is time to dispose of it there are no environmental concerns, not to mention that slate can be recycled.

For indoor environments slate will contribute to thermal stability, relieving stress on heating and cooling systems as well as improving overall indoor comfort. This is due to its gradual warming and cooling characteristics as the days heat up and the nights cool down.

We are ready to assist you with selecting and specifying slate, advising on slate roof or cladding installation, or to help a homeowners find a contractor. Simply call 800-619-4333 or contact us here.

 

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