There are several factors to consider when selecting the type of roof to put on your home. For many people, cost will be the most important issue. Because a slate roof requires craftsmen with experience and skill, the price could be as much as $1,000 per square – ten feet by ten feet. Cedar shakes average around $55 to $225 for each square, and the cost of an asphalt shingle roof can be from about $50 to $150 a square. If you are replacing a roof, you should first have the old shingles torn off which will add an additional cost of $30 to $50 a square.
A slate roof is extremely durable and it should last over 100 years, but you will need to weigh all aspects of your choice to determine if it is worth the extra expense. If you are planning to live in your home for many years and keep it in the family, the additional cost of a high quality roof may be money well spent. The average life of an inexpensive asphalt shingle roof may be 20 years or less while a cedar shake roof should last about 30 to 40 years.
